Synthesis of novel tetracyclic chromenes through carbanion chemistry of 4-methyl coumarins

Various substituents were introduced onto the methyl group in 4-methyl coumarins through lithiation, followed by reactions with a wide range of electrophiles. The presence of an alkoxy group on 6′-phenyl ring was found to be pivotal for the success of this reaction. This procedure provided a convenient synthetic pathway to elaborate the methyl group of 4-methylcoumarins. Application of this methodology was showcased with the synthesis of biologically important novel tetracyclic chromene ring systems (n = 1–3).