SYNTHESIS OF C2-ELONGATED POLYUNSATURATED FATTY-ACIDS

The synthesis by a modified malonic ester procedure of C2-elongated po lyunsaturated fatty acids from their natural precursors was described. Using the suggested scheme, (7Z,11Z,14Z)-7,11,14-eicosatrienoic, (8Z, 11Z,14Z,17Z)-8,11,14,17-eicosatetraenoic, (5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z)-5,8,11,1 4,17-eicosapentaenoic, (8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z)-8,11,14,17-docosatetraenoic, ( 7Z,10Z,13Z,16Z,19Z)-7,10,13,16,19-docos and 2Z,15Z,18Z,21Z)-6,9,12,15, 18,21-tetracosahexaenoic acids were synthesized. Their structures were confirmed by GC, UV, and MS data, which coincided with those of natur al compounds. The target compounds were shown to be free from by-produ cts, which could result from Z-E isomerization or migration of double bonds. The overall yields of the four-step synthesis of C2-elongated p olyenoic acids were 25-30%.