Photooxidative tandem cyclization of enamines to polysubstituted pyrroles: a combined experimental and theoretical study†

An intermolecular dimerization of enamines to polysubstituted pyrroles was realized in moderate yields via a photocatalytic oxidative tandem cyclization method. This visible-light-triggered cyclization offers advantages such as eliminating the need for an external photocatalyst, acid, base or additives, the ready availability of starting materials, and a simple operation process. Extensive substrate scope and rapid assembly of the biologically valuable pyrrole derivatives confirmed the compatibility and practicability of this methodology. DFT calculations and experimental studies played a vital role in the successful implementation of this research. Furthermore, this study opened a new avenue to construct pyrrole scaffolds and related functional materials.