Efficient Total Synthesis of 5-Methoxypsoralen.

A rapid and efficient synthesis of 5-methoxypsoralen, furocoumarin commonly used in dermatology for the treatment by PUVA therapy of skin diseases, is described using cheap and easily available starting materials. An alternative method to synthesize 7-(2-oxoethoxy)coumarin, the key step to generate the furan ring, is suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]