Synthesis of clyclopropyl analogs of stilbene and stilbenediol as possible antiestrogens

Conformationally rigid analogs of stilbene and stilbenediol were prepared via gem-dichlorocyclopropyl precursors utilizing two different synthetic methods: a two-phase catalytic method and an organomercurial method. These precursors were reduced to the corresponding cyclopropyl analogs using sodium and methanol. All compounds are being tested to discriminate between estrogenic and antiestrogenic ability, to determine estrogen binding ability, and to evaluate tissue culture anticancer activity.