Expedient synthesis of pyrrolo[1,2-a]indoles: preparation of the core of yuremamine

Pyrrolo[1,2- a]indoles are conveniently prepared from tetrahydro-1,2-oxazines, which in turn are generated through the reaction of nitrones with 1,1-cyclopropanediesters. The synthetic route proves to be highly diastereoselective and provides access to the core of the recently discovered pyrrolo[1,2- a]indole natural product yuremamine.