title: Azaindole synthesis through dual activation catalysis with N-heterocyclic carbenes.
abstract: A convergent, transition-metal-free synthesis of 2-aryl-azaindoles has been developed. The interception of a reactive aza-ortho-azaquinone methide intermediate by an acyl anion equivalent generated through carbene catalysis provides high yields, a wide substrate scope, and the synthesis of previously inaccessible azaindoles.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry, Department of Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Innovation and Drug Discovery, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Silverman Hall, Evanston, Illinois 60208, USA. scheidt@northwestern.edu.
authors.forename: Hayden A
authors.initials: HA
authors.lastname: Sharma
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Todd Hovey
authors.forename: Karl A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Scheidt