Regioselective N- and C2-electrophilic substitution of 3-substituted indoles

The reaction of 3-substituted indoles with 2-cyclohexenone under Lewis acid mediated conditions with Bi(NO₃)₃·5H₂O has been investigated. We have demonstrated that electrophilic substitution of 3-substituted indoles with 2-cyclohexenone will readily occur at the nitrogen. Furthermore, the extent of regioselectivity is dependent on reaction solvent and the C3-substituent. Excellent conversion is obtained with good to excellent isolated yields of N- and C2-adducts. In general, more polar, aprotic solvents (CH₃CN) give greater N-selectivity whereas with polar protic solvents (CH₃OH) an increase in the C2-adduct is observed.