Regioselective Formation of Substituted Indoles: Formal Synthesis of Lysergic Acid

AbstractA Diels–Alder reaction‐based strategy for the synthesis of indoles and related heterocycles is reported. An intramolecular cycloaddition of alkyne‐tethered 3‐aminopyrones gives 4‐substituted indolines in good yield and with complete regioselectivity. Additional substitution is readily tolerated in the transformation, allowing synthesis of complex and non‐canonical substitution patterns. Oxidative conditions give the corresponding indoles. The strategy also allows the synthesis of carbazoles. The method was showcased in a formal synthesis of lysergic acid.