Synthetic Studies on Tetracyclic Diquinane Lycopodium Alkaloids Magellanine, Magellaninone and Paniculatine

(–)-Magellanine, (+)-magellaninone, and (+)-paniculatine are three natural products isolated from the Lycopodium family that share a unique 6-5-5-6-fused tetracyclic diquinane core skeleton. Several members of this family have potent s anti-inflammatory and acetylcholinesterase-inhibitory properties and are under development for the treatment of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. Several research groups have undertaken the formal and total syntheses of this class of natural products. This review highlights over 20 reported total syntheses of these three alkaloids and the development of synthetic methods for the assembly of their core skeletons.


Introduction
The lycopodium alkaloids, isolated from the club moss Lycopodium and named by Linnaeus in 1753, represent a class of several-hundred natural products that were divided by Backer into the following four sub-families based on their secondary metabolites [1]: lycodine, lycopodine, fawcettimine, and miscellaneous (such as huperzine A and annotine) ( Figure 1). They have attractive biological and chemical properties. Some members of this family display potent inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase, which is the key brain enzyme responsible for the rapid degradation of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine [2,3]. This inhibition delays the hydrolysis of acetylcholine, thus increasing its levels in the synaptic cleft. Therefore, many members of the lycopodium family have been explored for the treatment of Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases [1].

Introduction
The lycopodium alkaloids, isolated from the club moss Lycopodium and named by Linnaeus in 1753, represent a class of several-hundred natural products that were divided by Backer into the following four sub-families based on their secondary metabolites [1]: lycodine, lycopodine, fawcettimine, and miscellaneous (such as huperzine A and annotine) (Figure 1). They have attractive biological and chemical properties. Some members of this family display potent inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase, which is the key brain enzyme responsible for the rapid degradation of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine [2,3]. This inhibition delays the hydrolysis of acetylcholine, thus increasing its levels in the synaptic cleft. Therefore, many members of the lycopodium family have been explored for the treatment of Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases [1]. The literature suggests that huperzine A (lycodine-type), annotine (miscellaneoustype), and related compounds could be used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases due to their ability to induce anti-inflammatory effects through the mitigation of cytokine expression. Huperzine A inhibits cytoplasmic IκBα degradation and nuclear factor-KB (NF-KB) translocation, while annotine multifunctionally decreases IL-2 and IL-6 cytokine expression in dendritic cells, and, conversely, increases IL-10 secretion and promotes Tcell maturation directed toward a Th2/Treg phenotype [4,5]. Similar anti-inflammatory effects ameliorate the pathogenesis of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by The literature suggests that huperzine A (lycodine-type), annotine (miscellaneoustype), and related compounds could be used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases due to their ability to induce anti-inflammatory effects through the mitigation of cytokine expression. Huperzine A inhibits cytoplasmic IκBα degradation and nuclear factor-KB (NF-KB) translocation, while annotine multifunctionally decreases IL-2 and IL-6 cytokine expression in dendritic cells, and, conversely, increases IL-10 secretion and promotes T-cell maturation directed toward a Th2/Treg phenotype [4,5]. Similar anti-inflammatory effects ameliorate the pathogenesis of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by decreasing inflammatory cell infiltration in the spinal cord through the inhibition of chemokine ligand 2 production [6]. Furthermore, studies show that lycopodium alkaloids confer an significant To the best of our knowledge, no significant biological studies have been conducted on 1-3. However, several synthetic reports suggest that due to the structural similarities between these three compounds and others in the lycopodium family, c could also possess strong inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase, if not against other targets.
In this review, we wish to describe several reported syntheses of 1-3 through an initial introduction of each report's retrosynthesis, followed by a description of the synthetic route designed for the construction of these complex natural products. Attention is paid to the key steps of the total synthesis. In addition, we also briefly highlight several other notable syntheses for the construction of the ring systems.

Early Synthetic Efforts from 1986-1993
Before describing the reported total syntheses of (-)-magellanine, (+)-magellaninone, and (+)-paniculatine (1)(2)(3), it is worth highlighting some of the efforts before Overman's 1993 landmark total synthesis due to their unique strategies in the context of constructing the tetracyclic framework that defines these diquinane alkaloids. Of course, several other synthetic studies have been reported throughout the years between 1993 and the present [12][13][14], some of which will be briefly discussed in Section 4. In lieu of traditional retrosynthetic analyses for these syntheses described in Section 2, a condensed scheme will be shown to highlight the key transformations utilized in these strategies.

Paquette's 1986 Synthesis
In 1986, Paquette and coworkers first reported a synthetic method to construct the central 5-5-fused bicyclic core, fitted with appropriate functionalities that would later be elaborated (Scheme 1) [15]. The model study was initiated by a 1,4-addition on cyclopentenone 4 with 1,3-dithiane carbanion 5, liberated from its sodium salt [16]. A similar chemistry had been developed by Heathcock and coworkers [17], wherein they utilized the ketal for conjugate addition. Via the treatment of 6 with dilute HCl, a mixture of four or more products emerged; the two of interest are shown above. For the two ßhydroxy-ketone enantiomers of 7, unique conditions were applied for their elimination to form 8. For the (S)-enantiomer, a simple conversion of the hydroxy group to its mesylate To the best of our knowledge, no significant biological studies have been conducted on 1-3. However, several synthetic reports suggest that due to the structural similarities between these three compounds and others in the lycopodium family, c could also possess strong inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase, if not against other targets.
In this review, we wish to describe several reported syntheses of 1-3 through an initial introduction of each report's retrosynthesis, followed by a description of the synthetic route designed for the construction of these complex natural products. Attention is paid to the key steps of the total synthesis. In addition, we also briefly highlight several other notable syntheses for the construction of the ring systems.

Early Synthetic Efforts from 1986-1993
Before describing the reported total syntheses of (-)-magellanine, (+)-magellaninone, and (+)-paniculatine (1)(2)(3), it is worth highlighting some of the efforts before Overman's 1993 landmark total synthesis due to their unique strategies in the context of constructing the tetracyclic framework that defines these diquinane alkaloids. Of course, several other synthetic studies have been reported throughout the years between 1993 and the present [12][13][14], some of which will be briefly discussed in Section 4. In lieu of traditional retrosynthetic analyses for these syntheses described in Section 2, a condensed scheme will be shown to highlight the key transformations utilized in these strategies.

Paquette's 1986 Synthesis
In 1986, Paquette and coworkers first reported a synthetic method to construct the central 5-5-fused bicyclic core, fitted with appropriate functionalities that would later be elaborated (Scheme 1) [15]. The model study was initiated by a 1,4-addition on cyclopentenone 4 with 1,3-dithiane carbanion 5, liberated from its sodium salt [16]. A similar chemistry had been developed by Heathcock and coworkers [17], wherein they utilized the ketal for conjugate addition. Via the treatment of 6 with dilute HCl, a mixture of four or more products emerged; the two of interest are shown above. For the two ß-hydroxyketone enantiomers of 7, unique conditions were applied for their elimination to form 8. For the (S)-enantiomer, a simple conversion of the hydroxy group to its mesylate followed by elimination with triethylamine afforded 8 at an 82% yield. On the other hand, the (R)-enantiomer underwent elimination through the Mitsunobu conditions [18], with PPh 3 and DEAD, to afford 8 in 69% yield. This sequence results in pseudo-bicyclic pentanone 8 Molecules 2023, 28, 1501 3 of 23 in a 32-38% yield over the three steps. However, one drawback they had encountered was that the α,ß-unsaturation in the indicated position is unfavored due to ring strain, similar to that observed by Agosta and Wolff [19]. Via treatment with DBN, Paquette and coworkers found that the double bond readily isomerizes to the ß,γ-position. This posed a hurdle that would later be tackled in their 1993/94 synthesis, which is described in this review; the enone functionality is pivotal to efficiently constructing the rest of molecules 1 and 2.
Molecules 2022, 27, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 25 followed by elimination with triethylamine afforded 8 at an 82% yield. On the other hand, the (R)-enantiomer underwent elimination through the Mitsunobu conditions [18], with PPh3 and DEAD, to afford 8 in 69% yield. This sequence results in pseudo-bicyclic pentanone 8 in a 32-38% yield over the three steps. However, one drawback they had encountered was that the α,ß-unsaturation in the indicated position is unfavored due to ring strain, similar to that observed by Agosta and Wolff [19]. Via treatment with DBN, Paquette and coworkers found that the double bond readily isomerizes to the ß,γ-position. This posed a hurdle that would later be tackled in their 1993/94 synthesis, which is described in this review; the enone functionality is pivotal to efficiently constructing the rest of molecules 1 and 2. Scheme 1. Paquette's 1986 synthesis. HMPA = hexamethylphosphoramide. TEA = triethylamine. DEAD = diethyl azodicarboxylate. THF = tetrahydrofuran.

Overman's 1989 Synthesis
In 1989, Overman and coworkers, on the basis of their previous work involving a cationic cyclization-pinacol rearrangement that was undertaken to construct oxygen heterocycles [20,21], reported a "ring-enlarging cyclopentane annulation" sequence to construct the 6-5-5-fused tricyclic ring system 14 found in 1-3 (Scheme 2A) [22]. This unique transformation is initiated by 1,3-proton transfer, shown in 9, which subsequently undergoes pinacol rearrangement (through intermediate 10) to form the exo-aldotetrahydrofuran ring of 11. Dimethyl-acetal 12 exploits this chemistry to stereoselectively construct the 6-5-5-tricyclic core at an 80% yield over one step (Scheme 2B). The pinacol rearrangement builds the northern cyclopentane ring as a single diastereomer, while the stereochemistry of the methoxy group is influenced by the geometry of the silyl enol ether. The use of the ß-isomer yields the α-methoxy as a single enantiomer, while the use of the α-silane results in a 2:1 mixture of the α-and ß-appendages. Further oxidation is also exemplified to form diketone 14. Similar to Paquette's report, Overman and coworkers continued their synthesis, which is examined later in this review, to achieve the first total synthesis of 1 and 2.

