Abstract
By employing either borrowing hydrogen or transfer hydrogenation strategy, two straightforward
[Ru(p-cymene)Cl2]2-catalyzed methods for regioselective synthesis of C3-alkylated indoles have been
developed, utilizing alcohols as H atom donors or alkylating agents. The developed
catalytic system could accommodate a broad substrate scope including primary/secondary
aliphatic alcohols and substituted indoles, and in most cases providing good yields.
Notable features of the developed system include high-activity, easy operation, and
air atmosphere.
Key words
transfer hydrogenation - borrowing hydrogen - alkylation - indoles - alcohols