A Mild and Efficient C-3 Allylic Alkylation of Indoles Catalyzed by FeCl3

A mild and efficient allylic alkylation of indole derivatives has been developed with high regioselectivity and excellent yields. In the presence of 1mol% FeCl3 catalyst, various indole derivatives could react with allylic acetates at room temperature to provide C-3 allylation products. A green synthesis of C-3 allylated indoles was developed employing FeCl3 as catalyst in water.