Synthesis of tetrahydro-β-carbolines from phthalic anhydrides and tryptamine

Abstract Tetrahydro- β -carbolines with strictosamide skeleton have been synthesized via intermolecular condensation, selective reduction, and intramolecular cyclization starting from phthalic anhydrides and tryptamine. The reactions are carried out under mild conditions with a wide range of substrates and functional groups.