Syntheses of (-)-hygrine and (-)-norhygrine via Wacker oxidation

Abstract

Hygrine is an important biosynthetic intermediate for tropane alkaloids. A synthesis of (-)-hygrine starting from L-proline is described. The acetonyl side chain of hygrine was fashioned through the Wittig reaction followed by regioselective Wacker oxidation. In addition, this Letter provides the first synthesis of (-)-norhygrine.