Synthesis of gem-difluoro-avermectin derivatives: potent anthelmintic and anticonvulsant agents.
Academic Article
Overview
abstract
A series of gem-difluoro-avermectin derivatives was synthesized from the corresponding ketones at positions 4", 4', 13, and 23 using diethylaminosulfur trifluoride (DAST). These fluorinated avermectins exhibit potent antiparasitic activity in a new Haemonchus contortus larval assay and are equipotent to ivermectin. In addition, 23-gem-difluoro-ivermectin displays useful anticonvulsant activity in mouse models.