Synthesis and antioxidant activity of selected 4-methylcoumarins

A series of selected 4-methylcoumarins (4-methyl-2H-1-benzopyran-2-ones) were synthesised and tested for radical-scavenging ability using the stable 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical, and for reducing power ability with a test based on the reduction of ferric to ferrous cation. All studied compounds showed activity comparable to Trolox (6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid), an already known antioxidant, which is used as standard in most of the testing methods. Observations from the study were made with regard to structural features that regulated the behaviour of the compounds. The antioxidant activity of some 4-methylcoumarin representatives is presented here for the first time and extends our knowledge of the range of valuable biological activities and possible roles in therapy and for food preservation associated with this group of compounds. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.