Synthesis of 4′-epi-iodo-4′-deoxy-daunorubicin, a potential cancer radiotherapeutic agent

We have prepared 4′-epi-iodo-4′-deoxy-daunorubicin (IDDNR)(1), a doxorubicin analog, via a 5-step synthesis involving a protected daunorubicin triflate derivative (4). This triflate derivative will allow the facile and regiospecific nucleophilic preparation of I-125 or Br-80m labelled analogs of IDDNR. Auger electron-emitting I-125- or Br-80m-labelled analogs of IDDNR may have potential as cancer radiotherapeutic agents.