Dearomative (3 + 2) Cycloadditions of Unprotected Indoles

Org Lett. 2022 Jun 17;24(23):4119-4123. doi: 10.1021/acs.orglett.2c01214. Epub 2022 Jun 8.

Abstract

The (3 + 2) cycloaddition of various indoles with a dithioallyl cation affords dearomatized cyclopentannulated adducts, with complete control of regioselectivity and excellent chemo- and diastereoselectivity. The success of the reaction critically relies on the use of an excess of very strong Brønsted acid, which paradoxically prevents carbocationic side reactions. The reaction tolerates sensitive functionalities such as basic amines or free hydroxyls, and we demonstrate its use in late stage derivatization of highly functionalized, unprotected indoles.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acids
  • Amines*
  • Cations
  • Cycloaddition Reaction
  • Indoles*
  • Stereoisomerism

Substances

  • Acids
  • Amines
  • Cations
  • Indoles