Overman's 1989 Synthesis
In 1989, Overman and coworkers, on the basis of their previous work involving a cationic cyclization-pinacol rearrangement that was undertaken to construct oxygen heterocycles [20,21], reported a "ring-enlarging cyclopentane annulation" sequence to construct the 6-5-5-fused tricyclic ring system 14 found in 1-3 (Scheme 2A) [22]. This unique transformation is initiated by 1,3-proton transfer, shown in 9, which subsequently undergoes pinacol rearrangement (through intermediate 10) to form the exo-aldo-tetrahydrofuran ring of 11. Dimethyl-acetal 12 exploits this chemistry to stereoselectively construct the 6-5-5-tricyclic core at an 80% yield over one step (Scheme 2B). The pinacol rearrangement builds the northern cyclopentane ring as a single diastereomer, while the stereochemistry of the methoxy group is influenced by the geometry of the silyl enol ether. The use of the ß-isomer yields the α-methoxy as a single enantiomer, while the use of the α-silane results in a 2:1 mixture of the αand ß-appendages. Further oxidation is also exemplified to form diketone 14. Similar to Paquette's report, Overman and coworkers continued their synthesis, which is examined later in this review, to achieve the first total synthesis of 1 and 2.
followed by elimination with triethylamine afforded 8 at an 82% yield. On the other hand, the (R)-enantiomer underwent elimination through the Mitsunobu conditions [18], with PPh3 and DEAD, to afford 8 in 69% yield. This sequence results in pseudo-bicyclic pentanone 8 in a 32-38% yield over the three steps. However, one drawback they had encountered was that the α,ß-unsaturation in the indicated position is unfavored due to ring strain, similar to that observed by Agosta and Wolff [19]. Via treatment with DBN, Paquette and coworkers found that the double bond readily isomerizes to the ß,γ-position. This posed a hurdle that would later be tackled in their 1993/94 synthesis, which is described in this review; the enone functionality is pivotal to efficiently constructing the rest of molecules 1 and 2. Scheme 1. Paquette's 1986 synthesis. HMPA = hexamethylphosphoramide. TEA = triethylamine. DEAD = diethyl azodicarboxylate. THF = tetrahydrofuran.

Overman's 1989 Synthesis
In 1989, Overman and coworkers, on the basis of their previous work involving a cationic cyclization-pinacol rearrangement that was undertaken to construct oxygen heterocycles [20,21], reported a "ring-enlarging cyclopentane annulation" sequence to construct the 6-5-5-fused tricyclic ring system 14 found in 1-3 (Scheme 2A) [22]. This unique transformation is initiated by 1,3-proton transfer, shown in 9, which subsequently undergoes pinacol rearrangement (through intermediate 10) to form the exo-aldotetrahydrofuran ring of 11. Dimethyl-acetal 12 exploits this chemistry to stereoselectively construct the 6-5-5-tricyclic core at an 80% yield over one step (Scheme 2B). The pinacol rearrangement builds the northern cyclopentane ring as a single diastereomer, while the stereochemistry of the methoxy group is influenced by the geometry of the silyl enol ether. The use of the ß-isomer yields the α-methoxy as a single enantiomer, while the use of the α-silane results in a 2:1 mixture of the α-and ß-appendages. Further oxidation is also exemplified to form diketone 14. Similar to Paquette's report, Overman and coworkers continued their synthesis, which is examined later in this review, to achieve the first total synthesis of 1 and 2.

Mehta's 1987 and 1990 Syntheses
In 1987 and again in 1990, Mehta and coworkers reported their synthetic efforts towards the construction of the carbon framework of 1-3. For their 1987 strategy [23], readily accessible acetal 15 was alkylated via conjugate addition with an alkyl Grignard reagent (Scheme 3). Consequently, a series of five steps was employed to construct the pseudo-tetracyclic scaffold of 17. First, 16 was converted to its corresponding enone via a selenylation-selenoxide elimination sequence with the unsaturation resulting in the southernmost C-C bond of the cyclopentanone ring. Wacker oxidation of the terminal olefin to the methyl ketone was performed using Tsuji conditions [24], after which exposure to basic conditions gave rise to an intramolecular Michael addition to construct the sixmembered ring. The resulting ketone was selectively capped through the Wittig conditions to afford exo-methylene 17. This is a key handle that they envisioned would be required for the synthesis of 1-3.

Mehta's 1987 and 1990 Syntheses
In 1987 and again in 1990, Mehta and coworkers reported their synthetic efforts towards the construction of the carbon framework of 1-3. For their 1987 strategy [23], readily accessible acetal 15 was alkylated via conjugate addition with an alkyl Grignard reagent (Scheme 3). Consequently, a series of five steps was employed to construct the pseudo-tetracyclic scaffold of 17. First, 16 was converted to its corresponding enone via a selenylation-selenoxide elimination sequence with the unsaturation resulting in the southernmost C-C bond of the cyclopentanone ring. Wacker oxidation of the terminal olefin to the methyl ketone was performed using Tsuji conditions [24], after which exposure to basic conditions gave rise to an intramolecular Michael addition to construct the six-membered ring. The resulting ketone was selectively capped through the Wittig conditions to afford exo-methylene 17. This is a key handle that they envisioned would be required for the synthesis of 1-3. Several years later, Mehta's group developed a new approach that used a highly constrained pentacyclic dione to construct the 5-5-5-fused tricyclic intermediate 20 as their key molecule to build the core tetracyclic scaffold (Scheme 4) [25]. First, over six steps, dione 18 was converted to ketone 19, which was then subjected to a thermally induced [2+2]-cycloreversion reaction under flash vacuum pyrolysis and a transposition of the enone to reveal 20 [26]. Over the course of the next four steps, the southern portion of 20 was elaborated to construct the cyclohexanone moiety in 21, which, after another four steps, resulted in diketone 22, with the methyl-piperidine incorporated. The construction of the cyclohexanone ring is fairly similar to the aforementioned 1987 strategy, but differs at the last stage, wherein the ketone was kept intact as opposed to the Wittig route involving the capping of the ketone. The stereochemistry of 21 follows from the established literature that bicyclo [3.3.0]octanes predominantly react on the convex face, driven by the pseudo-axial proton, which is vicinal to the all-carbon quaternary center. With 22 in hand, Mehta and coworkers envisioned the completion of 1-3, albeit with no reported success (to the best our knowledge).  Several years later, Mehta's group developed a new approach that used a highly constrained pentacyclic dione to construct the 5-5-5-fused tricyclic intermediate 20 as their key molecule to build the core tetracyclic scaffold (Scheme 4) [25]. First, over six steps, dione 18 was converted to ketone 19, which was then subjected to a thermally induced [2+2]-cycloreversion reaction under flash vacuum pyrolysis and a transposition of the enone to reveal 20 [26]. Over the course of the next four steps, the southern portion of 20 was elaborated to construct the cyclohexanone moiety in 21, which, after another four steps, resulted in diketone 22, with the methyl-piperidine incorporated. The construction of the cyclohexanone ring is fairly similar to the aforementioned 1987 strategy, but differs at the last stage, wherein the ketone was kept intact as opposed to the Wittig route involving the capping of the ketone. The stereochemistry of 21 follows from the established literature that bicyclo [3.3.0]octanes predominantly react on the convex face, driven by the pseudo-axial proton, which is vicinal to the all-carbon quaternary center. With 22 in hand, Mehta and coworkers envisioned the completion of 1-3, albeit with no reported success (to the best our knowledge).

Mehta's 1987 and 1990 Syntheses
In 1987 and again in 1990, Mehta and coworkers reported their synthetic efforts towards the construction of the carbon framework of 1-3. For their 1987 strategy [23], readily accessible acetal 15 was alkylated via conjugate addition with an alkyl Grignard reagent (Scheme 3). Consequently, a series of five steps was employed to construct the pseudo-tetracyclic scaffold of 17. First, 16 was converted to its corresponding enone via a selenylation-selenoxide elimination sequence with the unsaturation resulting in the southernmost C-C bond of the cyclopentanone ring. Wacker oxidation of the terminal olefin to the methyl ketone was performed using Tsuji conditions [24], after which exposure to basic conditions gave rise to an intramolecular Michael addition to construct the six-membered ring. The resulting ketone was selectively capped through the Wittig conditions to afford exo-methylene 17. This is a key handle that they envisioned would be required for the synthesis of 1-3. Several years later, Mehta's group developed a new approach that used a highly constrained pentacyclic dione to construct the 5-5-5-fused tricyclic intermediate 20 as their key molecule to build the core tetracyclic scaffold (Scheme 4) [25]. First, over six steps, dione 18 was converted to ketone 19, which was then subjected to a thermally induced [2+2]-cycloreversion reaction under flash vacuum pyrolysis and a transposition of the enone to reveal 20 [26]. Over the course of the next four steps, the southern portion of 20 was elaborated to construct the cyclohexanone moiety in 21, which, after another four steps, resulted in diketone 22, with the methyl-piperidine incorporated. The construction of the cyclohexanone ring is fairly similar to the aforementioned 1987 strategy, but differs at the last stage, wherein the ketone was kept intact as opposed to the Wittig route involving the capping of the ketone. The stereochemistry of 21 follows from the established literature that bicyclo [3.3.0]octanes predominantly react on the convex face, driven by the pseudo-axial proton, which is vicinal to the all-carbon quaternary center. With 22 in hand, Mehta and coworkers envisioned the completion of 1-3, albeit with no reported success (to the best our knowledge).

