9-Propyl-10-azacyclododecan-12-olide, a minor component of the defensive secretion of the Mexican bean beetle (Epilachna varivestis) was synthesized via a reductive amination of methyl 9-ketododecanoate (3) followed by lactonization. This azamacrolide proved deterrent to ants, but was significantly less active than the pupal defensive secretion itself.
9-Propyl-10-azacyclododecan-12-olide, a minor component of the defensive secretion of the Mexican bean beetle (Epilachna varivestis) was synthesized via a reductive amination of methyl 9-ketododecanoate (3) followed by lactonization. This azamacrolide proved deterrent to ants, but was significantly less active than the pupal defensive secretion itself.