Stereoselective Synthesis of cis-2 and trans-2-(Indol-3-yl) Cyclopropyl Amines,Carboxylic Acids,and Esters

We report a general route for the synthesis of E and Z isomers of indol-3-yl cyclopropyl amines, carboylic acids, and esters. These cyclopropane containing molecules are of interest as conformationally constrained analogues of tryptamine and indole propionic acid, biologically active indoles. The route involves reaction of vinyl indole with ethyl diazoacetate, chromatographic separation of the E and Z stereoisomers of the resulting cyclopropane esters, hydrolysis to form the E and Z cyclopropane acids, and formation of amines by the Curtius reaction.