Unprecedented synthesis of a novel amino quinone ring system via oxidative decarboxylation of quinone-based alpha,alpha-amino esters.

An unusual and efficient method for the synthesis of new quinone-based amine and its derivatives from the corresponding alpha,alpha-amino ester is described. The procedure involves the quinone-based system's oxidative decarboxylation via hydride transfer throughout basic hydrolysis. This synthetic method provides, with good yields, rapid access to new potentially cytotoxic quinones.