Synthesis and spectroscopic properties of two classes of 5,6-dihydrothymidine derivatives. Action on the Ehrlich's ascites cells thymidine kinase.

Trans (+) and (-) 6-alkoxy-5-bromo-5,6 dihydrothymidine and trans (+) and (-) 6-alkoyloxy-5-bromo-5,6-dihydrothymidine compounds have been prepared. The synthesis of these substances (alkoxy : methoxy, ethoxy, butyloxy and isoamyloxy and alkoyloxy : acetoxy and bensovloxy) is described. Diastereoisomers of all products have been isolated by thin layer chromatography and their spectroscopic properties (IR, UV, NMR, mass spectrometry) studied. These compounds have been shown to be competitive inhibitors of Ehrlich's ascites cells thymidine kinase with respect ot thymidine.