TBHP/Et3N‑Promoted Chemoselective Formylation and Peroxidation of Pyrrolo[2,1‑a]isoquinolines

An efficient formylation of pyrrolo­[2,1-a]­isoquinoline derivatives has been reached by the use of TBHP (tBuOOH) and Et3N as the mediator. In this strategy, CHO and CDO can be readily incorporated into heteroarenes by the utilization of CHCl3 and CDCl3 as the carbonyl sources. Interestingly, a solvent-controlled chemoselectivity was observed. The use of PhCl as a solvent resulted in dearomatization and peroxidation of pyrrolo­[2,1-a]­isoquinolines, delivering functionalized peroxides in 53–64% yields.