Stereoselective synthesis of the eastern quinolizidine portion of himeradine A

The synthesis of the C(15)-C(17)/N(1')-C(11') quinolizidine portion of himeradine A is disclosed. An intramolecular, heteroatom Michael addition was employed to establish the C(6') stereogenic center with high diastereoselectivity. The quinolizidine ring was constructed using microwave-induced cyclization at the N(1')-C(2') position. The C(17) stereogenic center was introduced through a diastereoselective Overman rearrangement.