Synthesis of crinane utilizing an allylic sulfoxide for the construction of a hydroindole ring via vinylogous C-N bond formation.

The synthesis of crinane is disclosed via intramolecular C-N bond formation by the displacement of an allylic sulfoxonium salt. The allylic sulfide precursor was synthesized by a ring-closing metathesis reaction. The quaternary carbon stereocenter was created by alkylation of a benzylic cyanide. The allyl sulfide 14 was prepared by adding vinylmagnesium bromide to an α-chlorosulfide.