An efficient synthetic route for pyrrolizinone synthesis through functionalized c-alkylpyrroles

Regioselective addition of pyrrole to methyl 3-aryl-2-cyanoacrylates was achieved, in high yields, with copper(II) triflate as the catalyst in toluene. C-Alkylated pyrroles afforded novel pyrrolizin-3-ones, in good to high yields and high diastereomeric ratio by an intramolecular cyclization reaction under mild reaction conditions.