Copper-phenanthroline catalysts for regioselective synthesis of pyrrolo[3',4':3,4]pyrrolo[1,2-a]furoquinolines/phenanthrolines and of pyrrolo[1,2-a]phenanthrolines under mild conditions.

A new series of pyrrolo[3',4':3,4]pyrrolo[1,2-a]furoquinolines/phenanthrolines and pyrrolo[1,2-a]phenanthrolines were efficiently built up from an 8-hydroxyquinoline derivative or phenanthroline via 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction involving non-stabilized azomethine ylides, generated in situ from the parent furo[3,2-h]quinoliniums/phenanthroliums, in presence of a copper(II) chloride-phenanthroline catalytic system. The methodology combines general applicability with high yields.

Search for a potent microbicidal spermicide from the isolates of Shorea robusta resin.

Background: An alarming increase in global population is the root cause of poverty, malnutrition, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and many other social problems. Microbicidal spermicides possessing dual function of contraception and STI protection can effectively combat this problem, and their development is of utmost importance at present.

Study Design: A major metabolite isolated from Shorea robusta resin was spectroscopically characterized as asiatic acid.