Straightforward protocol for the efficient synthesis of varied N1-acylated (aza) indole 2-/3-alkanoic acids and esters: optimization and scale-up

A library of approximately 40 N-1-acylated (aza)indole alkanoic esters and acids was prepared employing a microwave-assisted approach. The optimized synthetic route allows for parallel synthesis, variation of the indole substitution pattern, and high overall yield. Additionally, the procedure has been scaled up to yield multi-gram amounts of preferred indole compounds, e.g.: 2'-des-methyl indomethacin 2. The reported compounds were designed as biomedical tools for primary and secondary in vitro and in vivo studies at relevant molecular targets. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.