Crimmins' 1993 Synthesis
In 1993, Crimmins and coworkers reported a cycloaddition strategy as a potential precursor for the complete or partial construction of the tetracyclic scaffold of 1-3 (Scheme 5) [27]. In their approach, carboxylic acid 23 was first transformed in a lengthy but stereoselective 17-step synthesis to obtain 24. Consequently, a [2+2]-photoinduced cycloaddition took place with irradiation in the near-UV range to afford 25 [28]. This intramolecular cycloaddition is the first example of its kind that demonstrates asymmetric induction directed by a stereocenter on a four-carbon tether [29,30]. With four stereo-centers, there are 16 conformations (eight chair and eight boat) in which the substrates can interact. The anti-intermediate is primarily in a boat conformation, which places the hydroxyl and methyl groups in the energetically favorable equatorial positions. However, the syn-photosubstrate reacts in a chair confirmation, which puts the hydroxyl and methyl groups in the axial positions. This gives rise to the mixture of diastereomers found in this reaction, centered around the 4-6-fused ring system. Similar to Mehta, Crimmins and coworkers envisioned that this strategy could be applied to the total synthesis of 1-3, but no reports have been published to the best of our knowledge.
In 1993, Crimmins and coworkers reported a cycloaddition strategy as a potential precursor for the complete or partial construction of the tetracyclic scaffold of 1-3 (Scheme 5) [27]. In their approach, carboxylic acid 23 was first transformed in a lengthy but stereoselective 17-step synthesis to obtain 24. Consequently, a [2+2]-photoinduced cycloaddition took place with irradiation in the near-UV range to afford 25 [28]. This intramolecular cycloaddition is the first example of its kind that demonstrates asymmetric induction directed by a stereocenter on a four-carbon tether [29,30]. With four stereocenters, there are 16 conformations (eight chair and eight boat) in which the substrates can interact. The anti-intermediate is primarily in a boat conformation, which places the hydroxyl and methyl groups in the energetically favorable equatorial positions. However, the syn-photosubstrate reacts in a chair confirmation, which puts the hydroxyl and methyl groups in the axial positions. This gives rise to the mixture of diastereomers found in this reaction, centered around the 4-6-fused ring system. Similar to Mehta, Crimmins and coworkers envisioned that this strategy could be applied to the total synthesis of 1-3, but no reports have been published to the best of our knowledge.

Total Synthesis of Magellanine, Magellaninone, and Paniculatine (1-3)
This section describes the total syntheses of 1-3. Ten research groups' studies reported between 1993 and 2022 are highlighted.
This transformation was to be stereocontrolled so that Prins cyclization would occur on the convex face of the cis-fused bicycle 27, as illustrated. It was thought that 28 was constructed from the 1,2-addition of bicyclic vinyllithium 29 onto ketone 30; the latter traced back to an enantiopure bicyclo[3.2.0]heptenone substrate 31.

Total Synthesis of Magellanine, Magellaninone, and Paniculatine (1-3)
This section describes the total syntheses of 1-3. Ten research groups' studies reported between 1993 and 2022 are highlighted.

Overman's 1993 Synthesis of (-)-Magellanine and (+)-Magellaninone
Four years after their initial report, Overman and coworkers reported the first asymmetric total synthesis of (-)-magellanine (1) and (+)-magellaninone (2) in 25 and 26 steps, respectively [31]. As seen in the retrosynthesis (Scheme 6), they envisioned that the tetracyclic skeleton of 1 and 2, outlined in 26, could be constructed by their previously developed Prins-pinacol rearrangement of acetal 28 through oxonium intermediate 27. This transformation was to be stereocontrolled so that Prins cyclization would occur on the convex face of the cis-fused bicycle 27, as illustrated. It was thought that 28 was constructed from the 1,2-addition of bicyclic vinyllithium 29 onto ketone 30; the latter traced back to an enantiopure bicyclo[3.2.0]heptenone substrate 31.
In 1993, Crimmins and coworkers reported a cycloaddition strategy as a potential precursor for the complete or partial construction of the tetracyclic scaffold of 1-3 (Scheme 5) [27]. In their approach, carboxylic acid 23 was first transformed in a lengthy but stereoselective 17-step synthesis to obtain 24. Consequently, a [2+2]-photoinduced cycloaddition took place with irradiation in the near-UV range to afford 25 [28]. This intramolecular cycloaddition is the first example of its kind that demonstrates asymmetric induction directed by a stereocenter on a four-carbon tether [29,30]. With four stereocenters, there are 16 conformations (eight chair and eight boat) in which the substrates can interact. The anti-intermediate is primarily in a boat conformation, which places the hydroxyl and methyl groups in the energetically favorable equatorial positions. However, the syn-photosubstrate reacts in a chair confirmation, which puts the hydroxyl and methyl groups in the axial positions. This gives rise to the mixture of diastereomers found in this reaction, centered around the 4-6-fused ring system. Similar to Mehta, Crimmins and coworkers envisioned that this strategy could be applied to the total synthesis of 1-3, but no reports have been published to the best of our knowledge.

Total Synthesis of Magellanine, Magellaninone, and Paniculatine (1-3)
This section describes the total syntheses of 1-3. Ten research groups' studies reported between 1993 and 2022 are highlighted.
This transformation was to be stereocontrolled so that Prins cyclization would occur on the convex face of the cis-fused bicycle 27, as illustrated. It was thought that 28 was constructed from the 1,2-addition of bicyclic vinyllithium 29 onto ketone 30; the latter traced back to an enantiopure bicyclo[3.2.0]heptenone substrate 31. The synthesis commenced with the preparation of dimethylacetal 28 through five steps (Scheme 7). This sequence, while not shown, includes a regioselective ring expansion of (+)-31, as described by Cohen [32,33], and the conversion of the resulting α-methylthioketone to a vinyl triflate, which was then converted to vinyl iodide with N-iodosuccinimide [34]. The iodide was lithiated and then added to cyclopentanone 30 (vide supra) which was subsequently transformed to 28 through standard functional group manipulation protocols.
The synthesis commenced with the preparation of dimethylacetal 28 through five steps (Scheme 7). This sequence, while not shown, includes a regioselective ring expansion of (+)-31, as described by Cohen [32,33], and the conversion of the resulting αmethylthioketone to a vinyl triflate, which was then converted to vinyl iodide with Niodosuccinimide [34]. The iodide was lithiated and then added to cyclopentanone 30 (vide supra) which was subsequently transformed to 28 through standard functional group manipulation protocols. With enantiopure 28 in hand, the key Prins-pinacol rearrangement was executed. This rearrangement occurs via the acid-catalyzed demethoxylation of acetal to form a methoxycation, which then undergoes cyclization with the proximal olefin to complete the Prins reaction. In the presence of an allylic silyl-ether, the Prins reaction can cascade into a Pinacol rearrangement to eliminate the silyl group and form a ketone. The beauty of this transformation is the establishment of five of the six stereocenters found in 1 and 2 with complete stereocontrol throughout the sequence.
With the tetracyclic 6-5-5-5-fused skeleton constructed, the last major hurdle was the construction of the piperidine from the cyclopentene ring. This was performed via the oxidative cleavage of the double bond with osmium tetroxide [35], followed by double reductive amination of the resulting di-aldehyde with a primary amine to afford 32 [36]. To complete the total synthesis of 1 and 2, intermediate 32 was first transformed over three steps to achieve 1, namely, through a Saegusa-Ito oxidation to install the α,ß-unsaturated ketone [37]. Through this sequence, they were able obtain a separable mixture of 1 and 33 as C5-epimers, which, fortunately, could be oxidized with Jones conditions to afford 2 in one step.

Paquette's 1993/1994 Synthesis of (-)-Magellanine and (+)-Magellaninone
First in 1993 and later in 1994, Paquette and coworkers reported the total synthesis of 1 and 2 through a three-fold annulation strategy [38,39]. By examining the retrosynthesis (Scheme 8), tetracyclic precursor 34 could be derived from 35 through a tandem vicinal 1,4-difunctionalization annulation initiated by a nitrogen-containing nucleophile [40]. The six-membered ring in 35 was thought to be constructed from 36 through a dual Michael ring annulation, encapsulating the three-fold annulation strategy. This was the method of choice, as opposed to a more conventional Diels-Alder sequence, to obtain the correct regioselectivity of the double bond and the oxygenated carbon atom. This retrosynthesis scheme takes advantage of a reliable method to control stereochemistry at each step, with the safety net of a kinetic resolution to resolve a mixture of enantiomers. With enantiopure 28 in hand, the key Prins-pinacol rearrangement was executed. This rearrangement occurs via the acid-catalyzed demethoxylation of acetal to form a methoxycation, which then undergoes cyclization with the proximal olefin to complete the Prins reaction. In the presence of an allylic silyl-ether, the Prins reaction can cascade into a Pinacol rearrangement to eliminate the silyl group and form a ketone. The beauty of this transformation is the establishment of five of the six stereocenters found in 1 and 2 with complete stereocontrol throughout the sequence.
With the tetracyclic 6-5-5-5-fused skeleton constructed, the last major hurdle was the construction of the piperidine from the cyclopentene ring. This was performed via the oxidative cleavage of the double bond with osmium tetroxide [35], followed by double reductive amination of the resulting di-aldehyde with a primary amine to afford 32 [36]. To complete the total synthesis of 1 and 2, intermediate 32 was first transformed over three steps to achieve 1, namely, through a Saegusa-Ito oxidation to install the α,ß-unsaturated ketone [37]. Through this sequence, they were able obtain a separable mixture of 1 and 33 as C5-epimers, which, fortunately, could be oxidized with Jones conditions to afford 2 in one step.

