Advances in the total synthesis of bis- and tris-indole alkaloids containing N-heterocyclic linker moieties
Kyra R. Dvorak, Jetze J. Tepe
Abstract
The past several years have seen an increase in the discovery and isolation of natural products of the indole alkaloid class. Bis- and tris-indole alkaloids are classes of natural products that have been shown to display diverse, potent biological activities. Of particular interest are bis- and tris-indole alkaloids containing N-heterocyclic linker moieties. It has been reported that more than 85% of biologically active compounds contain one or more heterocyclic moieties; of these, N-heterocycles have been identified as the most prevalent. The goal of this review is to provide a detailed overview of the recent advances in isolation and total synthesis of bis- and tris-indole alkaloids that contain N-heterocyclic linker moieties. The known biological activities of these natural products will also be discussed.