Efficient functionalization of quinolizinium cations with organotrifluoroborates in water

An efficient functionalization of the quinolizinium system is reported. The reaction of the four isomeric bromoquinolizinium salts with different organotrifluoroborates afforded alkyl-, vinyl-, aryl-, and heteroaryl quinolizinium derivatives in moderate or good yields. Reactions are carried out in water using a counterion exchange for the isolation of the cationic-coupled compounds.