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 N1-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.