Formation of N-alkoxyindole framework: intramolecular heterocyclization of 3-alkoxyimino-2-arylalkylnitriles mediated by ferric chloride

An Fe[Cl.sub.3]-mediated intramolecular heterocyclization of 3-alkoxyimino-2-arylalkylnitriles is applied to prepare a series of functionalized N-alkoxyindole-3-carbonitrile derivatives. The novel synthetic method allows the N-moiety on the side chain to be annulated to the benzene ring as the final synthetic step which in turn facilitates the functionalization of the benzenoid portion of the indole at an early stage of the synthesis.