Cascade Reaction to Selectively Synthesize Multifunctional Indole Derivatives by IrIII-Catalyzed C−H Activation

An effective and condition-controlled way to synthesize with high selectivity a variety of functionalized indoles with potent biological properties has been developed. Notably, 2,4-dialkynyl indole products were obtained by direct double C−H bond alkynylation, whereas alkynyl at the C4 position could convert to carbonyl to generate 2-alkynyl-3,4-diacetyl indoles fast and effectively. Additionally, a one-pot relay catalytic reaction led to 2,5-di-alkynyl-3,4-diacetyl indoles when using a carbonyl group as the directing group and by controlling the type and quantity of additives. A possible mechanism was proposed based on many studies including deuterium-exchange experiments, the necessary conditions of product conversion, and the effect of water on the reaction.