An Asymmetric Synthesis of (+)-Isostrychnine Based on Catalytic Asymmetric Tandem Double Michael Addition.

Herein, a concise asymmetric synthesis of (+)-isostrychnine is achieved in nine longest-linear steps with a 16% overall yield. The key features of this synthesis include the catalytic asymmetric tandem double Michael addition of a tryptamine-derived oxindole to an alkynone to facilely forge the A/B/C ring framework, a one-pot intramolecular dehydrative condensation/lactamization reaction to efficiently establish the E/G ring system, and an allylic diazene rearrangement to introduce the pivotal olefin for the subsequent intramolecular Heck reaction.