Synthesis of Indole Terpenoid Mimics through a Functionality-Tolerated Eu(fod)3-Catalyzed Conjugate Addition.

The chemical synthesis of indole terpenoids of structural and biological interests has attracted remarkable attention. Here we report an Eu(fod)₃-catalyzed indole conjugate addition reaction, which tolerates various acid-sensitive functional groups. A collection of indole terpenoid mimics have been prepared from natural product-derived α,β-unsaturated enones on the basis of this reaction. The further conversion of the indole adducts into more complex natural product-like molecules has also been demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]