Synthesis of (Z)-1-benzylidene-3-(1H-indol-1-yl)-1H-indene-2,2(3H)-dicarbonitriles via three-component reaction of 2-alkynylbenzaldehyde, malononitrile, and indole

Three-component reaction of 2-alkynylbenzaldehyde, malononitrile, and indole under mild conditions is described, which generates the desired (Z)-1-benzylidene-3-(1H-indol-1-yl)-1H-indene-2,2(3H)-dicarbonitriles in moderate to good yields. This reaction proceeds smoothly with high selectivity. The tandem condensation, nucleophilic addition, and 5-exo-cyclization may be involved in the process.