posted on 2003-11-19, 00:00authored byAaron C. Kinsman, Michael A. Kerr
The total synthesis of (+)-hapalindole Q has been achieved. The key step is a Diels−Alder
reaction mediated by MacMillan's organocatalyst to provide the critical intermediate with high enantioselectivity (93% ee). This step establishes the proper arrangement of the required four contiguous
stereocenters, including the quaternary center, and represents the first successful application of an
enantioselective organomediated Diels−Alder reaction in total synthesis.