Simple route to 3-(2-indolyl)-1-propanones via a furan recyclization reaction

A simple route to 1-R-3-(2-indolyl)-1-propanones has been elaborated based on recyclization of 2-(2-aminobenzyl)furan derivatives. Being a modification of the Reissert indole synthesis, our approach employs the furan ring as a source of carbonyl function. This approach is general and allows varying of substituents in aromatic ring as well as in 3-position of indole nucleus.