Electrochemical Dearomative 2,3-Difunctionalization of Indoles

Abstract

We report the use of electrochemistry to perform a direct oxidative dearomatization of indoles leading to 2,3-dialkoxy or 2,3-diazido indolines under undivided conditions at a constant current. This operationally simple electro-oxidative procedure avoids the use of an external oxidant and displays excellent functional group compatibility. The formation of the two C-O or C-N bonds is believed to arise from the oxidation of the indoles into radical cation intermediates.