Synthesis and biological evaluation of gallic acid analogs

A novel and efficient synthesis of pyrogallol moiety through a copper(I)-mediated C-O bond forming reaction is described. In particular, syntheses of 3,4,5-trihydroxyphenethyl alcohol and its methyl derivative are reported. Particular attention to dimethyl carbonate as an eco-friendly solvent/reactant has been paid, in order to improve the eco-compatibility of the whole synthetic pathway. Furthermore, the genotoxicity, cytotoxicity and the antioxidant activity of 3,4,5-trihydroxyphenethyl alcohol and its methyl derivative have been investigated.