An improved synthesis of α,β-unsaturated nitrones relevant to the stephacidins and analogs thereof

A new method is reported for the synthesis of the α,β-unsaturated nitrone moiety characteristic of the stephacidin/avrainvillamide family of bioactive prenylated indole alkaloids. Application to the synthesis of stephacidin analogs and a potential biological probe are showcased.A new method is reported for the synthesis of the α,β-unsaturated nitrone moiety characteristic of the stephacidin/avrainvillamide family of bioactive prenylated indole alkaloids. Application to the synthesis of stephacidin analogs and a potential biological probe are showcased. © 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved