Photoredox Fischer Indole Synthesis

Photoredox Fischer Indole Synthesis: A. Kaga, T. Fukushima, J. Shimokawa, M. Kitamura
Synthesis 2019, DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1611535

The Fischer indole synthesis is a classic process in organic chemistry. Despite its usefulness and its countless applications – ready availability of the starting materials and economical one-step experimental procedure are among the strengths of this reaction – the method has limitations in scope, mainly arising from the harsh experimental conditions often required. The group of Professor Masato Kitamura from Nagoya University (Japan) recently reported a mild photoredox version of the reaction. 

Prof. Kitamura and Prof. Shimokawa said: “Traditional Fischer indole synthesis is still a great methodology, but certain indole products are obtained with some erosion of the yields due to the high temperature or acidic conditions used. Our new photoredox Fischer indole synthesis can now be performed under milder conditions for the selected substrates. We believe the new methodology and the proposed mechanism could be pivotal for further development of heterocyclic syntheses.” 

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