Total synthesis and morphogenesis-inducing activity of (±)-thallusin and its analogues

Total synthesis of (±)-thallusin was achieved using Hg(OTf)2·PhNMe2-induced olefin cyclization, and Suzuki coupling with a pyridylboronic acid derivative. Hg(OTf)2 also acted as a catalyst to isomerize the double bond into the more thermodynamically stable isomer when treated in toluene. Synthetic (±)-thallusin as well as an analogue showed morphogenesis-inducing activity.