CC BY-ND-NC 4.0 · SynOpen 2019; 03(04): 148-156
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1690336
paper
Copyright with the author(s) (2019) The author(s)

Total Synthesis of Bacterial 5-(3-Indolyl)oxazole Alkaloids: Pimprinols A–C

,
Róbert Kormány
,
András Dancsó
,
,
Further Information

Publication History

Received: 16 October 2019

Accepted after revision: 05 November 2019

Publication Date:
28 November 2019 (online)

 


This paper is dedicated to the memory of Professor József Reiter.

Abstract

Pimprinols A, B, and C are bacterial 5-(3-indolyl)oxazole alkaloids that have been isolated from Streptomyces sp. Lv3–13. In this paper, we report a new synthesis of pimprinol A and the first total synthesis of pimprinol B and pimprinol C. In addition, antipodes of the naturally occurring pimprinols A and C, as well as the racemates of these two alkaloids were also prepared. In the pivotal step, the 1,3-oxazole ring was constructed by a Nicolaou’s modified Robinson–Gabriel cyclization.


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Oxazole ring-containing compounds are significant representatives of natural products and synthetic pharmaceuticals.[1–5] The bacterial alkaloids pimprinols A–C [(R)-1, 2, (R)-3; Figure [1]], which belong to the 5-(3-indolyl)oxazole family, were isolated from the rare actinomycetes, Streptomyces sp. Lv3–13 by Müller and co-workers in 2012.[6] All three extracted alkaloids [(R)-1, 2, (R)-3] were described as yellow oils and their structures were elucidated by UV, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, and by HRMS (ESI, +) analysis. The absolute configurations of pimprinol A [(R)-1] and C [(R)-3] were determined by Mosher ester analysis.

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Figure 1 Chemical structures of pimprinols A–C

The only known synthesis of pimprinol A [(R)-1] was described in 2014 by Wu et al. (Scheme [1]).[7] In this one-pot method, compound (R)-1 was prepared by treatment of 1-(1H-indol-3-yl)ethanone (4) with l-threonine (5; 2 equiv) in the presence of I2 in DMSO at 110 °C. The product was obtained in 70% yield and 96% enantiomeric excess as a pale-brown solid. The alkaloids pimprinol B (2) and C [(R)-3] have not yet been synthesized.

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Scheme 1 Wu’s synthesis of natural (+)-pimprinol A

Herein, we would like to report a new total synthesis of pimprinol A [(R)-1] and the first total synthesis of pimprinol B (2) and C [(R)-3]. In addition, antipodes and racemates of pimprinol A and C were also prepared.

Initially, the synthesis of racemic pimprinol A [(rac)-1] was investigated starting from the easily available dl-alanine [(rac)-6; Scheme [2]]. 2-Chloro-1-methyl-2-oxoethyl acetate [(rac)-7] was prepared as previously reported.8–10 Reaction of (rac)-6 with NaNO2 in glacial acetic acid, followed by treatment with an excess of SOCl2, afforded compound (rac)-7. Intermediate (rac)-9 was obtained by acylation of tryptamine (8) with (rac)-7 in the presence of Et3N in 88% yield. Oxidation of (rac)-9 with 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone (DDQ) in a THF–water solvent mixture at 0 °C led to the corresponding acylamino-ketone (rac)-10 in excellent yield. The Robinson–Gabriel cyclization of acylamino-ketone (rac)-10 with propylphosponic anhydride (T3P®) under microwave conditions[11] was unsuccessful, with the starting material being decomposed. Subsequently, the ring-closure reaction was attempted using Nicolaou’s protocol with POCl3 in pyridine at room temperature.[12] In this reaction, the desired 1,3-oxazole derivative (rac)-11 was obtained in 80% yield. Removal of the acetyl group by alkaline hydrolysis furnished the target molecule, racemic pimprinol A [(rac)-1], in almost quantitative yield.

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Scheme 2 Synthesis of racemic and optically active pimprinol A and C

By following the above synthetic route, natural (+)-pimprinol A [(R)-1] and its enantiomer (–)-pimprinol A [(S)-1] were prepared starting from (R)-alanine [(R)-6] and (S)-alanine [(S)-6], respectively. It is important to note that the substitution of the amino group in alanine occurs by double inversion.[10] [13] Natural (+)-pimprinol A [(R)-1] was obtained in four steps from known (1R)-2-chloro-1-methyl-2-oxoethyl­ acetate [(R)-7] in 60% overall yield and in 98% ee. (–)-Pimprinol A [(S)-1] was synthesized from the corresponding acid chloride (S)-7 in a similar overall yield (61%). The enantiomeric purity was 98% also in the final product, which was determined by chiral chromatographic separation on a polysaccharide stationary phase (column: 150 × 4.6 mm Lux 5 μm amylose-1, temperature: 20 °C, mobile phase: acetonitrile with 0.1 % ethanolamine).

Racemic pimprinol C [(rac)-3] was prepared from the known 1-(chlorocarbonyl)propyl acetate [(rac)-13][8] [14] by using an analogous procedure in four steps in 88% overall yield (Scheme 2). The natural alkaloid pimprinol C [(R)-3] and its enantiomer [(S)-3] were synthesized in a similar manner starting from (1R)- [(R)-13][15] and (1S)-1-(chlorocarbonyl)propyl acetate [(S)-13],[16] respectively. The latter compounds were obtained in more than 80% yield and in 98% ee.

Next, the synthesis of pimprinol B (2) was studied from two readily available oxazole derivatives; methyl [5-(1H-indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl] acetate (21) and the natural product labradorin 5 (22; Scheme [3]). First, tryptamine (8) was converted into compounds 21 and 22 through a three-step procedure involving acylation with the appropriate acyl chlorides, DDQ mediated oxidation, and T3P®-promoted Robinson–Gabriel cyclodehydration under microwave conditions in a vent-and-reseal vessel. The reaction of ester 21 with MeMgI or MeLi was unsuccessful. In both cases the starting material was recovered. It is hypothesized that the reaction of oxazole 21 with Grignard or organolithium reagent produced an inactive dianion by deprotonation of both the indole NH and the active methylene group. Water addition to, or epoxidation of, the isopropylidene double bond in labradorin 5 (22) was unsuccessful with various reagents, such as H2SO4/H2O at room temperature,[17] polyphosphoric acid (PPA) at 90 °C,[18] Hg(OAc)2/THF–H2O then NaOH/NaBH4,[19] HCl/THF–H2O at reflux,[20] and meta-chloroperoxybenzoic acid (mCPBA) at 0 °C.[21] Finally, upon treatment of labradorin 5 (22) with 50% aqueous H2SO4 in boiling 1,4-dioxane[22] for 4 days, pimprinol B (2) was produced with 15% conversion and in 11% isolated yield. The main component of the residue was the starting material, with some decomposition detected. It is assumed that the poor reactivity of the isopropylidene double bond in compound 22 is caused by extensive conjugation.

