Cyclization Strategies Using Imide Derivatives for the Synthesis of Polycyclic Nitrogen‐Containing Compounds

Abstract Cyclization strategies employing imides and their derivatives have attracted the attention of several organic chemists interested in synthesizing polycyclic alkaloids. Numerous strategies have been developed, mostly focused on i) the use of masked iminium ions, ii) addition of weak nucleophiles onto the carbonyl group of the imide being activated by a Lewis or Brønsted acid, iii) addition of strong nucleophiles onto the imide carbonyl, iv) radical‐based processes and v) miscellaneous methods. This review is not comprehensive. It aims to provide the reader with a selection of representative synthetic strategies available in the area up to date.