Redox active donor-substituted punicin derivatives

Abstract

The redox active plant material punicin from Punica granatum, 2-hydroxy-1-(pyridinium-1-yl)-5-olate, and some derivatives were modified by substitution with 2-oxochromen-4-olate moieties to give donor-substituted molecules which form distinct types of atropisomeric mesomeric betaines and tetrapolar substances. Oxidation to new negatively-charged solvatochromic quinones was achieved on treatment of these betaines with CAN, taking advantage of the stabilizing properties of the electron-donating 2-oxochromen-4-olate partial structure. The quinones can be employed in model redox reactions. Cyclovoltametric studies have been performed.