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Scheme 3 Attempts at synthesis of pimprinol B (2)

Finally, a more efficient total synthesis of pimprinol B (2) was elaborated starting from commercially available 3-hydroxy-3-methylbutanoic acid (23; Scheme [4]). Protection of the tertiary hydroxyl group of 23 with acetyl chloride afforded carboxylic acid 24.[23] The latter intermediate and tryptamine (8) were coupled according to Methods A and B. First carbonyldiimidazole (CDI) as coupling agent was used in the amide formation but this resulted in the required product in only moderate yield. However, applying 1-[bis(dimethylamino)-methylene]-1H-1,2,3-triazolo[4,5-b]pyridinium 3-oxide hexafluorophosphate (HATU) and Hünig’s base, furnished the corresponding amide 25 in good yield. Although Method B resulted in a higher yield, the final product was contaminated with HATU, which was difficult to eliminate. Subsequent oxidation of intermediate 25 with DDQ in a THF–water solvent mixture provided β-keto amide 26. Reaction of compound 26 with POCl3 in pyridine, followed by alkaline hydrolysis of the ester group generated pimprinol B in 17% (Method A) and 30% (Method B) overall yields.

Pimprinols A–C were obtained as colorless crystals with sharp melting points, unlike the isolated samples.[6] The analytical data of these synthesized alkaloids are in agreement with those reported for the natural products. The only significant difference was found in the specific rotation values.[6]

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Scheme 4 First total synthesis of pimprinol B

In conclusion, a convergent synthesis of racemic and optically active pimprinols A and C has been developed from readily available amino acids in six steps using practical and convenient synthetic methodology. Furthermore, the first total synthesis of optically inactive pimprinol B was accomplished in five steps starting from commercially available 3-hydroxy-3-methylbutanoic acid. In addition, 25 new compounds were also synthesized as intermediates during the preparations. In each case, the modified Robinson–Gabriel­ cyclization was employed as the key step.

Reactions under microwave conditions were carried out with a MicroSYNTH­ T640 in ‘vent-and-reseal’ vessels with an ATC–FO automatic temperature control and limitation of maximum power to 200–300 W. All melting points were determined with a Büchi B-540 capillary melting point apparatus and are uncorrected. IR spectra were obtained with a Bruker Alpha FT-IR spectrophotometer in KBr pellets or film. 1H and 13C NMR spectra were recorded in DMSO-d 6, CDCl3 or CD3OD in 5 mm tubes at r.t., with a Bruker Avance III HD 600 (600 and 150 MHz for 1H and 13C NMR spectra, respectively), or a Bruker Avance III 400 (400 and 100 MHz for 1H and 13C NMR spectra, respectively) spectrometer with the deuterium signal of the solvent as the lock and TMS as the internal standard. Chemical shifts (δ) and coupling constants (J) are given in ppm and in Hz, respectively. The following abbreviations were used to designate multiplicities: s = singlet, d = doublet, t = triplet, q = quartet, sp = septet, m = multiplet, br = broad. Mass spectra were recorded with a Bruker O-TOF MAXIS Impact mass spectrometer coupled to a Dionex Ultimate 3000 RS HPLC system with a diode array detector. Reactions were monitored by thin-layer chromatography (TLC) carried out on silica gel plates (60 F254) using UV light as visualizing agent. Purifications by flash column chromatography were carried out using Merck 107736 silica gel 60 H using a hexane–CH2Cl2 or CH2Cl2–MeOH solvent system. All reagents were purchased from commercial sources and used without further purification. Analytical samples of new compounds were obtained by recrystallization from the solvents or solvent mixtures given below in parentheses. The [α] d values were determined as an average value of three measurements, measured in MeOH.

Compounds (rac)-1, (R)-1, 2, (R)-3, (rac)-9, 17, 18, 20, 22 are described in the literature, while compounds (S)-1, (rac)-3, (S)-3, (R)-9, (S)-9, (rac)-10, (R)-10, (S)-10, (rac)-11, (R)-11, (S)-11, (rac)-14, (R)-14, (S)-14, (rac)-15, (R)-15, (S)-15, (rac)-16, (R)-16, (S)-16, 19, 21, 25, 26, 27 are novel.


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Chromatographic Separation and Conditions

During chiral separations, a polar organic mode was used on a polysaccharide stationary phase (150 × 4.6 mm Lux 5 μm amylose-1). The column was purchased from Phenomenex (Torrance, USA). The mobile phase used in this work was acetonitrile (gradient grade) with 0.1% diethylamine. Chemicals were purchased from Merck (Darmstadt, Germany). Chromatographic experiments were performed with a Waters Acquity UPLC H-Class system (Milford, USA) equipped with a quaternary solvent delivery pump, autosampler, photodiode array detector and Empower 3 software. The column temperature was 20 °C. This UHPLC system had a flow-through-needle (FTN) sample injector and 500 nL flow cell. Before analysis, samples were dissolved in pure acetonitrile (0.5 mg/mL); injection volume was 1 μL.


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Preparation of Amides 9, 14, 17, 18; General Procedure

Tryptamine (8; 14 mmol) and triethylamine (21 mmol, 1.5 equiv) were dissolved in CH2Cl2 (80 mL) and cooled in an ice-water bath. To this solution, the appropriate acyl chloride (15.4 mmol) was added dropwise. After addition of the acyl chloride, the reaction mixture was allowed to warm to r.t. and stirred for 2 hours. After the reaction was complete, the mixture was washed with water (60 mL), 5% HCl solution (60 mL) and again with water (60 mL). The organic phase was dried over MgSO4, filtered and evaporated to provide the amides (9, 14, 17, 18). The crude products were purified by flash column chromatography (CH2Cl2–MeOH).


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2-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)ethyl]amino}-1-methyl-2-oxoethyl acetate [(rac)-9][24]

Yield: 3.047 g (88%); brown oil.

IR (KBr): 3405, 3311, 1738, 1667, 1537, 1232, 1096, 744 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 8.20 (br s, 1 H), 7.61 (d, J = 8.0 Hz, 1 H), 7.39 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.26 (br s, 1 H), 7.21 (t, J = 7.3 Hz, 1 H), 7.14 (t, J = 7.7 Hz, 1 H), 6.19 (br s, 1 H), 5.15 (q, J = 6.9 Hz, 1 H), 3.69–3.62 (m, 1 H), 3.61–3.54 (m, 1 H), 3.00 (t, J = 6.7 Hz, 2 H), 1.93 (s, 3 H), 1.43 (d, J = 6.8 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 170.3, 169.4, 136.3, 127.3, 122.23, 122.16, 119.6, 118.6, 112.7, 111.3, 70.6, 39.5, 25.0, 20.9, 17.9 ppm.


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(1R)-2-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)ethyl]amino}-1-methyl-2-oxoethyl acetate [(R)-9]

Yield: 3.151 g (91%); brown oil; [α] d 28 +13.7 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (film): 3405, 3308, 1735, 1664, 1540, 1233, 1096, 744 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 8.34 (br s, 1 H), 7.60 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.39 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.26 (br s, 1 H), 7.20 (t, J = 7.3 Hz, 1 H), 7.13 (t, J = 7.8 Hz, 1 H), 7.03 (d, J = 2.0 Hz, 1 H), 6.21 (br s, 1 H), 5.15 (q, J = 6.8 Hz, 1 H), 3.69–3.62 (m, 1 H), 3.61–3.54 (m, 1 H), 3.00 (t, J = 6.7 Hz, 2 H), 1.92 (s, 3 H), 1.42 (d, J = 6.8 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 170.3, 169.4, 136.2, 127.3, 122.20, 122.15, 119.5, 118.5, 112.6, 111.3, 70.5, 39.6, 25.0, 20.8, 17.9.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C15H19N2O3: 275.1396; found: 275.1390.


