Application of 2-ethylpyrrole for a direct synthesis of 3-substituted inverted porphyrins

3-Ethyl-5,10,15,20-tetraphenyl-2-aza-21-carbaporphyrin is the major macrocyclic product in the condensation of 2-ethylpyrrole, pyrrole, and benzaldehyde. Oxidation of the ethyl substituent leads to 3-(1′-hydroxyethyl)- and 3-acetyl-substituted inverted porphyrins.