Copper-catalysed radical cascade reaction of -(2-oxo-2-phenylethyl) substituted 2-pyridones with styrene to access 1,6-carboannulated 2-pyridone scaffolds.

Herein, we present that treating -(2-oxo-2-phenylethyl) substituted 2-pyridones with styrenes in DMSO/HO at 120 °C affords 1,6-carboannulated 2-pyridone scaffolds with up to 79% yield. This protocol provides a simple and efficient method for obtaining complicated bicyclic 2-pyridones through a radical cascade reaction. Additionally, we have successfully synthesized 27 target compounds, which confirms the practicality and wide applicability of the proposed reaction.

Functional characterization and protein engineering of a O-methyltransferase involved in benzylisoquinoline alkaloid biosynthesis of Stephania tetrandra.

Benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (BIAs) are the primary active components of Stephania tetrandra. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying BIA biosynthesis in S. tetrandra remain poorly understood.