Synthesis of hydroxystilbenes and their derivatives via Heck reaction

A group of differently substituted acetoxy- and methoxystilbenes were synthesised via Heck reaction. A comparison between the use--as coupling reagents--of iodobenzene derivatives and diazonium salts was performed. A successful microwave-assisted demethylation by pyridine hydrochloride of some methoxystilbenes was carried out.