Abstract Recently we have evolved an efficient synthesis of the tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids by the use of a bromoester essentially like 2 derived from lactone3. In connection with our continuing studies on berbines1, 4 we now wish to report a novel total synthesis of (2, 3)(10, 11)-bis (methylenedioxy) berbine by the use of the bromoester 2. The approach (Scheme 1), as we believe, is the first report of the successful utilization of the bromoester ...