Synthesis of γ-oxyprotoporphyrin IX and pterobiline (biliverdin IXγ)
Abstract
The γ-meso-hydroxy-derivative of protopor-phyrin IX has been synthesised by condensation of a bis(formylpyrroly) ketone and a dispyrrolylmethane; the iron complex underwent oxidative ring-opening to give biliverdin IXγ(ptrobiline), the blue -green butterfly pigment, thus providing a modle for its biosynthesis.