Synthesis and C-H Functionalization Chemistry of Thiazole-Semicoronenediimides (TsCDIs) and -Coronenediimides (TCDIs).

Coronenediimide (CDI) derivatives have a planar structure, a reasonably high electron affinity, and a rigid and extended delocalized π-system. Therefore, this core and variants thereof may be promising building blocks for the synthesis of electron transport materials. Herein, we have synthesized thiazole-semicoronenediimides (TsCDIs) and -coronenediimides (TCDIs) by a two-step process from a perylenediimide (PDI) precursor. Conditions for C-H arylation and heteroarylation of the thiazole moiety of this core were developed and were successfully used for the synthesis of dimer, triad, and polymeric materials. The optical and electrochemical properties of these materials and their monomers were examined as a function of side-chain modification and π-extension. With their broad optical absorption and low reduction potentials, these materials could be candidates as organic semiconductors for applications in OFETs and as nonfullerene acceptors.

Stereochemical Complexity in Oxocarbenium-Ion-Initiated Cascade Annulations for the Synthesis of the ABCD Core of Mattogrossine.

Mattogrossine is an indole alkaloid isolated from Strychnos mattogrossensis that contains an unusual tetrahydrofuran ring with a concomitant hemiacetal in its structure. While tetrahydrofuran intermediates have been used in the synthesis of other strychnos alkaloids, no investigations have been performed into the synthesis of alkaloids containing this structure. We have developed an oxocarbenium-ion-initiated cascade annulation that provides us access to the ABCD ring structure of mattogrossine.

An Iminium Ion Cascade Annulation Strategy for the Synthesis of Akuammiline Alkaloid Pentacyclic Core Structures.

The akuammiline alkaloids are a family of indole monoterpene natural products known for their polycyclic cage-like structures. An iminium ion cascade annulation approach was developed, simultaneously synthesizing both the C and D rings of these natural products by annulation onto a protected indole ring. This reaction allowed the synthesis of a key tetracyclic intermediate toward these natural products. This tetracycle was used for the synthesis of the pentacyclic methanoquinolizidine core present in such alkaloids as akuammiline and strictamine as well as the pentacyclic furoindoline core found in pseudoakuammigine.