Intramolecular hydroarylation of 4-benzofuranyl alkynoates using Pd (OAc) 2 as catalyst took place selectively and efficiently, giving angular furocoumarin derivatives in high yields. The parent angelicin was obtained in 80% yield by this method. The starting 4-benzofuranyl alkynoates were easily accessible from readily available 4-hydroxybenzofurans and alkynoic acids.
