Danishefsky's diene

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Danishefsky's diene is a type of organic compound that is used in organic chemistry as a diene in Diels-Alder reactions. It was first synthesized by Samuel J. Danishefsky, a renowned American chemist, and hence, it bears his name.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "Danishefsky's diene" is derived from the name of its discoverer, Samuel J. Danishefsky, and the term "diene", which is a type of organic compound that contains two alternating double bonds.

Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]

Danishefsky's diene is a cyclohexadiene derivative. It has a molecular formula of C9H10O2 and a molecular weight of 150.18 g/mol. The compound is characterized by its unique structure, which consists of a six-membered ring with two double bonds and an ester group attached to it.

Synthesis[edit | edit source]

The synthesis of Danishefsky's diene involves the reaction of dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate with isopropylidene malonate in the presence of a base. The reaction proceeds via a Michael addition followed by an aldol condensation.

Applications[edit | edit source]

Danishefsky's diene is primarily used in Diels-Alder reactions. It acts as a diene, reacting with various dienophiles to form six-membered rings. The resulting products are often used in the synthesis of complex organic molecules, including natural products and pharmaceuticals.

Related Terms[edit | edit source]

  • Diels-Alder reaction: A chemical reaction between a diene and a dienophile, resulting in a six-membered ring.
  • Diene: An organic compound that contains two alternating double bonds.
  • Dienophile: A compound that can react with a diene in a Diels-Alder reaction.
  • Michael addition: A reaction where a nucleophile adds to an α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compound.
  • Aldol condensation: A reaction where an enol or enolate ion reacts with a carbonyl compound to form a β-hydroxy aldehyde or ketone, followed by dehydration to give a conjugated enone.
Danishefsky's diene Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD