New methodology for the synthesis of thiobarbiturates mediated by manganese(III) acetate.

A three step synthesis of various thiobarbiturate derivatives 17-24 was established. The first step is mediated by Mn(OAc)₃, in order to generate a carbon-carbon bond between a terminal alkene and malonate. Derivatives 1-8 were obtained in moderate to good yields under mild conditions. This key step allows synthesis of a wide variety of lipophilic thiobarbiturates, which could be tested for their anticonvulsive or anesthesic potential.