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(1S)-2-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)ethyl]amino}-1-methyl-2-oxoethyl acetate [(S)-9]

Yield: 3.428 g (99%); brown oil; [α] d 28 –17.5 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3405, 3306, 1737, 1665, 1537, 1233, 1096, 745 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 8.19 (br s, 1 H), 7.61 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.39 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.26 (br s, 1 H), 7.22 (t, J = 7.2 Hz, 1 H), 7.14 (t, J = 7.2 Hz, 1 H), 7.04 (d, J = 2.0 Hz, 1 H), 6.19 (br s, 1 H), 5.15 (q, J = 6.8 Hz, 1 H), 3.69–3.62 (m, 1 H), 3.61–3.54 (m, 1 H), 3.00 (t, J = 6.6 Hz, 2 H), 1.93 (s, 3 H), 1.43 (d, J = 6.9 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 170.3, 169.4, 136.3, 127.3, 122.23, 122.16, 119.6, 118.6, 112.7, 111.3, 70.6, 39.5, 25.0, 20.9, 17.9.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C15H19N2O3: 275.1396; found: 275.1390.


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1-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)ethyl]carbamoyl}propyl acetate [(rac)-14]

Yield: 3.994 g (99%); brown oil.

IR (film): 3406, 3299, 1739, 1660, 1537, 1233, 745, 426 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 8.23 (br s, 1 H), 7.61 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.38 (d, J = 8.2 Hz, 1 H), 7.26 (br s, 1 H), 7.21 (t, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.14 (t, J = 7.8 Hz, 1 H), 7.03 (d, J = 2.2 Hz, 1 H), 6.14 (br s, 1 H), 5.09 (q, J = 4.7 Hz, 1 H), 3.69–3.62 (m, 1 H), 3.61–3.53 (m, 1 H), 3.00 (t, J = 6.7 Hz, 2 H), 1.93 (s, 3 H), 1.91–1.85 (m, 1 H), 1.84–1.77 (m, 1 H), 0.88 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 169.61, 169.57, 136.3, 127.3, 122.3, 119.5, 118.6, 112.7, 111.3, 74.9, 39.5, 25.1, 25.0, 20.7, 9.0.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C16H21N2O3: 289.1552; found: 289.1546.


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(1R)-1-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)ethyl]carbamoyl}propyl acetate [(R)-14]

Yield: 3.994 g (99%); brown oil; [α] d 28 +17.1 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3405, 3306, 1738, 1666, 1536, 1232, 745, 426 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 8.17 (br s, 1 H), 7.61 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.38 (d, J = 8.2 Hz, 1 H), 7.26 (br s, 1 H), 7.23 (t, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.18 (t, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.04 (d, J = 2.3 Hz, 1 H), 6.13 (br s, 1 H), 5.10 (q, J = 4.7 Hz, 1 H), 3.69–3.62 (m, 1 H), 3.61–3.53 (m, 1 H), 3.00 (t, J = 6.7 Hz, 2 H), 1.93 (s, 3 H), 1.91–1.85 (m, 1 H), 1.84–1.77 (m, 1 H), 0.88 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 169.59, 169.56, 136.3, 127.3, 122.23, 122.19, 119.6, 118.6, 112.7, 111.3, 74.9, 39.4, 25.1, 25.0, 20.8, 9.0.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C16H21N2O3: 289.1552; found: 289.1547.


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(1S)-1-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)ethyl]carbamoyl}propyl acetate [(S)-14]

Yield: 3.994 g (99%); brown oil; [α] d 28 –20.9 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3405, 3307, 1738, 1664, 1536, 1232, 744, 427 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 8.17 (br s, 1 H), 7.61 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.39 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.26 (br s, 1 H), 7.22 (t, J = 7.3 Hz, 1 H), 7.14 (t, J = 7.8 Hz, 1 H), 7.04 (d, J = 1.9 Hz, 1 H), 6.13 (br s, 1 H), 5.10 (q, J = 4.8 Hz, 1 H), 3.69–3.62 (m, 1 H), 3.61–3.53 (m, 1 H), 2.99 (t, J = 6.7 Hz, 2 H), 1.93 (s, 3 H), 1.91–1.85 (m, 1 H), 1.84–1.77 (m, 1 H), 0.88 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 169.60, 169.57, 136.3, 127.3, 122.23, 122.20, 119.6, 118.6, 112.7, 111.3, 74.9, 39.5, 25.1, 25.0, 20.8, 9.0.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C16H21N2O3: 289.1552; found: 289.1547.


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Methyl 3-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)ethyl]amino}-3-oxopropanoate (17)[25]

Yield: 2.259 g (62%); brown oil.

IR (film): 3393, 3307, 1738, 1655, 1437, 830, 746, 559 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 8.50 (br s, 1 H), 7.59–7.56 (m, 1 H), 7.34–7.31 (m, 1 H), 7.19–7.14 (m, 1 H), 7.11–7.07 (m, 1 H), 7.02 (br s, 1 H), 6.98 (d, J = 2.3 Hz, 1 H), 3.65 (s, 3 H), 3.59 (q, J = 6.9 Hz, 2 H), 3.21 (s, 2 H), 2.89–2.94 (m, 2 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 169.5, 165.0, 136.3, 127.1, 122.2, 121.9, 119.2, 118.5, 112.4, 111.2, 52.3, 41.2, 39.9, 24.9.


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N-[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)ethyl]-3-methylbut-2-enamide (18)[26]

Yield: 3.359 g (99%); colorless crystals; mp 73–75 °C (EtOH).

IR (KBr): 3296, 2885, 1626, 1548, 1457, 1222, 931, 799 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 8.17 (br s, 1 H), 7.61 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.38 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.26 (s, 1 H), 7.21 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 1 H), 7.13 (t, J = 7.5 Hz, 1 H), 7.02 (s, 1 H), 5.82 (br s, 1 H), 4.88 (s, 1 H), 4.78 (s, 1 H), 3.60 (q, J = 6.4 Hz, 2 H), 2.97 (t, J = 6.7 Hz, 2 H), 2.91 (s, 1 H), 1.71 (s, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 170.2, 140.3, 136.3, 127.3, 122.2, 122.0, 119.4, 118.7, 115.5, 112.9, 111.2, 46.3, 39.7, 25.2, 22.4.


