Synthesis of Catechins via Thiourea/AuCl₃-Catalyzed Cycloalkylation of Aryl Epoxides

Abstract

A diversity-oriented approach for the synthesis of structurally diverse catechins was achieved in good yields via thiourea/AuCl(3)/AgOTf-catalyzed annulations of aryl epoxides under mild conditions. This new protocol provides a highly efficient entry to a library of catechins-derived natural products, notably anti-HIV agent 8-C-ascorbyl-(-)-epigallocatechin.