Molybdenum-catalyzed asymmetric allylation of 3-alkyloxindoles: application to the formal total synthesis of (-)-physostigmine.

The first example of Mo-catalyzed asymmetric allylation for the generation of quaternary stereocenters at a prochiral nucleophile is reported. A variety of 3-alkyl oxindoles can be alkylated with high yields and enantioselectivity. This method provides expedited access to (-)-physostigmine and its analogues.