cyclization pathway. Pictet-Spengler cyclization of 2 and 3 proceeded with Felkin-Anh-type asymmetric induction, favouring the 1R isomer throughout the pH range 5.0-9.0. These results, which highlight the first example of carbohydrate-derived 7,8-dihydroxytetrahydroisoquinoline, provide new insights into the factors governing competition between Maillard and Pictet-Spenglercondensation pathways.