The total synthesis of berberine and selected analogues, and their evaluation as amyloid beta aggregation inhibitors

The total synthesis of berberine and selected analogues. And their evaluation as amyloid β (Aβ) aggregation inhibitors is described. The key step in the synthesis, the assembly of the berberine framework, was accomplished using an intermolecular Heck reaction. Berberine analog 17 incorporating a tertiary amine moiety showed good anti Aβ aggregation activity, water solubility, and almost no toxicity to nerve cells.