The Total Synthesis of (±)‐Fortucine and a Revision of the Structure of Kirkine

Abstract

A molecular zipper: The total synthesis of the natural product fortucine relies on a radical cascade process initiated by the generation of a nitrogen-centered (amidyl) radical (see picture). The procedure is concise, and tin-free, as well as stereo- and regioselective. This synthesis has enabled the correction of the structure of kirkine, and the strategy represents a general and rapid entry into the galanthan framework.