Recent Advances in the Electrochemical Synthesis and Functionalization of Indole Derivatives

The chemists' pursuit of the ideal synthesis and functionalization of indole derivatives has lasted over 150 years as their scaffolds have been widely found in natural products, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals and organic materials. In this regard, the recent resurgence of adopting green and sustainable electrochemistry in organic synthesis suggests that electrosynthesis is a promising strategy. Indeed, many new intriguing applications of synthesis and functionalization of indole derivatives by direct and redox-mediated electrochemical means have been disclosed. In this review, we highlight the fundamental aspects, reaction scopes, synthetic applications and reaction mechanisms of the electrochemical synthesis and functionalization of indole derivatives.