A convenient extension of the Wessely–Moser rearrangement for the synthesis of substituted alkylaminoflavones as neuroprotective agents in vitro

A series of 8-alkylamino-5,7-dihydroxyflavones was prepared from chrysine via a seven step sequence. The synthesis of their 6-alkylamino isomers could be subsequently accomplished through a convenient extension of the Wessely–Moser rearrangement. These compounds were found to be efficient neuroprotective agents in vitro.