藤田 正博

With a number of biologically active members, 2‐aroylchromones are valuable synthetic targets. A direct route towards 2‐aroylchromones from 2‐(methylsulfonyl)chromones and aldehydes via NHC‐catalyzed C‐C bond formation was developed. Yields of the synthesized 2‐aroylchromones were up to 85%. Chromones with angioprotective or antibacterial properties were easily synthesized using the method developed. Additionally, the synthetic utility of the afforded chromones was demonstrated by using them to synthesize the anticancer compound wrightiadione and analogues of it.

A zwitterion, an ion pair where cation and anion are covalently tethered, is known to be a type of salt. These ions have not been recognised as interesting, but they are physicochemically unique and fascinating ions. In the present review, some functional zwitterions derived from ionic liquids are mentioned to emphasise the usefulness of the tethering of the component cations and anions of ionic liquids. Basic properties, advantages and disadvantages after the functional design of zwitterions, and some applications are summarised.