Shorter synthesis of trifunctionalized cryptophane-A derivatives.

Efficient syntheses of trisubstituted cryptophane-A derivatives that are versatile host molecules for many applications are reported. Trihydroxy cryptophane was synthesized in six or seven steps with yields as high as 9.5%. By a different route, trihydroxy cryptophane modified with three propargyl, allyl, or benzyl protecting groups was synthesized with yields of 4.1-5.8% in just six steps. Hyperpolarized (129)Xe NMR chemical shifts of 57-65 ppm were measured for these trisubstituted cryptophanes.