Paquette's 1993/1994 Synthesis of (-)-Magellanine and (+)-Magellaninone
First in 1993 and later in 1994, Paquette and coworkers reported the total synthesis of 1 and 2 through a three-fold annulation strategy [38,39]. By examining the retrosynthesis (Scheme 8), tetracyclic precursor 34 could be derived from 35 through a tandem vicinal 1,4-difunctionalization annulation initiated by a nitrogen-containing nucleophile [40]. The six-membered ring in 35 was thought to be constructed from 36 through a dual Michael ring annulation, encapsulating the three-fold annulation strategy. This was the method of choice, as opposed to a more conventional Diels-Alder sequence, to obtain the correct regioselectivity of the double bond and the oxygenated carbon atom. This retrosynthesis scheme takes advantage of a reliable method to control stereochemistry at each step, with the safety net of a kinetic resolution to resolve a mixture of enantiomers. To commence its synthesis (Scheme 9), ß -hydroxy ketone 37 was first mesylated and eliminated to form the α,ß-unsaturated enone, to which α,ß-unsaturated keto-ester 42 was added under basic conditions to afford pseudo-tricyclic 38 [41,42]. The stereochemistry of the annulation results from two main factors: the presence of the ß -axial tertiary proton in the diquinane scaffold that makes the same (bottom) face sterically unfavorable, and the To commence its synthesis (Scheme 9), ß-hydroxy ketone 37 was first mesylated and eliminated to form the α,ß-unsaturated enone, to which α,ß-unsaturated keto-ester 42 was added under basic conditions to afford pseudo-tricyclic 38 [41,42]. The stereochemistry of the annulation results from two main factors: the presence of the ß-axial tertiary proton in the diquinane scaffold that makes the same (bottom) face sterically unfavorable, and the strong thermodynamic favorability of the 5-5-fused ring system towards being cisrather than trans-fused [43,44]. Thus, 42 is added onto the top face, which produces the shown desired configuration. Enol 38 was then subjected to acidic conditions to promote ß-elimination. This was followed by a Krapcho decarboxylation to yield enedione 39 [45]. To commence its synthesis (Scheme 9), ß -hydroxy ketone 37 was first mesylated and eliminated to form the α,ß-unsaturated enone, to which α,ß-unsaturated keto-ester 42 was added under basic conditions to afford pseudo-tricyclic 38 [41,42]. The stereochemistry of the annulation results from two main factors: the presence of the ß -axial tertiary proton in the diquinane scaffold that makes the same (bottom) face sterically unfavorable, and the strong thermodynamic favorability of the 5-5-fused ring system towards being cis-rather than trans-fused [43,44]. Thus, 42 is added onto the top face, which produces the shown desired configuration. Enol 38 was then subjected to acidic conditions to promote ßelimination. This was followed by a Krapcho decarboxylation to yield enedione 39 [45]. With a reliable method to construct the pseudo-tricyclic scaffold with the proper functionalities in place, a ten-step sequence was performed to construct tricyclic 40. While not shown, this tedious stepwise process included: the conversion of a cyclohexanone moiety to an α,ß-unsaturated, MOM-protected hydroxy group; the conversion of the 1,3dithiane to a MOM-protected alcohol; and then the careful transformation of the cyclopentenone ring to a 2-ethylnitrile methylester, resulting in intermediate 40. With 40 constructed, the piperidone ring was constructed through an established protocol to afford 41. The use of NaBH4 and Co(Cl)2 selectively reduces nitriles to their corresponding primary amines [46][47][48], which were subjected to basic conditions to form the lactam and, subsequently, treated with methyliodide to form the signature methylamide found in 1 and 2.
To complete the synthesis of 1, an eight-step sequence was performed. Among others, a notable transformation was the conversion of the protected α,ß-unsaturated alcohol to an ß-methyl enone, taking note of the new connectivity of the oxygen atoms. This allylic rearrangement was performed to shift a secondary alcohol two carbons over, which was then oxidized to form the ketone via Jones oxidation. With enedione 2 in hand, two steps were performed to obtain 1, with one such step consisting of a hydride reduction, which With a reliable method to construct the pseudo-tricyclic scaffold with the proper functionalities in place, a ten-step sequence was performed to construct tricyclic 40. While not shown, this tedious stepwise process included: the conversion of a cyclohexanone moiety to an α,ß-unsaturated, MOM-protected hydroxy group; the conversion of the 1,3-dithiane to a MOM-protected alcohol; and then the careful transformation of the cyclopentenone ring to a 2-ethylnitrile methylester, resulting in intermediate 40. With 40 constructed, the piperidone ring was constructed through an established protocol to afford 41. The use of NaBH 4 and Co(Cl) 2 selectively reduces nitriles to their corresponding primary amines [46][47][48], which were subjected to basic conditions to form the lactam and, subsequently, treated with methyliodide to form the signature methylamide found in 1 and 2.
To complete the synthesis of 1, an eight-step sequence was performed. Among others, a notable transformation was the conversion of the protected α,ß-unsaturated alcohol to an ß-methyl enone, taking note of the new connectivity of the oxygen atoms. This allylic rearrangement was performed to shift a secondary alcohol two carbons over, which was then oxidized to form the ketone via Jones oxidation. With enedione 2 in hand, two steps were performed to obtain 1, with one such step consisting of a hydride reduction, which inadvertently formed the incorrect hydroxy stereocenter; however, conventional Mitsunobu displacement and elimination resulted in epimerization [49].

Sha's 1999 Synthesis of (+)-Paniculatine
In 1999, the third member of this sub-family of Lycopodium alkaloids, (+)-paniculatine, was synthesized by Sha and coworkers for the first time [50]. This builds off their previous work involving the utilization of α-carbonyl radical cyclization reactions to efficiently construct complex natural products [51][52][53]. In their retrosynthetic analysis, they believed that the piperidine ring of 3 could be constructed from a 1,4-addition of an acetate fragment, followed by nitrogen insertion, utilizing methylamine as a linchpin (Scheme 10). Furthermore, tricyclic enone 43 was thought to be accessible from enedione 44, itself being traced back to 45 via a tandem radical cyclization, to close the 5-5-fused diquinane core. Iodide 45 could be simply stitched together with 1,4-addition of Grignard reagent 47 onto enone 46 [54].

Sha's 1999 Synthesis of (+)-Paniculatine
In 1999, the third member of this sub-family of Lycopodium alkaloids, (+)-paniculatine, was synthesized by Sha and coworkers for the first time [50]. This builds off their previous work involving the utilization of α-carbonyl radical cyclization reactions to efficiently construct complex natural products [51][52][53]. In their retrosynthetic analysis, they believed that the piperidine ring of 3 could be constructed from a 1,4-addition of an acetate fragment, followed by nitrogen insertion, utilizing methylamine as a linchpin (Scheme 10). Furthermore, tricyclic enone 43 was thought to be accessible from enedione 44, itself being traced back to 45 via a tandem radical cyclization, to close the 5-5-fused diquinane core. Iodide 45 could be simply stitched together with 1,4-addition of Grignard reagent 47 onto enone 46 [54]. To commence their synthesis, Sha and coworkers constructed iodide 45 from 46 through the following procedure: Cu(I)-mediated 1,4-addition of 47 onto 46, followed by trapping with TMSCl, and iodination with NaI/m-CPBA to yield 45 at a 67% yield over two steps [55,56] (Scheme 11). This set the stage for their previously developed and optimized tandem radical cyclization with Bu3SnH and AIBN to yield tricyclic intermediate 44 at an 82% yield with the correct stereochemistry. With enedione 44 in hand, a series of 11 steps was utilized to construct enone 48 with a γ-TBS-silyl enol ether. Then, a five-step sequence occurred to yield 50. First, the TBS-methyl ketene acetal underwent a stereoselective Mukaiyama-Michael addition to enone 48 [57], followed by the removal of the TBS group with acetic acid, and lastly Jones oxidation of the resulting primary alcohol to the corresponding carboxylic acid. As expected, the 1,4-addition occurred on the less-hindered face, which led to the construction of a carboxylic acid intermediate (not shown here) at a 62% yield over three steps in the correct stereochemistry. From there, the acylation of carboxylic acid 49 with oxalyl To commence their synthesis, Sha and coworkers constructed iodide 45 from 46 through the following procedure: Cu(I)-mediated 1,4-addition of 47 onto 46, followed by trapping with TMSCl, and iodination with NaI/m-CPBA to yield 45 at a 67% yield over two steps [55,56] (Scheme 11). This set the stage for their previously developed and optimized tandem radical cyclization with Bu 3 SnH and AIBN to yield tricyclic intermediate 44 at an 82% yield with the correct stereochemistry. With enedione 44 in hand, a series of 11 steps was utilized to construct enone 48 with a γ-TBS-silyl enol ether. Then, a five-step sequence occurred to yield 50. First, the TBS-methyl ketene acetal underwent a stereoselective Mukaiyama-Michael addition to enone 48 [57], followed by the removal of the TBS group with acetic acid, and lastly Jones oxidation of the resulting primary alcohol to the corresponding carboxylic acid. As expected, the 1,4-addition occurred on the less-hindered face, which led to the construction of a carboxylic acid intermediate (not shown here) at a 62% yield over three steps in the correct stereochemistry. From there, the acylation of carboxylic acid 49 with oxalyl chloride and methylamine yielded amide 50, which was then transformed through four steps to yield 3 in 23 longest linear steps. chloride and methylamine yielded amide 50, which was then transformed through four steps to yield 3 in 23 longest linear steps.

