A convenient synthesis of 3,7′-bisindole derivatives

Abstract

An efficient and convenient method to synthesize highly functionalized 3,7′-bisindole derivatives has been developed via a Michael addition and cyclic condensation reaction of heterocyclic ketene aminals (HKAs) with 2-(1H-indol-3-yl)cyclohexa-2,5-diene-1,4-dione derivatives in ethanol-based solvents at room temperature. This strategy provides an efficient, environmentally friendly approach for easy access to various novel 3,7′-bisindole derivatives in moderate to good yields.