Generation of α-Imin Gold Carbenes through Gold-Catalyzed Intermolecular Reaction of Azides with Ynamides

The generation of a-imino gold carbenes via gold-catalyzed intermolecular reaction of azides and ynamides is disclosed. This new methodology allows for highly regioselective access to valuable 2,aminoindoles and 3-amino-beta-carbolines in generally good to excellent yields. A mechanistic rationale for this tandem reaction, especially for the observed high regioselectivity, is supported by DFT calculations.