Synthesis of isocorrole and the higher homologues

Bis(azafulvene) derivative of gem-dimethyldipyrrylmethane reacted with 2,2′-bipyrrole under neutral conditions without catalyst to give a mixture of expanded isocorroles in ca. 50% total yields. GPC separation gave eleven porphyrinoids containing 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, and 44 units of pyrrole.