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Preparation of Amide 25; General Procedure

Method A: 3-Acetoxy-3-methylbutyric acid (24; 10 mmol) and carbonyldiimidazole (CDI; 10 mmol) were dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidine (10 mL) and the mixture was stirred for 1 h. Tryptamine (8; 10 mmol) was then added in one portion and the reaction mixture was stirred at r.t. overnight. After the conversion was complete, the reaction was quenched with water (50 mL) and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3 × 25 mL). The combined organic layers were dried over MgSO4, filtered and evaporated. The crude product was purified with flash column chromatography (n-hexane−EtOAc) for analytical measurements.

Method B: Tryptamine (8; 20 mmol), 3-acetoxy-3-methylbutyric acid (24; 20 mmol), i-Pr2EtN (40 mmol, 2 equiv), and HATU (24 mmol, 1.2 equiv) were dissolved in THF (200 mL) and the reaction mixture was stirred at r.t. overnight. After the reaction was complete, the mixture was evaporated. The residue was taken up in CH2Cl2 (100 mL) and the organic extract was washed with water (3 × 50 mL). The organic phase was dried over Na2SO4, filtered and evaporated to provide amide 25. The crude product was purified by flash column chromatography (n-hexane−EtOAc).


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3-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)ethyl]amino}-1,1-dimethyl-3-oxopropyl acetate (25)

Yield (Method A): 1.149 g (38%); Yield (Method B): 3.387 g (70%); pale-brown oil.

IR (KBr): 3406, 2935, 1730, 1658, 1369, 1253, 833, 743 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 8.33 (br s, 1 H), 7.60 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.36 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.26 (s, 1 H), 7.20 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 1 H), 7.12 (t, J = 7.6 Hz, 1 H), 7.02 (d, J = 1.8 Hz, 1 H), 5.80 (br s, 1 H), 3.61 (q, J = 6.5 Hz, 2 H), 2.96 (t, J = 6.8 Hz, 2 H), 2.64 (s, 2 H), 1.73 (s, 3 H), 1.51 (s, 6 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 170.9, 169.4, 136.4, 127.1, 122.2, 122.0, 119.4, 118.6, 112.6, 111.2, 80.6, 47.2, 39.4, 26.5, 25.3, 22.1.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C17H22N2O3: 303.1709; found: 303.1703.


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Preparation of Ketoamides 10, 15, 19, 20, 26; General Procedure

The appropriate amide 9, 14, 17, 18, 25 (4 mmol) was dissolved in THF–H2O (9:1, 60 mL). To this solution was added 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone (DDQ; 8 mmol, 2 equiv) in several portions at 0 °C. After addition was complete, the mixture was stirred at the same temperature for 2 h (until the consumption of the starting material as indicated by TLC). The mixture was then poured into EtOAc (150 mL), extracted with 10% aq. NaHCO3 (4 × 85 mL), dried over MgSO4­, filtered, and evaporated to give the desired ketoamide. Analytical samples were obtained by recrystallization from EtOH.


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2-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-2-oxoethyl]amino}-1-methyl-2-oxoethyl acetate­ [(rac)-10]

Yield: 1.096 g (95%); colorless crystals; mp 128–130 °C (EtOH).

IR (KBr): 3278, 3116, 1737, 1666, 1633, 1243, 1048, 756 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 12.03 (br s, 1 H), 8.43 (d, J = 3.1 Hz, 1 H), 8.30 (t, J = 5.6 Hz, 1 H), 8.16 (d, J = 7.4 Hz, 1 H), 7.49 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.36–7.27 (m, 2 H), 5.07 (q, J = 6.9 Hz, 1 H), 4.48 (d, J = 6.9 Hz, 2 H), 2.10 (s, 3 H), 1.39 (d, J = 7.2 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 190.0, 170.5, 169.9, 136.6, 133.9, 125.6, 123.1, 122.1, 121.3, 114.1, 112.4, 69.8, 45.6, 21.0, 18.1.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C15H17N2O4: 289.1188; found: 289.1183.


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(1R)-2-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-2-oxoethyl]amino}-1-methyl-2-oxo­ethyl acetate [(R)-10]

Yield: 1.049 g (91%); colorless crystals; mp 128–130 °C (EtOH); [α] d 28 +31.6 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3386, 3258, 1743, 1662, 1631, 1528, 1230, 745 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 12.03 (br s, 1 H), 8.44 (d, J = 3.1 Hz, 1 H), 8.31 (t, J = 5.6 Hz, 1 H), 8.17 (d, J = 7.5 Hz, 1 H), 7.49 (d, J = 7.7 Hz, 1 H), 7.26–7.17 (m, 2 H), 5.07 (q, J = 6.8 Hz, 1 H), 4.48 (d, J = 5.8 Hz, 2 H), 2.10 (s, 3 H), 1.40 (d, J = 6.8 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 190.0, 170.6, 169.9, 136.6, 133.9, 125.6, 123.1, 122.1, 121.3, 114.1, 112.4, 69.8, 45.6, 21.0, 18.1.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C15H17N2O4: 289.1188; found: 289.1183.


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(1S)-2-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-2-oxoethyl]amino}-1-methyl-2-oxoethyl acetate [(S)-10]

Yield: 1.072 g (93%); colorless crystals; mp 134–136 °C (EtOH); [α] d 28 –30.9 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3332, 3260, 1744, 1659, 1621, 1228, 1120, 746 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 12.03 (br s, 1 H), 8.44 (s, 1 H), 8.30 (t, J = 5.7 Hz, 1 H), 8.16 (d, J = 7.2 Hz, 1 H), 7.48 (d, J = 7.8 Hz, 1 H), 7.26–7.17 (m, 2 H), 5.07 (q, J = 6.8 Hz, 1 H), 4.48 (d, J = 5.7 Hz, 2 H), 2.09 (s, 3 H), 1.39 (d, J = 6.8 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 190.0, 170.5, 169.9, 136.6, 133.9, 125.6, 123.1, 122.1, 121.3, 114.1, 112.4, 69.8, 45.6, 21.0, 18.1.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C15H17N2O4: 289.1188; found: 289.1183.


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1-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-2-oxoethyl]carbamoyl}propyl acetate [(rac)-15]

Yield: 1.197 g (99%); colorless crystals; mp 152–153 °C (EtOH).

IR (KBr): 3275, 3106, 1733, 1664, 1631, 1580, 1236, 757 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 12.02 (br s, 1 H), 8.44 (d, J = 3.1 Hz, 1 H), 8.29 (t, J = 5.7 Hz, 1 H), 8.16 (d, J = 7.6 Hz, 1 H), 7.48 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.26–7.17 (m, 2 H), 4.96 (q, J = 4.9 Hz, 1 H), 4.55–4.46 (m, 2 H), 2.11 (s, 3 H), 1.88–1.71 (m, 2 H), 1.39 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 190.0, 170.1, 169.7, 136.6, 133.9, 125.6, 123.1, 122.1, 121.3, 114.2, 112.4, 74.4, 45.6, 25.1, 21.0, 9.5.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C16H19N2O4: 303.1345; found: 303.1339.


