An efficient synthesis of N-fused
polycyclic and 2,3-disubstituted
indoles by copper-catalyzed direct annulation/acyl migration reaction
of enaminones is reported. This strategy features cheap and low loading
of the catalyst/ligand, readily available starting materials, and
good functional group compatibilities. Notably, allyl-containing substrates
are also tolerated, which allows the downstream derivatization toward
indole alkaloids.