Polylithiated derivatives of salicylic and oligosalicylic acids can be generated by means of the halogento-metal exchange reaction. Dehydrobromination and other byproducts can be kept to a minimum by working with the preformed lithium salts which are soluble in THF. Even base sensitive salicylic acids such as 6-bromolasalocid acid can be functionalized under these conditions.
