A novel and unexpected one pot synthesis of pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinolines

A new low temperature route to pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinolines bearing ester groups in the 5-position is reported. The reaction mechanism was found to depend on the reaction temperature. At low temperatures it is proposed the reaction proceeds though an addition-intramolecular SNAr-elimination pathway. This method should find wider use as it avoids high boiling point solvents and affords compatibility with thermosensitive substrates.