Two-Step, One-Flask Synthesis of an N‑Confused Porphyrin Bearing Pentafluorophenyl Substituents

A two-step, one-flask reaction of pyrrole and pentafluorobenzaldehyde was investigated as a streamlined synthetic route to an N-confused porphyrin bearing pentafluorophenyl substituents previously prepared by a stepwise route. A survey of acid catalysts, acid catalyst concentration, DDQ quantity, and reaction time was performed with monitoring by HPLC. The targeted N-confused porphyrin was observed from many reaction conditions. The best condition afforded the N-confused porphyrin in an isolated yield of 10–12% (245–281 mg), providing improved access to this interesting porphyrinoid.