Synthesis of a Biochemically Important Aldehyde, 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylglycolaldehyde

3,4-Dihydroxyphenylglycolaldehyde (DOPEGAL) is an important precursor of the major brain metabolites of noradrenaline, 3,4-dihydroxyphenyglycol, and 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol. Methods for the synthesis of DOPEGAL have been developed. The α-hydroxy and masked aldehyde groups were introduced simultaneously in one step. This method dan also be used for preparation of other metabolites of catecholamines.