Highly effective and regioselective Michael addition of indoles to α,β-unsaturated ketones promoted by pentafluorophenylammonium triflate

A simple, inexpensive, environmentally friendly and efficient route for Michael addition of indoles to α,β-unsaturated ketones using pentafluorophenylammonium triflate (PFPAT) as a catalyst is described. Various indole derivatives were synthesized in good to excellent yields. The preparation of PFPAT catalyst from simple and readily available starting materials makes this method more affordable.