K2CO3 promoted direct sulfenylation of indoles: a facile approach towards 3-sulfenylindoles

An efficient and convenient method was developed for the preparation of 3-sulfenylindoles via a K2CO3 promoted direct sulfenylation of indoles with disulfides. The method is applicable to a wide range of indoles containing different functional groups furnishing good to excellent yields. This synthetic strategy features environmental friendliness, easy operation, and mild reaction conditions.