7-substituted 2-azabicyclo[2.2.1]heptanes as key intermediates for the synthesis of novel epibatidine analogues; synthesis of syn-and anti-isoepiboxidine.

Neighboring group participation by the 2-nitrogen in anti-7-bromo-2-benzyl-2-azabicyclo[2.2.1]heptane allows ready nucleophilic substitution at the 7-position by C, N, O, and halogen nucleophiles and opens the way to a range of novel 7-substituted 2-azabicyclo[2.2.1]heptanes. Conversion of an anti-7-ethoxycarbonyl group into a methylisoxazole ring provides anti-isoepiboxidine, a conversion that is possible even without protection of the secondary bicyclic nitrogen. Successful base-induced epimerization alpha to the carbonyl of the anti-7-ethoxycarbonyl derivative gives the syn-stereoisomer and hence syn-isoepiboxidine.