The first total syntheses of Palmarumycin BG1–3, BG5–6, C1 and Guignardin E were achieved. These compounds displayed significant inhibition activities against HCT116, U87-MG, HepG2, BGC823 and PC9 cell lines.

4-(2,2-Difluoroethylamino)-3-(heteroarylmethyl)-5,5-disubstituted furan-2(5H)-ones were regioselectively synthesized via C-3 alkylation of 4-(2,2-difluoroethylamino)-5,5-disubstituted furan-2(5H)-ones with heteroarylmethyl chlorides using Cs2CO3 as a base in 62–85% yields. Their structures were characterized by 1H and 13C NMR, HRMS (ESI), and X-ray diffraction. This C-alkylation selectivity was rationalized by bulky hindrance and electron-withdrawing effects.