Liquid-phase parallel synthesis of tetrahydro-β-carbolines

Parallel synthesis of β-carbolines on soluble polyethylene glycol (PEG-OH) support is demonstrated. One-pot condensation of polymer-bound tryptophan residues with various aldehydes and ketones has been carried out in the presence of p-TSA as a catalyst to deliver immobilized 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carbolines. Subsequent disengagement of the appendant from the polymer support afforded the desired products in good yield and acceptable purity.