Cesium carbonate mediated synthesis of 3-(α-hydroxyaryl)indoles

A series of 3-(α-hydroxyaryl)indoles have been synthesized by the reaction of aromatic aldehydes with indoles, catalyzed by cesium carbonate in DMF medium. The reactivity of the various alkali metal carbonates is discussed. The stability of 3-(α-hydroxyaryl)indoles is also discussed.