Highly efficient synthesis of 3-indolyl-substituted phthalides via Friedel-Crafts reactions in water

An efficient and simple method for the synthesis of 3-indolyl-substituted phthalides via Friedel-Crafts reaction of indoles with 2-formylbenzoic acids in pure water has been developed. The reaction affords a wide range of 3-indolyl-substituted phthalides in good to excellent yields.