Convolutamydine A: the first authenticated absolute configuration and enantioselective synthesis

The absolute configuration of (+)-convolutamydine A 1 isolated from Amathia convoluta has been unambiguously established as (R) by enantioselective synthesis, based on chiral auxiliary-directed pi-face discrimination in an allyl metal addition to (1R,2S,5R)-8-phenylmenthyl ester 7. For an independent and unequivocal proof, the absolute stereochemistry of synthetic precursor 11 en route to 1 was determined by X-ray crystallography. (c) 2006 Published by Elsevier Ltd.