Sc(OTf)3-Catalyzed Synthesis of Symmetrical Dithioacetals and Bisarylmethanes Using Nitromethane as a Methylene Source

Use of nitromethane as an electrophilic methylene source for the synthesis of symmetrical dithioacetals and bisarylmethanes has been showcased using Sc(OTf)(3) as a catalyst. The procedure allows straightforward access to the densely functionalized dithioacetals and bisarylmethanes under mild conditions. Additionally, the method has been applied for the synthesis of antimalarial tetramethyl mellotojaponin C and anticancer dimeric phloroglucinol derivative.