A novel protecting group methodology for syntheses using nitroxides

The methoxyamine group represents an ideal protecting group for the nitroxide moiety. It can be easily and selectively introduced in high yield (typically >90%) to a range of functionalised nitroxides using FeSO4 center dot 7H(2)O and H2O2 in DMSO. Its removal is readily achieved under mild conditions in high yield (70-90%) using mCPBA in a Cope-type elimination process.