An approach to 3,6-disubstituted 2,5-dioxybenzoquinones via two sequential Suzuki couplings. three-step synthesis of leucomelone.

Two sequential Suzuki coupling reactions have been developed for efficient synthesis of synthetically and biologically important 3,6-disubstituted 2,5-dioxybenzoquinone architectures in a highly chemoselective controlled manner. The method serves as a key step in the total synthesis of leucomelone in three steps and in 61% overall yield.