Efficient access to the core of the strychnos, aspidosperma and iboga alkaloids. A short synthesis of norfluorocurarine

Abstract

An efficient anionic bicyclization of tryptamine-derived Zincke aldehydes forms the basis for a three-step route to the tetracyclic ABCE core of many Strychnos, Aspidosperma, and Iboga alkaloids. This powerful reaction is showcased in a five-step synthesis of the Strychnos alkaloid norfluorocurarine from tryptamine and pyridine. Copyright © 2009 American Chemical Society.