Synthesis of Indoles via Domino Reactions of 2-Methoxytoluene and Nitriles.

2-Arylindoles are privileged structures widely present in biologically active molecules. New sustainable synthetic routes toward their synthesis are, therefore, in high demand. Herein, a mixed base-promoted benzylic C-H deprotonation of commercially available ortho -anisoles, addition of the resulting anion to benzonitriles, and S N Ar to displace the methoxy group provide indoles. A diverse array of 2-arylindoles is prepared with good yields (>30 examples, yields up to 99%) without added transition metal catalysts.