Synthesis and in vitro phototoxicity of 5-(arylmethylene)-1,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo[2.2.2]octan-6-ones, a class of potential sunscreens.

A series of 5-(arylmethylene)-1,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo[2.2.2]octan-6- ones was prepared by reaction of (+)-1,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo[2.2.2]octan-6-one with aromatic aldehydes in an alkaline medium. These compounds can be considered as potential UVB or UVA sunscreens. In vitro phototoxicity tests (photohemolysis and Candida albicans) showed that they exhibit in general a low phototoxicity level.