Self-condensation of activated malonic acid half esters: a model for the decarboxylative Claisen condensation in polyketide biosynthesis

The reaction of a malonic acid half oxyester with a N-hydroxysuccinimidyl ester-forming reagent resulted in self-condensation to provide the corresponding 1,3-acetonedicarboxylic acid diester. This new method does not require a divalent metal chelator or a coordinating solvent for successful condensation.