Regioselective synthesis of anthraquinones via(arene)chromium tricarbonyl complexes

Abstract

(±)-3-Deoxyrabelomycin (2) and the linear anthraquinone (3), an intermediate for synthesis of de(methoxycarbonyl)aklavinone (5), have been synthesized by regioselective lithiation of (η6-arene)chromium tricarbonyl complexes.