Isothiourea-catalyzed addition of aryl acetates to vinylogous imine intermediates generated in situ from arylsulfonyl indoles

Indole propionates are essential precursors for the construction of indole-propionic acid with TRPC6 inhibitory activity. Herein, we developed a novel approach to multisubstituted indole propionates via isothiourea-catalyzed addition of aryl acetates to vinylimine intermediates, which are generated in situ from arylsulfonyl indoles under mild conditions. This new method features a broad substrate scope and good yields. Importantly, it enabled us to complete the concise syntheses of indole-propionic acid with TRPC6 inhibitory activity through the hydrolysis of indole propionate. We developed a novel approach to the synthesis of multisubstituted indole propionates via isothiourea-catalyzed addition of aryl acetates to vinylimine intermediates generated in situ from arylsulfonyl indoles under mild conditions. The new method features a broad substrate scope and in good yield. Importantly, It enabled us to complete the concise syntheses of indole-propionic acid with TRPC6 inhibitory activity through the hydrolysis of indole propionate.