Studies toward the total synthesis of the variolins: rapid entry to the core structure

The pyrido[3′,2′:4,5]pyrrolo[1,2-c]pyrimidine core structure of the variolins has been synthesized in three steps from commercially available materials. The key reaction involves the deoxygenation and concomitant cyclization of a triarylmethanol using the combination of triethylsilane and trifluoroacetic acid. Introduction of amine functionality as required for the natural products has been achieved in two steps.Regan J. Anderson and Jonathan C. Morrishttp://www.elsevier.com/wps/find/journaldescription.cws_home/233/description#descriptio