Liao's 2002 Synthesis of (± )-Magellanine
In 2002, Liao and coworkers disclosed a total synthesis of 1 as a racemic mixture [58]. As there was no graphically depicted retrosynthesis in the original paper, we have taken

Liao's 2002 Synthesis of (±)-Magellanine
In 2002, Liao and coworkers disclosed a total synthesis of 1 as a racemic mixture [58]. As there was no graphically depicted retrosynthesis in the original paper, we have taken the liberty to draw a brief scheme to explain their thought process (Scheme 12). First, 1 was thought to be traced back to ketone 51 through an intramolecular cyclization with oxa-π-allyl Pd(II) intermediates and an oxidative cleavage/reductive amination sequence to construct the piperidine core. Tricyclic 51 could be constructed from tetracyclic intermediate 52, which, in turn, originated from the manipulation of a Diels-Alder adduct formed by 53 and 54. Scheme 11. Sha's 1999 Synthesis. TMSCl = trimethylsilyl chloride. AIBN = azobisisobutyronitrile. TMS = trimethylsilyl. Bn = benzyl. TBS = t-butyldimethylsilyl. THF = tetrahydrofuran. Jones oxidation = CrO3, H + . chloride and methylamine yielded amide 50, which was then transformed through four steps to yield 3 in 23 longest linear steps.

Liao's 2002 Synthesis of (± )-Magellanine
In 2002, Liao and coworkers disclosed a total synthesis of 1 as a racemic mixture [58]. As there was no graphically depicted retrosynthesis in the original paper, we have taken the liberty to draw a brief scheme to explain their thought process (Scheme 12). First, 1 was thought to be traced back to ketone 51 through an intramolecular cyclization with oxa-π-allyl Pd(II) intermediates and an oxidative cleavage/reductive amination sequence to construct the piperidine core. Tricyclic 51 could be constructed from tetracyclic intermediate 52, which, in turn, originated from the manipulation of a Diels-Alder adduct formed by 53 and 54.

Scheme 12. Liao 's retrosynthesis in 2002.
After a thorough investigation of the conditions from their previous report [59], Liao and coworkers set off to initiate a Diels-Alder-ODPM (oxa-di-π-methane) rearrangement cascade reaction [60,61], which occurs through intermediate 57 (Scheme 13). This cascade exploits the innate nature of each chemical reaction to stereoselectively construct the four contiguous stereocenters at an early stage, whose result is intermediate 52. In addition, the careful placement of an electron-withdrawing acetyl group further supplements this transformation [62]. From there, a seven-step sequence was utilized to open the cyclopropane ring, stereoselectively form the secondary alcohol, and install an allyl side. With intermediate 51 in hand, an intramolecular cyclization with oxa-π-allyl-Pd(II) intermediates took place to afford tetracyclic enone 56 at a 60% yield over three steps.

Scheme 12. Liao 's retrosynthesis in 2002.
After a thorough investigation of the conditions from their previous report [59], Liao and coworkers set off to initiate a Diels-Alder-ODPM (oxa-di-π-methane) rearrangement cascade reaction [60,61], which occurs through intermediate 57 (Scheme 13). This cascade exploits the innate nature of each chemical reaction to stereoselectively construct the four contiguous stereocenters at an early stage, whose result is intermediate 52. In addition, the careful placement of an electron-withdrawing acetyl group further supplements this transformation [62]. From there, a seven-step sequence was utilized to open the cyclopropane ring, stereoselectively form the secondary alcohol, and install an allyl side. With intermediate 51 in hand, an intramolecular cyclization with oxa-π-allyl-Pd(II) intermediates took place to afford tetracyclic enone 56 at a 60% yield over three steps. With the ABC-ring system in place, the last piece of the puzzle was to form the D ring. This was performed through oxidative cleavage with osmium tetroxide to cleave the cyclopentene ring, and then double reductive amination to construct the piperidine ring [36,63,64]. This racemic synthesis of 1 was completed in 14 steps at a 9% yield, thus constituting a significant improvement to its predecessors.

Ishizaki's 2005 Synthesis of (± )-Magellanine
In 2005, another report by Ishizaki and coworkers was published describing the formal synthesis of racemic 1 [65]. Equipped with chemistry developed in their lab regarding the intramolecular Pauson-Khand reaction of exocyclic enynes [66][67][68][69][70][71][72], they realized a novel means of constructing the ABC-rings of the magellanine-type diquinane alkaloids. First, the piperidine moiety of 1 was thought to be derived from tricyclic enone 58, whose diquinane 5-5-fused ring system could be constructed from the aforementioned Pauson-Khand reaction of 59 (Scheme 14) [73]. The amino-enyne of 59 can be accessed With the ABC-ring system in place, the last piece of the puzzle was to form the D ring. This was performed through oxidative cleavage with osmium tetroxide to cleave the cyclopentene ring, and then double reductive amination to construct the piperidine ring [36,63,64]. This racemic synthesis of 1 was completed in 14 steps at a 9% yield, thus constituting a significant improvement to its predecessors.

Ishizaki's 2005 Synthesis of (± )-Magellanine
In 2005, another report by Ishizaki and coworkers was published describing the formal synthesis of racemic 1 [65]. Equipped with chemistry developed in their lab regarding the intramolecular Pauson-Khand reaction of exocyclic enynes [66][67][68][69][70][71][72], they realized a novel means of constructing the ABC-rings of the magellanine-type diquinane alkaloids. First, the piperidine moiety of 1 was thought to be derived from tricyclic enone 58, whose diquinane 5-5-fused ring system could be constructed from the aforementioned Pauson-Khand reaction of 59 (Scheme 14) [73]. The amino-enyne of 59 can be accessed from carboxylic acid 60, for which the latter can come from the Ireland-Claisen rearrangement of α,ß-unsaturated silyl enol ether 61. Lastly, 61 can be traced back to hydroxy enone 62 [74]. To prepare for their first key transformation, acetate 61 was first synthesized from hydroxy-enone 62 over three steps (Scheme 15). With 61 in hand, the Ireland-Claisen rearrangement occurred with a subsequent LiAlH4 reduction [14,74], which furnished primary alcohol 63 at a 70% yield, over two steps. Next, the installation of the alkyl chain was performed, which brought in a latent Boc-protected amine that could be subsequently adjusted, and To prepare for their first key transformation, acetate 61 was first synthesized from hydroxy-enone 62 over three steps (Scheme 15). With 61 in hand, the Ireland-Claisen rearrangement occurred with a subsequent LiAlH 4 reduction [14,74], which furnished primary alcohol 63 at a 70% yield, over two steps. Next, the installation of the alkyl chain was performed, which brought in a latent Boc-protected amine that could be subsequently adjusted, and set up the 1,6-enyne for the Pauson-Khand annulation. After careful consideration of the conditions, enyne 59 underwent Pauson-Khand annulation under cobalt catalysis with a TMANO additive through the transition state that had been shown to furnish tricyclic enone 58 at a 35% yield [75]. From there, the endgame was straightforward: a series of functional group manipulations furnished 64, which was then transformed to (±)-1 through Liao's established condition.

Mukai's 2007 Synthesis of 1-3
In 2007, the first collective synthesis of 1-3 was reported by Mukai and coworkers [76], wherein they detailed a synthetic route to obtain advanced intermediate 65, from which point a short sequence can be applied to furnish the three target compounds (Scheme 16). Intermediate 65 can be derived from 66 through the expansion of the α-silyl cyclopentenone ring to form piperidine, in addition to introducing unsaturation in the southwestern part of the molecule. Based on work performed in their lab [77][78][79][80][81][82][83][84][85][86][87], intermediate 66 was envisaged to be derived through a cobalt-mediated Pauson-Khand reaction of bicyclic 67, for which the latter could be constructed from bicyclic enone 68. The synthesis of 68 would start from another Pauson-Khand reaction of protected 1,2-diol enyne 69.
set up the 1,6-enyne for the Pauson-Khand annulation. After careful consideration of the conditions, enyne 59 underwent Pauson-Khand annulation under cobalt catalysis with a TMANO additive through the transition state that had been shown to furnish tricyclic enone 58 at a 35% yield [75]. From there, the endgame was straightforward: a series of functional group manipulations furnished 64, which was then transformed to (±)-1 through Liao's established condition.

