Copper-catalyzed tandem aerobic oxidative cyclization for the synthesis of 4-cyanoalkylpyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines from 1-(2-aminophenyl)pyrroles and cyclobutanone oxime esters

A copper-catalyzed tandem ring-opening/cyclization reaction for the synthesis of 4-cyanoalkylpyrrolo[1,2-a]quinoxalines from 1-(2-aminophenyl)pyrroles and cyclobutanone oxime esters has been developed. This reaction involves C-C bond cleavage and C-C and C-N bond constructions with good functional group tolerance. A wide range of products are obtained in moderate to good yields under mild conditions.