2,4-Disubstituted pyrroles are a common substructure in biologically active compounds.1 Therefore, their synthesis, especially through the use of inexpensive materials, is essential. Copper (I) salts have been reported to catalyze the cyclization of aryloxy-enynes with amines to yield substituted pyrroles.2 We hypothesized that this strategy could be applied to the cyclization of β-alkynyl enamines, the major product of an iron-catalyzed carboamination process recently discovered in our lab.3 5 equivalents of CuCl was found to cyclize β-alkynyl enamines to pyrroles in good yields. Carboamination and cyclization can be performed in a two-step, one-pot protocol, avoiding difficult initial separation of the enamine from iron-containing side products.

Dr. Neely has been an amazing teacher and mentor. Through having the opportunity to do research in her lab I have not only improved my synthesis skills but realized the Organometallic Chemistry and Catalysis are passions of mine. Where I am as a scientist is credited to her kindness and knowledge. I cannot thank her enough for all she has done and can only hope to be half as good of a scientist that she is one day.

I don't even know how to describe Corey and the extent that he has helped me that will give him justice. Corey is my graduate student who I have been lucky enough to work on this project with. He has taught me everything I know in the lab and been patient with me throughout the process. If I ever have any problem, Corey has a solution. This project would be nowhere without his hard work and intelligence.