The biomimetic synthesis of balsaminone A and ellagic acid via oxidative dimerization

The application of oxidative dimerization for the biomimetic synthesis of balsaminone A and ellagic acid is described. Balsaminone A is synthesized via the oxidative dimerization of 1,2,4-trimethoxynaphthalene under anhydrous conditions using CAN, PIDA in BF₃ ·OEt₂ or PIFA in BF₃ ·OEt₂ in 7-8% yields over 3 steps. Ellagic acid is synthesized from its biosynthetic precursor gallic acid, in 83% yield over 2 steps.