Mukai's 2007 Synthesis of 1-3
In 2007, the first collective synthesis of 1-3 was reported by Mukai and coworkers [76], wherein they detailed a synthetic route to obtain advanced intermediate 65, from which point a short sequence can be applied to furnish the three target compounds (Scheme 16). Intermediate 65 can be derived from 66 through the expansion of the α-silyl cyclopentenone ring to form piperidine, in addition to introducing unsaturation in the southwestern part of the molecule. Based on work performed in their lab [77][78][79][80][81][82][83][84][85][86][87] To kickstart the desired compound's synthesis, enyne 69 underwent a Pauson-Khand reaction under cobalt catalysis, which was subsequently mono-deprotected to yield 68 (Scheme 17). Extensive screening efforts surrounding the first Pauson-Khand reaction were undertaken, with Sugihara's conditions affording 68 with a good yield and stereoselectivity [88]. From there, a 16-step sequence was performed to construct 67 and set the stage for the second Pauson-Khand reaction. This sequence, which is not depicted, started with Ueno-Stork cyclization and subsequent allylation to form a γ-allyl lactone ring [89]. The lactone was then opened to form the diol, while the allyl group was truncated by one carbon to form a vinyl appendage. From there, standard functional group manipulations converted the diol to SEM-protected hydroxy alkyne 67. With 67 stereoselectively constructed, the second Pauson-Khand reaction took place to construct tetracyclic enone 68 at a 79% yield. To kickstart the desired compound's synthesis, enyne 69 underwent a Pauson-Khand reaction under cobalt catalysis, which was subsequently mono-deprotected to yield 68 (Scheme 17). Extensive screening efforts surrounding the first Pauson-Khand reaction were undertaken, with Sugihara's conditions affording 68 with a good yield and stereoselectivity [88]. From there, a 16-step sequence was performed to construct 67 and set the stage for the second Pauson-Khand reaction. This sequence, which is not depicted, started with Ueno-Stork cyclization and subsequent allylation to form a γ-allyl lactone ring [89]. The lactone was then opened to form the diol, while the allyl group was truncated by one carbon to form a vinyl appendage. From there, standard functional group manipulations converted the diol to SEM-protected hydroxy alkyne 67. With 67 stereoselectively constructed, the second Pauson-Khand reaction took place to construct tetracyclic enone 68 at a 79% yield.
Finally, the elaboration of the enone moiety to a piperidine and the introduction of the Finally, the elaboration of the enone moiety to a piperidine and the introduction of the C14-C15 unsaturation in 65 were realized through a 12-step sequence. With the advanced common intermediate 65 in hand, a series of five steps furnished 1 and 2, while a nine-step sequence was required to yield product 3.

Yang's 2014 Synthesis of 1-3
In 2014, Yang and coworkers also applied a divergent approach for the synthesis of 1-3 from a common intermediate (Scheme 18) [90], but they also recognized the difficulty that their predecessors faced in their respective syntheses in the construction of the D piperidine ring. Thus, they envisioned an ABD to ABCD ring construction approach, where the D ring would be installed at an early stage to circumvent these known issues. Thus, the three target compounds were thought to be traced back to intermediate 70-itself originating from bicyclic 71-with a piperidone appendage. The extra hydroxy group at C3 serves an important role in this synthesis. First, it is a labile group that can be removed at any point, but it is ß to a ketone, which allows for a simple intramolecular aldol condensation of diketone 71 [91]. This diketone comes from enone 72 through an annulation, for which the latter can be constructed from alkylation between 73 and 74. The synthesis commenced with the construction of 72 through the alkylation of 74 onto 73 under NaH conditions, followed by the oxidative elimination of the thiol group through the formation of a sulfoxide with m-CPBA (Scheme 19). With 72 in hand, a series of 11 steps were used to install the B ring and set the stage for the intramolecular Aldol addition. First, an allyl chain was installed via conjugate addition of allyl-TMS onto enone 72, followed by the dihydroxylation of the allyl double bond utilizing osmium tetroxide. From there, a cumbersome four-step sequence was employed to alkylate the product intramolecularly to construct the B ring. This intermediate, not shown, was then oxidized with PCC to furnish diketone 71, which was suitable for the Aldol addition. For this key transformation, t-BuOK was utilized, furnishing 70 at a 68% yield, and thus stereoselectively constructing the tetracyclic core skeleton of these alkaloids. From there, the resulting hydroxy group was removed via Burgess dehydration, whose product was then employed to construct 1 and 2 in ten steps. The endgame synthesis of 3 was interrupted with Mukai's documented protocol, thereby leading to the completion of the formal synthesis from 74 in 12 steps. Accordingly, Yang and coworkers also synthesized two analogs of (+)-paniculatine, namely 3-hydroxy-13-dehydropaniculatine and 13-epipaniculatine. This report was the first example of constructing the C ring last, which avoided the painful task of stitching the D ring together at a late stage, a sequence many of the previous reports had undertaken. The synthesis commenced with the construction of 72 through the alkylation of 74 onto 73 under NaH conditions, followed by the oxidative elimination of the thiol group through the formation of a sulfoxide with m-CPBA (Scheme 19). With 72 in hand, a series of 11 steps were used to install the B ring and set the stage for the intramolecular Aldol addition. First, an allyl chain was installed via conjugate addition of allyl-TMS onto enone 72, followed by the dihydroxylation of the allyl double bond utilizing osmium tetroxide. From there, a cumbersome four-step sequence was employed to alkylate the product intramolecularly to construct the B ring. This intermediate, not shown, was then oxidized with PCC to furnish diketone 71, which was suitable for the Aldol addition. For this key transformation, t-BuOK was utilized, furnishing 70 at a 68% yield, and thus stereoselectively constructing the tetracyclic core skeleton of these alkaloids. From there, the resulting hydroxy group was removed via Burgess dehydration, whose product was then employed to construct 1 and 2 in ten steps. The endgame synthesis of 3 was interrupted with Mukai's documented protocol, thereby leading to the completion of the formal synthesis from 74 in 12 steps. Accordingly, Yang and coworkers also synthesized two analogs of (+)-paniculatine, namely 3-hydroxy-13-dehydropaniculatine and 13-epi-paniculatine. This report was the first example of constructing the C ring last, which avoided the painful task of stitching the D ring together at a late stage, a sequence many of the previous reports had undertaken. the resulting hydroxy group was removed via Burgess dehydration, whose product was then employed to construct 1 and 2 in ten steps. The endgame synthesis of 3 was interrupted with Mukai's documented protocol, thereby leading to the completion of the formal synthesis from 74 in 12 steps. Accordingly, Yang and coworkers also synthesized two analogs of (+)-paniculatine, namely 3-hydroxy-13-dehydropaniculatine and 13-epipaniculatine. This report was the first example of constructing the C ring last, which avoided the painful task of stitching the D ring together at a late stage, a sequence many of the previous reports had undertaken. The synthesis leading to their first milestone 78 began with the installation of iodoalkylester 80 through a copper-catalyzed 1,4-addition of a zinc homoenolate in a complete stereochemical control at an 85% yield (Scheme 21) [93,94]. To construct the B and D rings simultaneously and stereoselectively, tandem base-promoted intramolecular cyclization and intermolecular alkylation were applied. The addition of t-BuOK followed by a onepot addition of DBU and allyl bromide 77 afforded bicycle 81 at an 86% yield. The 5-6fused diketone ring system forces the active methylene proton into a pseudo-axial conformation, resulting in a top-side attack onto bromide 77, which results in the Rconfiguration of the piperidine moiety. With an intramolecular Heck reaction in mind to construct the C ring, a series of three steps was employed to transform diketone 81 into triflate 76. This was realized through a chemoselective ketalization, conversion of the remaining ketone to its enol triflate, and then the removal of the dioxolane group to furnish 76 at a 73% yield over the three steps. With the stage set, the key Pd-catalyzed intramolecular olefin insertion was performed, exposing 78 to Pd(OAc)2, PPh3, and Et3N, which afforded dienone 82 at an 82% yield. The synthesis leading to their first milestone 78 began with the installation of iodoalkylester 80 through a copper-catalyzed 1,4-addition of a zinc homoenolate in a complete stereochemical control at an 85% yield (Scheme 21) [93,94]. To construct the B and D rings simultaneously and stereoselectively, tandem base-promoted intramolecular cyclization and intermolecular alkylation were applied. The addition of t-BuOK followed by a one-pot addition of DBU and allyl bromide 77 afforded bicycle 81 at an 86% yield. The 5-6-fused diketone ring system forces the active methylene proton into a pseudo-axial conformation, resulting in a top-side attack onto bromide 77, which results in the R-configuration of the piperidine moiety. With an intramolecular Heck reaction in mind to construct the C ring, a series of three steps was employed to transform diketone 81 into triflate 76. This was realized through a chemoselective ketalization, conversion of the remaining ketone to its enol triflate, and then the removal of the dioxolane group to furnish 76 at a 73% yield over the three steps. With the stage set, the key Pd-catalyzed intramolecular olefin insertion was performed, exposing 78 to Pd(OAc) 2 , PPh 3 , and Et 3 N, which afforded dienone 82 at an 82% yield. and intermolecular alkylation were applied. The addition of t-BuOK followed by a onepot addition of DBU and allyl bromide 77 afforded bicycle 81 at an 86% yield. The 5-6fused diketone ring system forces the active methylene proton into a pseudo-axial conformation, resulting in a top-side attack onto bromide 77, which results in the Rconfiguration of the piperidine moiety. With an intramolecular Heck reaction in mind to construct the C ring, a series of three steps was employed to transform diketone 81 into triflate 76. This was realized through a chemoselective ketalization, conversion of the remaining ketone to its enol triflate, and then the removal of the dioxolane group to furnish 76 at a 73% yield over the three steps. With the stage set, the key Pd-catalyzed intramolecular olefin insertion was performed, exposing 78 to Pd(OAc)2, PPh3, and Et3N, which afforded dienone 82 at an 82% yield. With the tetracyclic skeleton constructed, the last challenge of the chemoselective oxidation of the diene was explored. Through the extensive screening of conditions, it was found that an enediketone intermediate (not shown) could be obtained through the treatment of 82 with PdCl 2 /CuCl/O 2 [95]. This introduced a ketone at C5, while the unsaturation from the piperidine moiety could be removed through hydrogenation with H 2 and Pd/C. This afforded diketocarbamate 75 at an 86% yield. It was also proven that this three-step sequence could also be performed in one pot, thereby furnishing the desired product with comparable yields to the stepwise approach.
With the common intermediate 75 in hand, the endgame synthesis of 1-3 occurred via a straightforward approach. The selective TBS protection of one of the two ketones, followed by L-Selectride reduction and then deprotection, afforded 1. For 2 and 3, L-Selectride was employed first to regioselectively reduce one of the two ketones, after which the protection of the remaining ketone and reduction of the N-methylester to its corresponding methyl took place. Lastly, unique to 2 and 3 is the unsaturation present in the western 6-membered ring. This was realized through the addition of N-tert-butyl phenylsulfinimidoyl chloride, which dehydrogenated the ketone to its enone. This afforded 2, which could then be subjected to Dess-Martin oxidation to oxidize the secondary alcohol and thus furnish (+)-magellaninone.

