Zirconium oxide nano-catalyzed synthesis of pharmacologically important bis(indolyl)methanes: a highly efficient and mild approach

Abstract

We report herein a highly efficient and mild approach for synthesizing pharmacologically active bis(indolyl)methanes 3a-z, utilizing ZrO₂ nanoparticles as a catalyst. The method involves a condensation reaction between indole and diverse aromatic aldehydes in acetonitrile under mild conditions. The ZrO₂ nano-catalyst prepared <i>via</i> a co-precipitation method demonstrates exceptional efficacy, leading to favourable yields of the target bis(indolyl)methanes 3a-z. The versatility of this methodology is highlighted through substrate screening, showcasing its applicability to various aromatic aldehydes.