Total synthesis of (±)-γ-lycorane via the electrocyclic ring closure of a divinylpyrroline

A concise total synthesis of (±)-γ-lycorane is described. The key step in the synthesis is the 6π-electrocyclic ring closure of a divinylpyrroline to give a tetrahydroindole, which is subsequently hydrogenated to give the all-cis indolizidine core.