A synthesis of the welwistatin core

Abstract

[Structure: see text] An approach to the core structure of the microtubule-targeting agent welwistatin is described. The approach utilizes the type 2 intramolecular Diels-Alder reaction, with indole serving as the tether between diene and dienophile, to form the natural product's characteristic bicyclo[4.3.1]decane skeleton.