Abstract
A new synthesis of chromones and flavones based on the reaction of 2-hydroxy-1-acetonaphthone (1) with cinammonitriles (2 a-h) is described. Structures of the compounds are established by chemical and spectral data. This synthetic approach appears general in its applicability. It has been applied to the synthesis of a series of polycyclic chromone and flavone compounds containing the naphthalene and pyrene ring systems that hold promise as agents for the chemo preventation of cancer.