On the chemistry of Beckurt’s test for physostigmine: A novel hydride transfer

Beckurt treated physostigmine hydrochloride with dilute potassium permanganate solution and observed separation of manganese dioxide. Since at first sight there is no reaction site for this oxidation, it was interesting to clear up the route test. Acid hydrolysis O-phenylcarbamate yielded phenolic derivative three-ring indole alkaloid hydrochloride. Now are present para-position an electrodotic group a positive charged nitrogen atom. However, has octet electrons; thus, occur hydride ion must be displaced. This can happen in presence acceptor, that is, by reduction ion. chemical deportment been postulated recently completely different sequence. So, our proposal novel one. The mechanism following inorganic steps final product not advanced, provided communication.