Domino [4 + 1]-annulation of α,β-unsaturated δ-amino esters with Rh(II)-carbenoids – a new approach towards multi-functionalized N-aryl pyrrolidines

Catalytic decomposition of diazomalonates and other diazoesters using Rh(II)- and Cu(II)-complexes in the presence of α,β-unsaturated δ-(N-aryl)amino esters gives rise to the formation of multi-functionalized pyrrolidines with yields of up to 82%. The reaction apparently occurs as a domino process involving the initial N-ylide formation followed by intramolecular Michael addition to the conjugated system of amino esters to afford the pyrrolidine heterocycle. The whole process can also be classified as a [4 + 1]-annulation of the δ-amino α,β-unsaturated ester with the carbenoid intermediate.