Exploring the catalytic role of the guanidine TBD in carboxylative cyclizations

Abstract

Employing a combination of mechanistic, kinetic and computational studies we have examined the mechanism of the TBD-catalyzed carboxylative cyclization of indole derivatives. Our studies provide insight into the role of the guanidine superbase TBD in catalyzing C–C bond formation between indole derivatives and CO₂.