Overcoming steric effects in the coupling reaction of alkyloxycarbonyloxymethyl (AOCOM) halides with phenols: an efficient synthesis of AOCOM phenolic prodrugs

Steric hindrance is a key factor in the coupling reaction of AOCOM halides with phenols. Sterically unhindered alkoxy groups favor the formation of acylated phenol. Under phase-transfer conditions, alkylated phenol is favored regardless of steric hindrance.