Derivatives of Khellinonequinone and their Aflatoxigenic Activity
Nitration of khellinone leads to the formation of a small amount of 3-nitrokhellinone and 5-acetyl-6-hydroxybenzofuran-4.7-dione (khellinonequinone) as a main product. The latter compound reacts with primary amines to give the corresponding imino compounds. Reaction of khellinone with o-phenylenediamine involves condensation followed by cyclisation. While on the other hand treating with phenyl hydrazines gives the phenyl hydrazone. The pyrazolobenzofuran derivative was obtained by the action of hydrazine hydrate on khellinonequinone. Finally the reaction with malononitrile leads to the formation of the ylidene derivative. Two quinone derivatives showed a weak effect on mycelial growth and aflatoxin formation.