Opening of epoxides with aromatic amines promoted by indium tribromide:: a mild and efficient method for the synthesis of β-amino alcohols

A mild and efficient synthesis of beta-amino alcohols by aminolysis of epoxides promoted by indium tribromide is described. The methodology is regio- and chemoselective and works well with independence of the epoxide or the aromatic amine used. In addition, the reaction can be carried out in a wide variety of undried solvents under air. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.