Synthesis of diterpenoid indole derivatives via tethered chromium alkynylaminocarbenes

Thermolysis of podocarpane-tethered chromiumalkynylaminocarbenes gives indole derivatives in moderate yields. (Arylalkynyl)aminocarbenes could not be isolated. Ester derivatives were formed due to trapping of the intermediate ketene in situ with butan-1-ol. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.