An organocatalytic asymmetric vinylogousMichaeladdition of dicyanoolefins to vinylogousimineintermediatesgenerated in situfrom arenesulfonylalkylindoles has been developed. This protocol provides an easy and convenient approach to C-3 alkyl-substituted indole derivatives with high yields (up to 93%), diastereomeric ratios (up to 99:1 dr) and enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee). The resulting
An efficient enantioselective Michael addition of 2-naphthols to alkylideneindolenines generated in situ from arenesulfonylalkylindoles has been described. The protocol provides an efficient and convenient access to C-3 alkyl-substituted indole derivatives containing phenolic hydroxyl groups with high yields (up to 96%) and enantioselectivities (up to 98% ee) under mild conditions. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.