One-Pot Sequential Propargylation/Cycloisomerization: A Facile [4+2]-Benzannulation Approach to Carbazoles

A novel one-pot [4+2]-benzannulation approach to substituted carbazoles is accomplished by acid-catalyzed C3-propargylation of 2-alkenyl/aryl indoles with 1-aryl propargylic alcohols, followed by cycloisomerization. A variety of 2-alkenylated indoles and 2-aryl/heteroaryl indoles successfully participated in this tandem reaction with 1-aryl/heteroaryl propargylic alcohols to provide diversely substituted and annulated carbazoles, as well as an aza[5]helicene.