Asymmetric Synthesis of the Alkaloids mayfoline and N(1)‐acetyl‐N(1)‐deoxymayfoline

The total syntheses of the spermidine alkaloids (−)‐mayfoline ( 11 ) and (+)‐ N (1)‐acetyl‐ N (1)‐deoxymayfoline ( 12 ) are described. These macrocyclic lactams belong to the most interesting conjugates of the polyamine derivatives very commonly found in nature. The enantioselective syntheses were achieved through resolution of the methyl 3‐amino‐3‐phenylpropanoate ( 2 ) by recrystallization of its (+)‐ L ‐tartrate salt. Construction of the 13‐membered ring ensued through condensation, reductive ring expansion (internal bond cleavage), and finally a transamidation reaction involving a second ring expansion.