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(1R)-1-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-2-oxoethyl]carbamoyl}propyl acetate [(R)-15]

Yield: 1.247 g (93%); colorless crystals; mp 154–157 °C (EtOH); [α] d 28 +36.5 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3346, 3277, 1746, 1628, 1520, 1431, 1232, 746 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 12.02 (br s, 1 H), 8.44 (d, J = 3.2 Hz, 1 H), 8.29 (t, J = 5.7 Hz, 1 H), 8.16 (d, J = 7.2 Hz, 1 H), 7.48 (d, J = 7.8 Hz, 1 H), 7.26–7.17 (m, 2 H), 4.96 (q, J = 4.9 Hz, 1 H), 4.52–4.48 (m, 2 H), 2.11 (s, 3 H), 1.88–1.71 (m, 2 H), 0.95 (t, J = 7.6 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 190.0, 170.1, 169.7, 136.6, 133.9, 125.6, 123.1, 122.1, 121.3, 114.2, 112.4, 74.4, 45.6, 25.1, 21.0, 9.5.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C16H19N2O4: 303.1345; found: 303.1339.


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(1S)-1-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-2-oxoethyl]carbamoyl}propyl acetate [(S)-15]

Yield: 1.197 g (99%); colorless crystals; mp 151–154 °C (EtOH); [α] d 28 –34.8 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3346, 3276, 1746, 1627, 1519, 1430, 1232, 746 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 12.02 (br s, 1 H), 8.44 (d, J = 3.2 Hz, 1 H), 8.29 (t, J = 5.7 Hz, 1 H), 8.16 (d, J = 7.2 Hz, 1 H), 7.48 (d, J = 7.8 Hz, 1 H), 7.26–7.17 (m, 2 H), 4.96 (q, J = 4.9 Hz, 1 H), 4.52–4.48 (m, 2 H), 2.11 (s, 3 H), 1.88–1.71 (m, 2 H), 0.95 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 190.0, 170.1, 169.7, 136.6, 133.9, 125.6, 123.1, 122.1, 121.3, 114.2, 112.4, 74.4, 45.6, 25.1, 21.0, 9.5.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C16H19N2O4: 303.1345; found: 303.1339.


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Methyl 3-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-2-oxoethyl]amino}-3-oxopropanoate (19)

Yield: 1.086 g (99%); pale-brown crystals; mp 173–176 °C (EtOH).

IR (KBr): 3302, 3219, 1741, 1667, 1625, 1437, 1208, 743 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 8.86 (br s, 1 H), 8.35 (t, J = 3.7 Hz, 1 H), 7.96 (d, J = 3.1 Hz, 2 H), 7.49–7.43 (m, 1 H), 7.37–7.30 (m, 2 H), 4.70 (d, J = 4.3 Hz, 2 H), 3.80 (s, 3 H), 3.45 (s, 2 H), 3.59 (q, J = 6.9 Hz, 2 H), 3.21 (s, 2 H), 2.89–2.94 (m, 2 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CDCl3): δ = 188.4, 169.2, 165.1, 136.1, 131.1, 125.2, 124.1, 123.1, 122.2, 115.4, 111.6, 52.6, 46.6, 41.3.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C14H14N2O4: 275.0954; found: 275.1024.


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N-[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-2-oxoethyl]-3-methylbut-2-enamide (20)

Yield: 1.015 g (99%); colorless crystals; mp 243–245 °C (EtOH, decomp.) (lit.[7] mp 230–233 °C).

IR (KBr): 3335, 3221, 1624, 1536, 1515, 1435, 926, 742 cm–1.

1H NMR (400 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 11.99 (br s, 1 H), 8.43 (s, 1 H), 8.22–8.12 (m, 1 H), 8.05 (t, J = 5.6 Hz, 1 H), 7.53–7.45 (m, 1 H), 7.28–7.16 (m, 2 H), 5.81 (s, 1 H), 4.48 (d, J = 5.8 Hz, 1 H), 2.10 (s, 3 H), 1.81 (s, 3 H).

13C NMR (100 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 190.8, 166.4, 149.0, 136.6, 133.7, 125.6, 123.0, 122.0, 121.3, 119.1, 114.3, 112.3, 45.6, 27.0, 19.5.


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3-{[2-(1H-Indol-3-yl)ethyl]amino}-1,1-dimethyl-3-oxopropyl acetate (26)

Yield: 696 mg (55%); colorless crystals; mp 169–171 °C (EtOH, decomp.).

IR (KBr): 3328, 3243, 1737, 1630, 1431, 1251, 1144, 746 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 12.01 (br s, 1 H), 8.43 (s, 1 H), 8.20–8.12 (m, 2 H), 7.52–7.47 (m, 1 H), 7.25–7.17 (m, 2 H), 4.47 (d, J = 5.6 Hz, 1 H), 2.74 (s, 2 H), 1.93 (s, 3 H), 1.51 (s, 6 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, DMSO-d 6): δ = 190.4, 170.1, 169.1, 136.6, 133.8, 125.6, 123.1, 122.0, 121.4, 114.2, 112.4, 80.2, 45.9, 45.2, 26.5, 22.5.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C17H21N2O4: 317.1501; found: 317.1496.


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Formation of Oxazoles 11, 16, 27 in the Presence of POCl3 and Pyridine­; General Procedure

Ketoamide (10, 15, 26; 0.6 mmol) was dissolved in pyridine (2 mL), POCl3 (3.24 mmol, 5.4 equiv) was added at r.t. and the reaction mixture was stirred 3 hours. After the reaction was complete (TLC monitoring), EtOAc (40 mL) and 10% aq. NaHCO3 (60 mL) were added to the mixture, the phases were separated, and the aqueous phase was further extracted with EtOAc (3 × 40 mL). The combined organic extracts were washed with water (60 mL) and brine (60 mL), then dried (MgSO4­), filtered and evaporated to afford the appropriate products. Analytical samples were obtained by recrystallization from aqueous EtOH.


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1-[5-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]ethyl acetate [(rac)-11]

Yield: 130 mg (80%); pale-brown crystals; mp 139–141 °C (EtOH–H2O).

IR (KBr): 3473, 3171, 1750, 1634, 1495, 1221, 1044, 741 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.80 (dd, 1 J = 0.4 Hz, 2 J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.65 (s, 1 H), 7.44 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.25 (s, 1 H), 7.20 (t, J = 7.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.16 (t, J = 7.8 Hz, 1 H), 6.01 (q, J = 6.8 Hz, 1 H), 2.12 (s, 3 H), 1.69 (d, J = 6.7 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 171.6, 161.3, 151.0, 138.2, 125.4, 124.3, 123.5, 121.5, 120.4, 119.5, 112.9, 105.0, 66.2, 20.8, 18.6 ppm.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C15H15N2O3: 271.1083; found: 271.1077.


#

(1R)-1-[5-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]ethyl acetate [(R)-11]

Yield: 125 mg (77%); pale-brown crystals; mp 164–166 °C (EtOH–H2O); [α] d 28 +87.2 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3472, 3169, 1753, 1637, 1494, 1222, 1066, 749 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.81 (d J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.65 (s, 1 H), 7.44 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.25 (s, 1 H), 7.24–7.19 (m, 1 H), 7.18–7.14 (m, 1 H), 6.02 (q, J = 6.8 Hz, 1 H), 2.13 (s, 3 H), 1.69 (d, J = 6.7 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 171.6, 161.3, 151.0, 138.2, 125.3, 124.3, 123.5, 121.5, 120.4, 119.5, 112.9, 105.0, 66.2, 20.8, 18.6.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C15H15N2O3: 271.1083; found: 271.1077.


