Transition metal complexes in organic synthesis, part 70.: Synthesis of biologically active carbazole alkaloids using organometallic chemistry

The isolation and biological activity of carbazole alkaloids is summarized. Recent developments of novel methodologies for the synthesis of carbazole alkaloids are described. The focus is on syntheses using the oxidative coupling of arylamines with either arenes, cyclohexadienes, or cyclohexene mediated or catalyzed by palladium, iron, or molybdenum. The implementation of these annulations in total syntheses provides highly convergent routes to biologically active carbazole alkaloids. Advantages, scope, and limitations of the different synthetic methods are discussed.