Direct synthesis of pyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinolines by 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of stabilized isoquinolinium N-ylides with vinyl sulfonium salts

A direct and efficient synthesis of 2,3-unsubstituted 1-acylpyrrolo[2,1-a]isoquinolines is described. The 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of stabilized isoquinolinium N-ylides with vinyl sulfonium salts features simple experimental procedures, mild conditions, and moderate to good yields.