Pd-porphyrin complex-catalyzed allylation of indole with allylic alcohols through C3-C2 coupling

Appropriate and efficient way for the preparation of 3-allyl-2,3-dihydro-2,3'-bisindoles has been developed via homocoupling of N-H indole. Pd-porphyrin-catalyzed allylation of indoles with allylic alcohols in the presence of PBr3 and a base is developed. The reaction involves dimerization at the C3 and C2 positions of the indoles, giving 2-allylated 3-(indolin-2-yl)-1H-indoles in moderate to good yields. 3-(Indolin-2-yl)-1H-indole derivatives serve as intermediates for the synthesis of pharmaceutically active molecules. (C) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

A novel method has been developed for the preparation of 3-allyl-2,3-dihydro-2,3'-bisindoles via homocoupling of N-H indole. The method offers an efficient route to synthesize pharmaceutically active compounds using 3-(indolin-2-yl)-1H-indole derivatives as intermediates.