Regioselective synthesis of flavone derivatives via DMAP-catalyzed cyclization of o-alkynoylphenols

A catalytic amount of DMAP promoted cyclization of o-alkynoylphenols via a 6-endo cyclization mode leading to flavone derivatives in high yields without forming 5-exo cyclized aurone derivatives. Utilizing this method, methoxy substituted flavone and alkyl substituted γ-benzopyranone derivatives were synthesized.