One-pot conversion of aromatic compounds to the corresponding bis(indolyl)methanes by the Vilsmeier–Haack reaction

Various electron-rich aromatics could be smoothly converted into the corresponding bis(indolyl)methanes in good to moderate yields by treatment of electron-rich aromatics with POCl3 and DMF, followed by treatment with indole at room temperature. The present article is the first report on a novel metal-free one-pot method for the preparation of bis(indolyl)methanes from electron-rich aromatics.

Graphical abstractOne-pot conversion of aromatic compounds to the corresponding bis(indolyl)methanes by the Vilsmeier–Haack reaction.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide