In water synthesis of bis(indolyl)methanes: a review

Bis(indolyl) methane (BIM) derivatives have shown numerous biological properties which has influenced the scientific fraternity to explore the length and breadth of their synthesis. Mostly, the procedure involves a catalytic electrophilic substitution reaction of indoles with various aldehydes and ketones. However, many variations have been applied from time to time to promote this reaction under green conditions. The use of water as a solvent in organic synthesis, has gained much attention due to economic and eco-friendly reasons. It has also been observed that the reactions under aqueous conditions have shown high reactivities and chemo-selectivity, which are not found in organic media. In water synthesis of BIMs has gained considerable recent importance and several methods have been developed. Thus, in this review we have summarized different synthetic protocols used to prepare BIMs under aqueous conditions in the last fifteen years.

Automated summary

Bis(indolyl) methane (BIM) derivatives exhibit various biological properties, leading to extensive exploration in their synthesis. The use of water as a solvent in organic synthesis has gained attention for economic and eco-friendly reasons, showing high reactivities and chemo-selectivity under aqueous conditions.