#

(1S)-1-[5-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]ethyl acetate [(S)-11]

Yield: 120 mg (74%); pale-brown crystals; mp 164–167 °C (EtOH–H2O); [α] d 28 –89.4 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3473, 3169, 1753, 1637, 1451, 1222, 1066, 749 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.80 (d J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.65 (s, 1 H), 7.46 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.26 (s, 1 H), 7.24–7.19 (m, 1 H), 7.18–7.14 (m, 1 H), 6.02 (q, J = 6.8 Hz, 1 H), 2.13 (s, 3 H), 1.69 (d, J = 6.7 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 171.6, 161.3, 151.0, 138.2, 125.3, 124.3, 123.5, 121.5, 120.4, 119.5, 112.9, 105.0, 66.2, 20.8, 18.6.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C15H15N2O3: 271.1083; found: 271.1077.


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1-[5-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]propyl acetate [(rac)-16]

Yield: 162 mg (95%); pale-yellow crystals; mp 131–133 °C (EtOH–H2O).

IR (KBr): 3454, 3184, 1750, 1636, 1453, 1230, 1119, 739 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.79 (d J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.65 (s, 1 H), 7.40 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.26 (s, 1 H), 7.21 (t, J = 7.7 Hz, 1 H), 7.16 (t, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 5.82 (t, J = 6.9 Hz, 1 H), 2.14 (s, 3 H), 2.13–2.03 (m, 2 H), 1.01 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 171.8, 160.7, 150.9, 138.2, 125.3, 124.3, 123.5, 121.5, 120.4, 119.5, 112.9, 105.0, 71.0, 27.1, 20.7, 9.7.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C16H17N2O3: 285.1239; found: 285.1234.


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(1R)-1-[5-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]propyl acetate [(R)-16]

Yield: 163 mg (96%); pale-brown crystals; mp 115–117 °C (EtOH–H2O); [α] d 28 +97.3 (c 0.5, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3379, 3183, 1735, 1631, 1460, 1220, 1016, 743 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.80 (d J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.65 (s, 1 H), 7.44 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.26 (s, 1 H), 7.23–7.19 (m, 1 H), 7.18–7.14 (m, 1 H), 5.83 (t, J = 6.7 Hz, 1 H), 2.14 (s, 3 H), 2.13–2.03 (m, 2 H), 1.01 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 171.8, 160.7, 150.9, 138.2, 125.3, 124.3, 123.5, 121.5, 120.4, 119.5, 112.9, 105.0, 71.0, 27.1, 20.7, 9.7.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C16H17N2O3: 285.1239; found: 285.1234.


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(1S)-1-[5-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]propyl acetate [(S)-16]

Yield: 157 mg (92%); pale-yellow crystals; mp 116–117 °C (EtOH–H2O); [α] d 28 –102.4 (c 0.5, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3379, 3183, 1735, 1631, 1460, 1221, 1016, 743 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.80 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.65 (s, 1 H), 7.44 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.26 (s, 1 H), 7.23–7.19 (m, 1 H), 7.18–7.14 (m, 1 H), 5.83 (t, J = 6.7 Hz, 1 H), 2.14 (s, 3 H), 2.13–2.03 (m, 2 H), 1.01 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 171.8, 160.7, 150.9, 138.2, 125.3, 124.3, 123.5, 121.5, 120.4, 119.5, 112.9, 105.0, 71.0, 27.1, 20.7, 9.7.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C16H17N2O3: 285.1239; found: 285.1234.


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2-[5-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]-1,1-dimethylethyl acetate (27)

Yield: 170 mg (95%); colorless crystals; mp 145–147 °C (EtOH–H2O).

IR (KBr): 3445, 3209, 1731, 1604, 1428, 1255, 1172, 735 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.82 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.60 (s, 1 H), 7.44 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.24–7.18 (m, 2 H), 7.17–7.13 (m, 1 H), 3.41 (s, 2 H), 1.97 (s, 3 H), 1.56 (s, 6 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 172.4, 160.3, 150.7, 138.2, 125.3, 123.7, 123.5, 121.4, 120.5, 119.3, 112.8, 105.4, 81.6, 49.1, 38.8, 26.8, 22.4.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C17H19N2O3: 299.1396; found: 299.1390.


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Preparation of Oxazoles 21 and 22 with MW Technique in the Presence of Propylphosphonic Anhydride (T3P®); General Procedure

Ketoamide (19 or 20; 0.5 mmol), T3P® reagent (10 equiv, 2.98 mL, 50% EtOAc solution) and CH3CN (12 mL) were measured into a vent-and-reseal vessel and the reaction mixture was stirred at 100 °C for 1 h under microwave irradiation. After cooling to r.t., the mixture was evaporated, the residue was taken up in CH2Cl2 (50 mL) and extracted with sat. aq. NaHCO3 (2 × 25 mL) and water (4 × 25 mL). The organic layer was dried (MgSO4), filtered and evaporated to afford the appropriate product. Analytical samples were obtained by recrystallization from aqueous EtOH.


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Methyl [5-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]acetate (21)

Yield: 126 mg (98%); brown crystals; mp 158–160 °C (EtOH–H2O).

IR (KBr): 3170, 2899, 1746, 1637, 1251, 1169, 1006, 739 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.79 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.63 (s, 1 H), 7.43 (d, J = 8.0 Hz, 1 H), 7.24 (s, 1 H), 7.20 (t, J = 7.3 Hz, 1 H), 7.15 (t, J = 7.5 Hz, 1 H), 3.99 (s, 1 H), 3.98 (s, 1 H), 3.77 (s, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 169.8, 156.9, 151.1, 138.2, 125.3, 124.1, 123.5, 121.4, 120.5, 119.7, 112.8, 105.2, 53.1, 34.8.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C14H13N2O3: 257.0926; found: 257.0921.


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3-[2-(2-Methylprop-1-en-1-yl)-1,3-oxazol-5-yl]-1H-indole (22, labradorin 5)

Yield: 188 mg (99%); brown crystals; mp 126–129 °C (EtOH–H2O) (lit.[7] mp 128–131 °C).

IR (KBr): 3452, 3063, 1631, 1449, 1112, 1011, 978, 735 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.81 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.62 (s, 1 H), 7.44 (d, J = 8.0 Hz, 1 H), 7.27 (s, 1 H), 7.20 (t, J = 7.3 Hz, 1 H), 7.16 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 1 H), 6.17 (s, 1 H), 2.27 (s, 3 H), 2.01 (s, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 160.7, 149.0, 146.5, 138.2, 125.3, 123.9, 123.5, 121.4, 120.5, 120.0, 112.8, 112.3, 105.5, 27.4, 20.7.


