Redox-neutral α-functionalization of pyrrolidines: facile access to α-aryl-substituted pyrrolidines

Using a quinone monoacetal as the oxidant and DABCO as the base, we report the one-step synthesis of α-aryl-substituted pyrrolidines from pyrrolidine. The reaction of pyrrolidine and quinone monoacetal in 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol afforded octahydro-dipyrroloquinoline in high yield.