Catalytic C(sp2)–H functionalization of vinyl cations is an efficient protocol for the construction of new aromatic systems. However, most current methods suffer from noble metal catalysis and low atom economy. Herein, we report a copper-catalyzed C(sp2)–H functionalization of arenes with vinyl cations by a diyne cyclization strategy, leading to the concise synthesis of polycyclic pyrroles. This C(sp2)–H functionalization tolerates both electron-rich and -deficient arenes. Moreover, the related catalytic atroposelective C(sp2)–H functionalization can be realized by chiral copper catalysis.
Wang et al. (Sun,) studied this question.