A route is described for the enantioselective synthesis of (R)-(-)-complanine, a marine natural product isolated from Eurythoe complanata, and known to be a causative agent in inflammation. An organocatalytic, asymmetric oxyamination of a homoconjugated all-Z-dienal intermediate provides versatile and efficient access to the natural product.
Keywords: complanine; enantioselective synthesis; marine fireworm; nitrosoaldol; organocatalysis.