The metalation of rigid diphenyl methane derivatives has been studied,
aiming at the synthesis of 2-alkylthio-2,2-diaryl substituted acetic
acids esters, a class of compounds with a potential antimuscarinic act
ivity. Mixed metal bases have shown to be necessary in order to obtain
the desired compounds with a good regiocontrol. (C) 1998 Elsevier Sci
ence Ltd. All rights reserved.