Hydrogenation of plant polyalkoxybenzene derivatives: convenient access to coenzyme Q0 analogues

A technologically advanced protocol has been developed for converting plant allyl(polyalkoxy)benzenes to methyl- and propyl(polyalkoxy)benzenes being intermediates in the syntheses of coenzyme Q₀ analogues. The key stage of allyl and benzaldehyde moieties hydrogenation was carried out in a periodical autoclave mode on highly porous ceramic block Pd-catalysts. These catalysts possess large surface area, low hydraulic resistance, significant thermal and mechanical stabililty, multiple cycling and easy regeneration, which can dramatically reduce Pd consumption.