Chemistry Seminar Series: Dr. Michael Kerr

Abstract:  We have developed methods for the efficient functionalization of the indole moiety at either the 3- or 2-posiiton using carbenoids or radicals derived from 1,3-dicarbonyl species.¹  Recent progress in methods development will be discussed as well as the application of these methods to the synthesis of natural products both completed² and in progress. 

1. [1] a) Johansen, M.B.; Kerr, M.A. Direct Functionalization of Indoles: Copper-Catalyzed Malonyl Carbenoid Insertions. Org. Lett. 2010, 12, 4956. b) Magolan, J.; Kerr, M.A. Expanding the Scope of Mn(OAc)3-Mediated Cyclizations: Synthesis of the Tetracyclic Core of Tronocarpine. Org. Lett. 2006, 8, 4561. c) Gibe, R.; Kerr, M.A.  Convenient preparation of indolyl malonates via carbenoid insertion.  J. Org. Chem. 2002, 67, 6247-6249. 

2. Magolan, J; Carson, C.A.; Kerr, M.A.  Total synthesis of (+/-)-mersicarpine.  Org. Lett., 2008, 10 1437.