Unexpected ring contraction and oxidation rearrangement reactions of securinine

The bromination and oxidation of securinine were studied. An interesting and surprising rearrangement was observed during the reaction of securinine with tribromo-isocyanuric acid or 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dimethylhydantoin in methanol, yielding a stereoselective ring contraction norsecurinine derivative. Meanwhile two oxidation rearrangement products were also reported. Some preliminary discussions on the reactivity of securinine were conducted from these rearrangements; it is believed to be induced by alkaline nitrogen atom of the molecule.