Efficient and stereoselective dimerization of pyrroloindolizine derivatives inspired by a hypothesis for the biosynthesis of complex myrmicarin alkaloids

J Org Chem. 2007 Dec 21;72(26):10065-74. doi: 10.1021/jo701981q. Epub 2007 Nov 17.

Abstract

Pyrroloindolizine derivatives participate in efficient and stereoselective homo- and heterodimerization reactions upon treatment with Brønsted or Lewis acids. The distinctive ability of pyrroloindolizines to act as azafulvenium ion precursors provides direct access to both heptacyclic and hexacyclic dimeric products. The inherent reactivity of these structures suggests a concise synthesis of complex myrmicarin alkaloids, via dimerization of pyrroloindolizines, and may have implications for the biosynthesis of these intriguing alkaloids.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Dimerization
  • Heterocyclic Compounds, 3-Ring / chemical synthesis*
  • Heterocyclic Compounds, 3-Ring / chemistry
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Pyrroles / chemical synthesis*
  • Pyrroles / chemistry
  • Stereoisomerism

Substances

  • Heterocyclic Compounds, 3-Ring
  • Pyrroles
  • myrmicarin
  • pyrroloindolizine