Abstract

Recent advances via internal and external asymmetric induction in the asymmetric Pictet – Spengler reaction employed in the synthesis of indole alkaloids are described. Mechanistic studies on the diastereoselectivity, important reaction intermediates, possible mechanisms of the cis to trans isomerization, as well as recent organocatalytic approaches have been highlighted.

Keywords: Asymmetric Pictet, –, Spengler reaction, diastereoselective, enantioselective, indole alkaloids, organocatalysis, spiroindolenine