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Preparation of Pimprinol Alkaloids 1–3; General Procedure

Acetoxy-protected oxazole (11, 16 or 27; 0.7 mmol) was dissolved in MeOH (28 mL) and aq. NaOH (3.08 mmol in 0.5 mL water, 4.4 equiv) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred at r.t. until the reaction was complete, then the solvent was evaporated. The residue was taken up in a mixture of EtOAc (50 mL) and water (50 mL), and the phases were separated. The aqueous mixture was extracted with further EtOAc (3 × 30 mL), and the combined organic phases were dried over MgSO4, filtered and evaporated. The products were purified by recrystallization from MeCN.


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1-[5-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]ethanol [(rac)-1]

Yield: 155 mg (97%); pale-yellow crystals; mp 157–160 °C (MeCN) (lit.[6] mp 151–152 °C).

IR (KBr): 3221, 1638, 1445, 1338, 1241, 1084, 974, 751 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.82 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.66 (s, 1 H), 7.44 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.22 (s, 1 H), 7.20 (t, J = 7.3 Hz, 1 H), 7.16 (t, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 4.96 (q, J = 6.7 Hz, 1 H), 1.63 (d, J = 6.7 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 165.1, 150.4, 138.2, 125.3, 124.0, 123.5, 121.4, 120.5, 119.2, 112.8, 105.3, 64.2, 21.5.


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(1R)-1-[5-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]ethanol ([(R)-1], pimprinol A)

Yield: 157 mg (98%); 98% ee; pale-yellow crystals; mp 172–174 °C (MeCN) (lit.[6] mp 151–152 °C); [α] d 27 +8.2 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3267, 1680, 1440, 1385, 1128, 1098, 971, 732 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.84–7.81 (m, 1 H), 7.65 (s, 1 H), 7.46–7.43 (m, 1 H), 7.22 (s, 1 H), 7.24–7.18 (m, 1 H), 7.17–7.14 (m, 1 H), 4.96 (q, J = 6.7 Hz, 1 H), 1.63 (d, J = 6.7 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 165.1, 150.4, 138.2, 125.3, 124.0, 123.5, 121.4, 120.5, 119.2, 112.8, 105.3, 64.2, 21.5.


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(1S)-1-[5-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]ethanol [(S)-1]

Yield: 142 mg (89%); 98% ee; pale-yellow crystals; mp 177–179 °C (MeCN); [α] d 28 –7.4 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3266, 1681, 1440, 1376, 1128, 1098, 972, 732 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.84–7.81 (m, 1 H), 7.65 (s, 1 H), 7.46–7.42 (m, 1 H), 7.22 (s, 1 H), 7.24–7.18 (m, 1 H), 7.17–7.14 (m, 1 H), 4.96 (q, J = 6.7 Hz, 1 H), 1.63 (d, J = 6.7 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 165.1, 150.4, 138.2, 125.3, 124.0, 123.5, 121.4, 120.5, 119.2, 112.8, 105.3, 64.2, 21.5.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C13H13N2O2: 229.0977; found: 229.0972.


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1-[5-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]-2-methylpropan-2-ol (2, pimprinol B)[6]

Yield: 149 mg (83%); colorless crystals; mp 149–150 °C (MeCN).

IR (KBr): 3222, 1636, 1441, 1338, 1257, 1107, 971, 741 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.81 (d, J = 7.7 Hz, 1 H), 7.61 (s, 1 H), 7.43 (d, J = 8.0 Hz, 1 H), 7.24–7.11 (m, 3 H), 3.00 (s, 1 H), 1.34 (s, 6 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 164.5, 150.4, 138.2, 125.3, 124.0, 123.5, 121.4, 120.5, 119.1, 112.8, 105.3, 69.7, 29.6, 10.1.


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1-[5-(1-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]propan-1-ol [(rac)-3]

Yield: 161 mg (95%); colorless crystals; mp 159–160 °C (MeCN).

IR (KBr): 3222, 1636, 1441, 1338, 1257, 1107, 971, 741 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.82 (d, J = 7.8 Hz, 1 H), 7.65 (s, 1 H), 7.44 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.23 (s, 1 H), 7.20 (t, J = 7.2 Hz, 1 H), 7.16 (t, J = 7.8 Hz, 1 H), 4.70 (t, J = 6.9 Hz, 1 H), 2.07–1.93 (m, 2 H), 1.01 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 3 H) ppm.

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 164.5, 150.4, 138.2, 125.3, 124.0, 123.5, 121.4, 120.5, 119.1, 112.8, 105.3, 69.7, 29.6, 10.1.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C14H15N2O2: 243.1134; found: 243.1128.


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(1R)-1-[5-(1-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]propan-1-ol ([(R)-3], pimprinol C)[6]

Yield: 158 mg (93%); 98% ee; colorless crystals; mp 143–145 °C (MeCN); [α] d 27 +12.8 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3285, 1634, 1587, 1438, 1258, 1125, 966, 732 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.82 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.65 (s, 1 H), 7.44 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.23 (s, 1 H), 7.26–7.18 (m, 1 H), 7.17–7.13 (m, 1 H), 4.70 (t, J = 7.0 Hz, 1 H), 2.07–1.93 (m, 2 H), 1.01 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 164.5, 150.4, 138.2, 125.3, 124.0, 123.5, 121.4, 120.5, 119.1, 112.8, 105.4, 69.7, 29.6, 10.1.


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(1S)-1-[5-(1-Indol-3-yl)-1,3-oxazol-2-yl]propan-1-ol [(S)-3]

Yield: 162 mg (96%); 98% ee; pale-yellow crystals; mp 144–146 °C (MeCN); [α] d 27 –12.2 (c 1.0, MeOH).

IR (KBr): 3259, 1634, 1615, 1439, 1127, 977, 800, 732 cm–1.

1H NMR (600 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 7.82 (d, J = 7.9 Hz, 1 H), 7.65 (s, 1 H), 7.44 (d, J = 8.1 Hz, 1 H), 7.23 (s, 1 H), 7.26–7.18 (m, 1 H), 7.17–7.13 (m, 1 H), 4.70 (t, J = 7.1 Hz, 1 H), 2.07–1.93 (m, 2 H), 1.01 (t, J = 7.4 Hz, 3 H).

13C NMR (150 MHz, CD3OD): δ = 164.5, 150.4, 138.2, 125.3, 124.0, 123.5, 121.4, 120.5, 119.1, 112.8, 105.4, 69.7, 29.6, 10.1.

HRMS: m/z [M + H]+ calcd for C14H15N2O2: 243.1134; found: 243.1128.


