Synthesis and RNase A inhibition study of C2-symmetric bis-isochromenyl sulfones

A new class of C2-symmetric bis-isochromene derivatives with 3,3′-linkage has been synthesized from bis-propargyl sulfones. The method involves treatment of the sulfones with triethylamine to form the isochromene derivatives presumably via the intramolecular Michael addition to the intermediate bis-allenic sulfones. Interestingly, the product expected from the Garratt–Braverman pathway was not obtained. The bis-isochromene 7d displayed RNase A inhibition activity, much stronger than the isochromene 8 and bis-isocoumarin 9.