Synthesis of a mitochondria-targeted spin trap using a novel Parham-type cyclization

A new cyclic nitrone spin trap, [4-(3'.3'-dibutyl-2'-oxy-3'H-isoindol-5'-yloxy)butyl]triphenylphosphonium bromide (MitoSpin), bearing a lipophilic cation has been prepared by a route that involves a novel Parham-type lithiation-cyclization of an isocyanate to give the isoindolinone core. MitoSpin accumulates in a membrane potential dependent way in energized mitochondria and its oxidation could potentially be used in the study of oxidative stress resulting from reactive oxygen species generated in mitochondria. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.