InCl3-assisted one-pot synthesis of 1-aminocarbazoles

A novel InCl3-mediated one-pot reaction leading to 1-aminocarbazoles is reported. Starting from easily available 2-acetyl-1H-indole, the reaction involves the alkylation of C-3 with a prop-2-yn-1-ol followed by a domino aminobenzannulation reaction in the presence of a secondary amine. The indium salt is most likely involved as catalyst in all three steps of the one-pot reaction. Starting from 2-acetyl-1H-indole and a series of prop-2-yn-1-ols and secondary amines a small library of products has been obtained.