Synthesis and use of a trifluoromethylated azomethine ylide precursor.

The presence of fluorous substituents can impart a dramatic effect on the efficacy of molecules used for a range of applications in society. Here, we describe the preparation and use of a new trifluoromethylated azomethine ylide precursor, which leads to a series of fluorinated pyrrolidine, 3-pyrroline, and pyrrole building blocks.