#
#

Supporting Information

  • References

  • 1 Jacobs HM, Burke BA. Alkaloids, Vol. 35. Rossi A. Academic Press; San Diego: 1989. 259–310
  • 2 Davyt D, Serra G. Mar. Drugs 2010; 8: 2755
  • 3 Swellmeen L. Pharma Chem. 2016; 8: 269
  • 4 Joshi S, Bisht AS, Juyal D. Pharma Innovation 2017; 6: 109
  • 5 Kakkar S, Narasimhan B. BMC Chem. 2019; 13: 16
  • 6 Raju R, Gromyko O, Fedorenko V, Luzhetskyy A, Müller R. Tetrahedron Lett. 2012; 53: 3009
  • 7 Xiang J, Wang J, Wang M, Meng X, Wu A. Tetrahedron 2014; 70: 7470
  • 8 Kolasa T, Miller MJ. J. Org. Chem. 1987; 52: 4978
  • 9 Testa E, Fontanella L, Mariani L. Justus Liebigs Ann. Chem. 1962; 660: 135
  • 10 Leśniak S, Rachwalski M, Jarzyński S, Obijalska E. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 2013; 24: 1336
  • 11 Szabó T, Dancsó A, Ábrányi-Balogh P, Volk B, Milen M. Tetrahedron Lett. 2019; 60: 1353
  • 12 Nicolaou KC, Hao J, Reddy MV, Rao PB, Rassias G, Snyder SA, Huang X, Chen DY.-K, Brenzovich WE, Giuseppone N, Giannakakou P, O’Brate A. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2004; 126: 12897
  • 13 Clayden J, Greeves N, Warren S, Wothers P. Organic Chemistry, 1st ed. Oxford University Press; Oxford: 2001: 1223
  • 14 Crombie L, Jones RC. F, Palmer CJ. J. Chem. Soc., Perkin Trans. 1 1987; 333
  • 15 Oruganti S, Sen S, Dahanukar VH, Ganorkar R, Chakka R. PCT Int. Appl. WO 2016108206, 2016 ; Chem. Abstr. 2016, 165, 176459.
  • 16 Claffey MM, Helal CJ, Verhoest PR. PCT Int. Appl. WO 2010084438, 2010 ; Chem. Abstr. 2010, 153, 260362.
  • 17 Suess B, Brockhoff A, Meyerhof W, Hofmann T. J. Agric. Food Chem. 2018; 66: 2301
  • 18 Moon HR, Kim SY, Lim JW, Kim JN. Bull. Korean Chem. Soc. 2015; 36: 2773
  • 19 Morisaki M, Rubio-Lightbourn J, Ikekawa N. Chem. Pharm. Bull. 1973; 21: 457
  • 20 Almansour AI, Arumugam N, Kumar RS, Soliman SM. Altaf M, Ghabbour HA. Molecules 2016; 21: 724
  • 21 Chudasama V, Ahern JM, Fitzmaurice RJ, Caddick S. Tetrahedron Lett. 2011; 52: 1067
  • 22 Nomura T, Fukai T, Sato E, Fukushima K. Heterocycles 1981; 16: 983
  • 23 Fedeor LR. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1969; 91: 913
  • 24 Nemet I, Varga-Defterdarovic L. Bioorg. Med. Chem. 2008; 16: 4551
  • 25 Muratore ME, Shi L, Pilling AW, Storer RI, Dixon DJ. Chem. Commun. 2012; 48: 6351
  • 26 Broberg A, Bjerketorp J, Andersson P, Sahlberg C, Levenfors JJ. Molecules 2017; 22: 1072
  • 27 Miyake F, Hashimoto M, Tonsiengsom S, Yakushijin K, Horne DA. Tetrahedron 2010; 66: 4888

  • References

  • 1 Jacobs HM, Burke BA. Alkaloids, Vol. 35. Rossi A. Academic Press; San Diego: 1989. 259–310
  • 2 Davyt D, Serra G. Mar. Drugs 2010; 8: 2755
  • 3 Swellmeen L. Pharma Chem. 2016; 8: 269
  • 4 Joshi S, Bisht AS, Juyal D. Pharma Innovation 2017; 6: 109
  • 5 Kakkar S, Narasimhan B. BMC Chem. 2019; 13: 16
  • 6 Raju R, Gromyko O, Fedorenko V, Luzhetskyy A, Müller R. Tetrahedron Lett. 2012; 53: 3009
  • 7 Xiang J, Wang J, Wang M, Meng X, Wu A. Tetrahedron 2014; 70: 7470
  • 8 Kolasa T, Miller MJ. J. Org. Chem. 1987; 52: 4978
  • 9 Testa E, Fontanella L, Mariani L. Justus Liebigs Ann. Chem. 1962; 660: 135
  • 10 Leśniak S, Rachwalski M, Jarzyński S, Obijalska E. Tetrahedron: Asymmetry 2013; 24: 1336
  • 11 Szabó T, Dancsó A, Ábrányi-Balogh P, Volk B, Milen M. Tetrahedron Lett. 2019; 60: 1353
  • 12 Nicolaou KC, Hao J, Reddy MV, Rao PB, Rassias G, Snyder SA, Huang X, Chen DY.-K, Brenzovich WE, Giuseppone N, Giannakakou P, O’Brate A. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2004; 126: 12897
  • 13 Clayden J, Greeves N, Warren S, Wothers P. Organic Chemistry, 1st ed. Oxford University Press; Oxford: 2001: 1223
  • 14 Crombie L, Jones RC. F, Palmer CJ. J. Chem. Soc., Perkin Trans. 1 1987; 333
  • 15 Oruganti S, Sen S, Dahanukar VH, Ganorkar R, Chakka R. PCT Int. Appl. WO 2016108206, 2016 ; Chem. Abstr. 2016, 165, 176459.
  • 16 Claffey MM, Helal CJ, Verhoest PR. PCT Int. Appl. WO 2010084438, 2010 ; Chem. Abstr. 2010, 153, 260362.
  • 17 Suess B, Brockhoff A, Meyerhof W, Hofmann T. J. Agric. Food Chem. 2018; 66: 2301
  • 18 Moon HR, Kim SY, Lim JW, Kim JN. Bull. Korean Chem. Soc. 2015; 36: 2773
  • 19 Morisaki M, Rubio-Lightbourn J, Ikekawa N. Chem. Pharm. Bull. 1973; 21: 457
  • 20 Almansour AI, Arumugam N, Kumar RS, Soliman SM. Altaf M, Ghabbour HA. Molecules 2016; 21: 724
  • 21 Chudasama V, Ahern JM, Fitzmaurice RJ, Caddick S. Tetrahedron Lett. 2011; 52: 1067
  • 22 Nomura T, Fukai T, Sato E, Fukushima K. Heterocycles 1981; 16: 983
  • 23 Fedeor LR. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1969; 91: 913
  • 24 Nemet I, Varga-Defterdarovic L. Bioorg. Med. Chem. 2008; 16: 4551
  • 25 Muratore ME, Shi L, Pilling AW, Storer RI, Dixon DJ. Chem. Commun. 2012; 48: 6351
  • 26 Broberg A, Bjerketorp J, Andersson P, Sahlberg C, Levenfors JJ. Molecules 2017; 22: 1072
  • 27 Miyake F, Hashimoto M, Tonsiengsom S, Yakushijin K, Horne DA. Tetrahedron 2010; 66: 4888

Zoom Image
Figure 1 Chemical structures of pimprinols A–C
Zoom Image
Scheme 1 Wu’s synthesis of natural (+)-pimprinol A
Zoom Image
Scheme 2 Synthesis of racemic and optically active pimprinol A and C
Zoom Image
Scheme 3 Attempts at synthesis of pimprinol B (2)
Zoom Image
Scheme 4 First total synthesis of pimprinol B