Qiu's 2019 Synthesis of (+)-Paniculatine
More recently, Qiu and coworkers reported an asymmetric synthesis of (+)-paniculatine in ten steps from two simple building blocks [96], which, to the best of our knowledge, is the most concise synthesis to date (Scheme 22). They envisaged that 3 could be obtained from the regio-and diastereoselective reduction of tetracyclic triketone 83. The key transformation in their synthesis was an intramolecular Michael addition in 84 to forge one of the 5-membered diquinane rings in 83. Bicycle 84 could be obtained from an intramolecular alkylation through an iodohydrin derived from 85. Lastly, 85 could be stitched together through 86, 87, and allyl-TMS. paniculatine in ten steps from two simple building blocks [96], which, to the best of our knowledge, is the most concise synthesis to date (Scheme 22). They envisaged that 3 could be obtained from the regio-and diastereoselective reduction of tetracyclic triketone 83.
The key transformation in their synthesis was an intramolecular Michael addition in 84 to forge one of the 5-membered diquinane rings in 83. Bicycle 84 could be obtained from an intramolecular alkylation through an iodohydrin derived from 85. Lastly, 85 could be stitched together through 86, 87, and allyl-TMS. First, 86 and 87 were subjected to standard alkylation conditions, with the subsequent oxidation of the thioether and elimination of the sulfoxide group, to afford an enone intermediate (not shown). Through Hosomi-Sakurai allylation with allyl-TMS, the side chain was installed, granting 85 at a 75% yield over the three steps (Scheme 23). The diastereoselectivity of the allylation was controlled by the innate stereochemistry of 86, which is a derivative of enantiopure (R)-pulegone. Then, the terminal olefin of 85 was converted to an iodohydrin through NIS [97], followed by intramolecular alkylation to First, 86 and 87 were subjected to standard alkylation conditions, with the subsequent oxidation of the thioether and elimination of the sulfoxide group, to afford an enone intermediate (not shown). Through Hosomi-Sakurai allylation with allyl-TMS, the side chain was installed, granting 85 at a 75% yield over the three steps (Scheme 23). The diastereoselectivity of the allylation was controlled by the innate stereochemistry of 86, which is a derivative of enantiopure (R)-pulegone. Then, the terminal olefin of 85 was converted to an iodohydrin through NIS [97], followed by intramolecular alkylation to form the five-membered ring. The Dess-Martin oxidation of the secondary alcohol then furnished bicycle 84 at an 84% yield over four steps. While at first the key Michael addition seemed straightforward, this was not the case. This was likely due to the use of an amide as an electron-withdrawing group, which loosely deactivates the α,ß-unsaturated system required for the reaction. Standard bases, such as K 2 CO 3 , DBU, LDA, or NaH, proved ineffective for this transformation. Through significant optimization, they found that t-BuOK in dilute toluene under reflux conditions afforded the desired cyclized product 83 at a moderate yield. With the tetracyclic skeleton of paniculatine constructed, two final steps were employed from 83 to complete the synthesis of 3. First, the protection of the eastern ketone to form TBS enol-ether; then, the L-Selectride reduction of the remaining ketone to the corresponding secondary alcohol; and finally deprotection, which afforded (+)-paniculatine at a 70% yield over the three transformations. form the five-membered ring. The Dess-Martin oxidation of the secondary alcohol then furnished bicycle 84 at an 84% yield over four steps. While at first the key Michael addition seemed straightforward, this was not the case. This was likely due to the use of an amide as an electron-withdrawing group, which loosely deactivates the α,ß-unsaturated system required for the reaction. Standard bases, such as K2CO3, DBU, LDA, or NaH, proved ineffective for this transformation. Through significant optimization, they found that t-BuOK in dilute toluene under reflux conditions afforded the desired cyclized product 83 at a moderate yield. With the tetracyclic skeleton of paniculatine constructed, two final steps were employed from 83 to complete the synthesis of 3. First, the protection of the eastern ketone to form TBS enol-ether; then, the L-Selectride reduction of the remaining ketone to the corresponding secondary alcohol; and finally deprotection, which afforded (+)-paniculatine at a 70% yield over the three transformations.

Yao's 2022 Synthesis of 1-3
To the best of our knowledge, the most recent synthesis was reported in 2022 by Yao and coworkers [98], which consisted of the collective synthesis of 1-3 (Scheme 24). They envisioned that the three natural products could be derived from the common intermediate 88. The piperidine ring of 88 could be derived from the reductive amination of aldehyde 89, which itself could be obtained from an intramolecular Michael addition of 90, a common procedure for 1,5-dicarbonyl systems. The enone moiety of 90 could come

Yao's 2022 Synthesis of 1-3
To the best of our knowledge, the most recent synthesis was reported in 2022 by Yao and coworkers [98], which consisted of the collective synthesis of 1-3 (Scheme 24). They envisioned that the three natural products could be derived from the common intermediate 88.
The piperidine ring of 88 could be derived from the reductive amination of aldehyde 89, which itself could be obtained from an intramolecular Michael addition of 90, a common procedure for 1,5-dicarbonyl systems. The enone moiety of 90 could come from the dehydration of tertiary alcohol 91, for which the latter could come from an intramolecular reductive C-C bond formation between the two carbonyls in 92 [99][100][101]. Methyl ester 92 can result from a functionally decorated intermediate 93, which, in turn, can be derived from a four-step sequence of the Morita-Baylis-Hillman reaction, alcohol oxidation, and two Michael additions. It is worth noting that Yao and coworkers initially described a synthesis wherein R is a dioxolane acetal instead of a N-Boc group. In their initial synthesis development, they successfully obtained intermediate 89; however, they decided to revisit their lengthy scheme to 1) shorten the synthesis and 2) introduce the D-ring amine at an early stage. Here, we describe the second edition of their synthesis. implemented: the first to install the enolate derived from methyl acetate and the second with acrolein. This yielded an alkylester-diketone intermediate that was cyclized to form the southern tetrahydropyran ring in 93. This five-step sequence proved to be a robust procedure that was applied for the large-scale preparation of enantiopure intermediate 93.
With a sufficient quantity of 93 in hand, the intramolecular reductive C-C bond was formed. In their 2012 and 2021 reports for the total synthesis of the fawcettimine-type alkaloids [99,100], Yao and coworkers had discovered that lithium-arenides were capable of forming this type of bond through single-electron reduction. This was applied in the currently discussed route with the use of Li-naphthalide, leading to the production of the resulting tertiary alcohol with high stereoselectivity, which was likely due to the Scheme 24. Yao's retrosynthetic analysis. Boc = t-butoxycarbonyl.
The first synthetic goal was the five-step synthesis of chiral intermediate 93 containing a key quaternary carbon center (Scheme 25). First, a Morita-Baylis-Hillman reaction between 94 and the alkyl aldehyde gave a ß-hydroxy enone intermediate as an inseparable mixture of diastereomers. The secondary alcohol was then oxidized under Dess-Martin conditions to deliver the 1,3-diketone at a 90% yield. Next, the two Michael additions were implemented: the first to install the enolate derived from methyl acetate and the second with acrolein. This yielded an alkylester-diketone intermediate that was cyclized to form the southern tetrahydropyran ring in 93. This five-step sequence proved to be a robust procedure that was applied for the large-scale preparation of enantiopure intermediate 93.
With a sufficient quantity of 93 in hand, the intramolecular reductive C-C bond was formed. In their 2012 and 2021 reports for the total synthesis of the fawcettimine-type alkaloids [99,100], Yao and coworkers had discovered that lithium-arenides were capable of forming this type of bond through single-electron reduction. This was applied in the currently discussed route with the use of Li-naphthalide, leading to the production of the resulting tertiary alcohol with high stereoselectivity, which was likely due to the coordinating effects between the lithium ion and the neighboring methoxyl group, which forces the alcohol onto the "top" face. Burgess dehydration then led to the formation of the α,ß-unsaturated enone as a Z-isomer, which could be readily converted to an E-isomer 90 through irradiation at 390 nm.
The construction of the C-ring was carried out through the authors key intramolecular cyclization of aldehyde 90. By analyzing the preceding literature [102][103][104][105][106][107], they had discovered that the use of pyrrolidine and benzoic acid could forge this key C-C bond in order to close the C-ring. Thus, through extensive condition screening, they found that catalytic amounts of pyrrolidine (10 mol%) and benzoic acid (12 mol%) in DCE at reflux or near-reflux conditions produced 89 at moderate to good yield. Scheme 24. Yao's retrosynthetic analysis. Boc = t-butoxycarbonyl.
The first synthetic goal was the five-step synthesis of chiral intermediate 93 containing a key quaternary carbon center (Scheme 25). First, a Morita-Baylis-Hillman reaction between 94 and the alkyl aldehyde gave a ß -hydroxy enone intermediate as an inseparable mixture of diastereomers. The secondary alcohol was then oxidized under Dess-Martin conditions to deliver the 1,3-diketone at a 90% yield. Next, the two Michael additions were Scheme 25. Yao's synthesis. Boc = t-butoxycarbonyl. Pyrr = pyrrolidine. DCE = 1,2-dichloroethane.
implemented: the first to install the enolate derived from methyl acetate and the second with acrolein. This yielded an alkylester-diketone intermediate that was cyclized to form the southern tetrahydropyran ring in 93. This five-step sequence proved to be a robust procedure that was applied for the large-scale preparation of enantiopure intermediate 93.
With a sufficient quantity of 93 in hand, the intramolecular reductive C-C bond was formed. In their 2012 and 2021 reports for the total synthesis of the fawcettimine-type alkaloids [99,100], Yao and coworkers had discovered that lithium-arenides were capable of forming this type of bond through single-electron reduction. This was applied in the currently discussed route with the use of Li-naphthalide, leading to the production of the resulting tertiary alcohol with high stereoselectivity, which was likely due to the coordinating effects between the lithium ion and the neighboring methoxyl group, which forces the alcohol onto the "top" face. Burgess dehydration then led to the formation of the α,ß-unsaturated enone as a Z-isomer, which could be readily converted to an E-isomer 90 through irradiation at 390 nm.
The construction of the C-ring was carried out through the authors key intramolecular cyclization of aldehyde 90. By analyzing the preceding literature [102][103][104][105][106][107], they had discovered that the use of pyrrolidine and benzoic acid could forge this key C-C bond in order to close the C-ring. Thus, through extensive condition screening, they found that catalytic amounts of pyrrolidine (10 mol%) and benzoic acid (12 mol%) in DCE at reflux or near-reflux conditions produced 89 at moderate to good yield. Lastly, the endgame synthesis of 1-3 was performed through a series of similar steps to the preceding syntheses: the selective reduction of a ketone, the reduction of the remaining ketone, and finally deprotection to furnish the three natural products in an enantioselective fashion.

