Catalyst-Switchable Divergent Synthesis of Bis(indolyl)alkanes and 3-Alkylated Indoles from Styrene Oxides

J Org Chem. 2022 Aug 5;87(15):10229-10240. doi: 10.1021/acs.joc.2c01204. Epub 2022 Jul 20.

Abstract

A novel and effective Brønsted acid-catalyzed chemoselective synthesis of bis(indolyl)alkanes and 3-alkyl indoles is reported. The selectivity of two significant indole derivatives is attained by allowing the same substrates to go through divergent reaction routes catalyzed by different catalysts. Furthermore, this mild approach is applicable to a wide range of substrates and has high efficacy in large-scale reactions. A plausible mechanism is provided based on the control experiments and spectroscopic studies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alkanes* / chemistry
  • Catalysis
  • Indoles* / chemistry
  • Oxides
  • Styrenes

Substances

  • Alkanes
  • Indoles
  • Oxides
  • Styrenes