RESEARCH IN THE LABORATORY OF DR. HOLT

First, a new method to synthesize pyrroles and indoles using metals to catalyze the rearrangement of 2H-azirines is being investigated.  2H-Azirines  have a number of synthetic utilities.  The synthesis of vinyl- and arylazirines and their nickel promoted rearrangement to pyrroles and indoles is being explored.

Secondly, synthetic procedures towards the synthesis of quinolines and isoquinolines is being examined.  Nickel promoted rearrangement of the 4-vinylpyridine derivative provides an isoquinoline, and rearrangment of 2-vinylpyridine derived cyclobutene generates either a quinoline or an azabicyclodecane.  The quinoline is the expected product.