Synthesis and biological activities of the marine bryozoan alkaloids convolutamines A, C and F, and lutamides A and C.

Synthesis of convolutamines and lutamides, new 2,4,6-tribromo-3-methoxyphenethylamine alkaloids isolated from Floridian marine bryozoan Amathia convoluta, was accomplished by a sequence of reactions starting from 3-hydroxyphenethylamines. Cytotoxities of the synthetic lutamides, convolutamines and their de-O-methyl derivatives were examined using drug-sensitive and -resistant P388 as well as KB cell lines. The bioassay suggests that the 2,4,6-tribromo-3-methoxyphenethylamine is an indispensable unit for detection of the activities. Additionally, a reversal of drug resistance by those alkaloids is recognized.