Rh(iii)-Catalyzed Csp2–Csp3 bond alkoxylation of α-indolyl alcohols via C–C σ bond cleavage

Abstract

A Rh(III)-catalyzed direct Csp²–Csp³ bond alkoxylation of α-(2-indolyl)alcohols with alcohols has been reported. This transformation features a rapid C–C sigma bond/C–O single bond switch, and provides a novel approach for assembling 2-alkoxylindole skeletons. A catalytic cycle involving a β-aryl elimination process is proposed.