Microwave assisted synthesis of N-arylphthalamic acids with hyperlipidemic activity

A series of substituted N-arylphthalamic acids 3a-i has been synthesized by the reaction of phthalic anhydride 1 and aryl- or heterocyclic amines 2a-i, in the absence of solvents, in a domestic microwave oven. The formation of nine N-arylphthalamic acids was accomplished in 1-3 min giving excellent yields for compounds 3a-g, but moderate yield of compounds 3h and 3i, respectively. Compounds 3h and 3i are new. Interestingly, N-arylphthalamic acids 3a-i induced hyperlipidemia in Swiss white mice and also increased animals' body weight.