We
have prepared a library of functionalized quinolines through
the magnesiation of 7-chloroquinolines under mild conditions, employing
both batch and continuous flow conditions. The preparation involved
the generation of mixed lithium-magnesium intermediates, which were
reacted with different electrophiles. Mixed lithium-zinc reagents
allowed the synthesis of halogenated and arylated derivatives. Some
of the synthesized 4-carbinol quinolines have shown interesting antiproliferative
properties, their hydroxyl group being a suitable amino group bioisostere.
We also report a two-step approach for optically active derivatives.