Synthesis of (+)-complanadine A, an inducer of neurotrophic factor excretion.

A total synthesis of the Lycopodium alkaloid (+)-complanadine A is described. Complanadine A has been shown to induce the secretion of neurotrophic factors from 1321N1 cells, promoting the differentiation of PC-12 cells. The use of a simplifying metal mediated [2+2+2] + [2+2+2] sequence using a silyl-substituted diyne and 2 equiv of the corresponding alkyne-nitrile has provided rapid access to the natural product.