Simple Efficient Synthesis of Pyranoquinoline Alkaloids: Flindersine,Khaplofoline,Haplamine and their Analogues

An efficient two step synthesis of pyranoquinoline alkaloids is described. Direct treatment of isoprene with 4-hydroxyquinolin-2(1H)-one in the presence of polyphosphoric acid furnished dihydroflindersine in good yield, and which on dehydrogenation led to a new synthesis of flindersine. Khaplofoline, a linear pyranoquinoline alkaloid, was obtained as a minor product. The syntheses of derivatives are also documented.