The 8H-thieno[2,3-b]pyrrolizinones, some of which exert very potent
cytotoxic activity against tumor cell lines in vitro, are a promising novel series of anticancer
agents. These compounds belong to the tripentone family and are based on 9Hpyrrolo[
1,2-a]indol-9-one derivatives and their heterocyclic isosteres. This paper
inventories the different synthetic strategies for tripentones and reviews their biological
effects and therapeutic potential.
Keywords: Tripentone, pyrrolizinone, pyrroloindolone, thiophene, cancer,
pyrrole , heterocycles, clauson-kaas, acylation, ring closure.
