Synlett 2016; 27(03): 320-330
DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1560801
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© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Nucleophilic Capture of Unsymmetrical Oxyallyl Cations with Indoles under Mild Brønsted Acid Catalysis

Jacob R. Stepherson
Department of Chemistry, 232 Choppin Hall, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA   Email: rkartika@lsu.edu
,
Caitlan E. Ayala
Department of Chemistry, 232 Choppin Hall, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA   Email: rkartika@lsu.edu
,
Nitin S. Dange
Department of Chemistry, 232 Choppin Hall, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA   Email: rkartika@lsu.edu
,
Rendy Kartika*
Department of Chemistry, 232 Choppin Hall, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA   Email: rkartika@lsu.edu
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Received: 02 August 2015

Accepted after revision: 25 September 2015

Publication Date:
07 December 2015 (online)


Abstract

We recently reported a new synthetic method in our laboratory concerning the control of regioselectivity in the addition of nucleophiles, such as indoles, to unsymmetrical oxyallyl cations. These reactive intermediates were readily generated upon ionization of the corresponding α-hydroxy enol ether precursors under catalytic, mild Brønsted acid. Results from our expansive scope of substrate studies revealed that regioselectivity in this reaction could be regulated upon protection of the oxygen atom in the oxyallyl cation moiety as well as modulation of the stereoelectronic effects in the participating α vs. α′ substituents.