Rh-catalyzed oxidative C2-alkenylation of indoles with alkynes: unexpected cleavage of directing group

A rhodium-catalyzed oxidative C2-alkenylation of indoles containing a N-(p-tolyl)carboxamide group with substituted alkynes via CC bond formation and subsequent CN bond cleavage has been described. This protocol represents direct access to C2-alkenylated free (NH)-indoles, which are important building blocks in the synthesis of natural and pharmacological compounds.