Synthesis of bis(indolyl)alkanes by a site-selective gold-catalyzed addition of indoles to butynol derivatives

A new site-selective hydroarylation reaction of alkynes catalyzed by gold complexes and directed by an internal hydroxyl group has been developed. Thus, the treatment of 3-butyn-1-ol derivatives with indoles and a catalytic amount of an in situ formed cationic gold complex leads to the formation of bis(indolyl)alkane derivatives. Particularly interesting is the reaction with terminal alkynes as the double addition of the indol occurs at the terminal carbon of the triple bond. The reaction conditions are very mild and the final bis(indolyl)alkanes are obtained in high yields. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.