Other Notable Syntheses
In this last section, we would like to highlight some of the formal syntheses as well as unique strategies utilized to construct these complex natural alkaloids. This is by no means a comprehensive list; a short scheme of the key transformation will be shown and described.
The first strategy to highlight is that reported by Meyers and coworkers in 1995 (Scheme 26) [108]. Their plan hinged on an adaptation of a known regioselective intermolecular 1,4-addition of enolates to activated acyloxypyridinium salts [109][110][111][112][113]. Thus, pyridine 95 was treated with phenyl chloroformate to activate the pyridine ring for nucleophilic attack; meanwhile, the addition of titanium chloride provided the enolate for said attack. The result of this reaction was the 1,4-dihydropyridine product 96 at a 58% isolated yield along with 16% regioisomers. While constituting an incomplete synthesis, this strategy provides an efficient method for constructing all six stereogenic centers contained in magellanine.

EER REVIEW 18 of 25
Lastly, the endgame synthesis of 1-3 was performed through a series of similar steps to the preceding syntheses: the selective reduction of a ketone, the reduction of the remaining ketone, and finally deprotection to furnish the three natural products in an enantioselective fashion.

Other Notable Syntheses
In this last section, we would like to highlight some of the formal syntheses as well as unique strategies utilized to construct these complex natural alkaloids. This is by no means a comprehensive list; a short scheme of the key transformation will be shown and described.
The first strategy to highlight is that reported by Meyers and coworkers in 1995 (Scheme 26) [108]. Their plan hinged on an adaptation of a known regioselective intermolecular 1,4-addition of enolates to activated acyloxypyridinium salts [109][110][111][112][113]. Thus, pyridine 95 was treated with phenyl chloroformate to activate the pyridine ring for nucleophilic attack; meanwhile, the addition of titanium chloride provided the enolate for said attack. The result of this reaction was the 1,4-dihydropyridine product 96 at a 58% isolated yield along with 16% regioisomers. While constituting an incomplete synthesis, this strategy provides an efficient method for constructing all six stereogenic centers contained in magellanine. Some time later, Sarpong and coworkers reported a similar pyridine-derived approach for the construction of the C ring (Scheme 27) [114]. In this strategy, they followed conditions established by Echavarren for the direct regioselective arylation of pyridines with palladium catalysis [115,116]. With the use of Pd(OAc)2 (10 mol%) and DavePhos (30 mol%), vinyl triflate 97 was employed to close the C-ring of 98 at a 66% yield. Similar to Meyers, to the best of our knowledge, Sarpong and coworkers have not completed the total synthesis of 1-3; however, another unique approach was disclosed in 2017 [13]. Some time later, Sarpong and coworkers reported a similar pyridine-derived approach for the construction of the C ring (Scheme 27) [114]. In this strategy, they followed conditions established by Echavarren for the direct regioselective arylation of pyridines with palladium catalysis [115,116]. With the use of Pd(OAc) 2 (10 mol%) and DavePhos (30 mol%), vinyl triflate 97 was employed to close the C-ring of 98 at a 66% yield. Similar to Meyers, to the best of our knowledge, Sarpong and coworkers have not completed the total synthesis of 1-3; however, another unique approach was disclosed in 2017 [13].
conditions established by Echavarren for the direct regioselective arylation of pyridines with palladium catalysis [115,116]. With the use of Pd(OAc)2 (10 mol%) and DavePhos (30 mol%), vinyl triflate 97 was employed to close the C-ring of 98 at a 66% yield. Similar to Meyers, to the best of our knowledge, Sarpong and coworkers have not completed the total synthesis of 1-3; however, another unique approach was disclosed in 2017 [13]. Lastly, a more recent strategy was reported by Barriault and coworkers in 2017 (Scheme 28) [117]. Their total synthesis of magellanine was conducted as a result of their lab's efforts toward the development of a gold(I)-catalyzed dehydro Diels-Alder reaction [118]. In their work, they first identified ligand L1 as optimal for use in conjunction with gold(I) to initiate a stereoselective formal [4+2] between an enyne and an olefin. Thus, enyne 99 was subjected to the shown conditions to afford 100 at a 91% yield. This transformation efficiently constructed the CD-ring in a single step and at an excellent yield Lastly, a more recent strategy was reported by Barriault and coworkers in 2017 (Scheme 28) [117]. Their total synthesis of magellanine was conducted as a result of their lab's efforts toward the development of a gold(I)-catalyzed dehydro Diels-Alder reaction [118]. In their work, they first identified ligand L1 as optimal for use in conjunction with gold(I) to initiate a stereoselective formal [4+2] between an enyne and an olefin. Thus, enyne 99 was subjected to the shown conditions to afford 100 at a 91% yield. This transformation efficiently constructed the CD-ring in a single step and at an excellent yield and was shown to be sufficiently robust so as to be performed on a gram scale. From there, Barriault and coworkers applied a 7-step synthesis to achieve magellaninone as a mixture of enantiomers over 11 longest linear steps. and was shown to be sufficiently robust so as to be performed on a gram scale. From there, Barriault and coworkers applied a 7-step synthesis to achieve magellaninone as a mixture of enantiomers over 11 longest linear steps.

Conclusions
This review highlights the development of synthetic strategies and their application in the total synthesis of magellanine, magellaninone, and paniculatine, three natural products from the Lycopodium family. Due to the unique 6-5-5-6-fused ring system of these molecules, each author devised a unique and robust method for their careful construction. Of particular note is the construction of the C ring. While groups such as Yang, Qiu, and Yan employed elementary transformations (albeit powerful and robust), the other authors each devised their own unique strategies for the synthesis of this pivotal piece of the puzzle. Another point that we found interesting was that many groups decided to start with a derivative of the A-ring, most often through a pulegone-analog route. From there, each group introduced each of the other three rings in very efficient manners through reliable transformations. We hope that the chemistry introduced in this review may promote future progress in the pursuit of the total synthesis of Lycopodium alkaloids and related compounds.

Conclusions
This review highlights the development of synthetic strategies and their application in the total synthesis of magellanine, magellaninone, and paniculatine, three natural products from the Lycopodium family. Due to the unique 6-5-5-6-fused ring system of these molecules, each author devised a unique and robust method for their careful construction. Of particular note is the construction of the C ring. While groups such as Yang, Qiu, and Yan employed elementary transformations (albeit powerful and robust), the other authors each devised their own unique strategies for the synthesis of this pivotal piece of the puzzle. Another point that we found interesting was that many groups decided to start with a derivative of the A-ring, most often through a pulegone-analog route. From there, each group introduced each of the other three rings in very efficient manners through reliable transformations. We hope that the chemistry introduced in this review may promote future progress in the pursuit of the total synthesis of Lycopodium alkaloids and related compounds.