C(sp2)-H Bond Multiple Functionalization in Air for Construction of Tetrahydrocarbazoles with Continuous Quaternary Carbons and Polycyclic Diversification.

The C(sp2)-H function of indole ketone with diazo compound via a rhodium(II)-catalyzed intramolecular electrophilic trapping reaction under mild conditions in air was demonstrated. The established methodology provided a highly efficient approach for direct synthesis of mutisubstituted tetrahydrocarbazoles with continuous quaternary carbons. The resulting products facilitate further modification to conveniently construct tetrahydrocarbazoles with additional fused heterocyclic rings. By phenotypic screening, several products exhibit good anticancer bioctivities in osteosarcoma cell lines.