Cascade trifluoromethylthiolation and cyclization of N-[(3-aryl)propioloyl]indoles.

A cascade oxidative trifluoromethylthiolation and cyclization of N-[(3-aryl)propioloyl]indoles with AgSCF3 is described. This protocol allows for the synthesis of novel bis(trifluoromethylthiolated) or trifluoromethylthiolated pyrrolo[1,2-a]indol-3-ones in moderate to good yields. Mechanistic investigations indicated that radical processes were probably involved in these transformations.