Synthesis of indoles through Rh(III)-catalyzed C-H cross-coupling with allyl carbonates

A practical Rh-catalyzed reaction was developed to achieve 2-alkyl-substituted indole synthesis. The reaction can tolerate a variety of synthetically important functional groups (aryl-Br, heterocycle, amino acid). The indole products can also be transformed into other important skeletons. Two bioactive compounds, that is, indomethacin and pravadoline were prepared using the new method.