Intramolecular direct arylation in an A,C-functionalized calix[4]arene.

A recently developed efficient method for intramolecular direct arylation is employed on a doubly functionalized calix[4]arene fixed in the cone conformation. The reaction takes place in high yield leading to meta substituted calix[4]arenes. The functionalities are located at two opposite aromatic rings and the two possible diastereomers are obtained in a 1:1 ratio. Full sets of data including crystal structures for both isomers are presented. The NMR data reveal that even at temperatures up to 120 degrees C both isomers are fixed in a flattened cone conformation with the substituted aromatic units pointing outwards.