The optimization of the synthesis of 5-aryl-2-pyrrolidinones through decarbonylation of pyroglutamic acid in Eaton's reagent, in presence of aromatic derivatives, is described. The utilization of these reaction conditions in the arylation of enaminoester vinylogues (17, 24) of pyroglutamic acid was also realized, confirming that these derivatives are subject to decarbonylationî in the same way as the parent acid. Depending on the nature of the ...