K2S2O8-mediated acylarylation of unactivated alkenes via acyl radical addition/C-H annulation cascade of N-allyl-indoles with silver cocatalysis

A silver-catalyzed, K2S2O8-mediated protocol to access regioselective acylarylation of unactivated alkenes was discussed. The reaction conducted smoothly between N-allyl-indoles and α-oxocarboxylic acids involving an acyl radical addition/C-H cyclization cascade, accomplishing with broad substrate scope and well tolerance of functional groups. The reaction combines internal and terminal alkenes to furnish profusely functional pyrrolo[1,2-a]indoles bearing ketone carbonyl group, which also provide a potential for the construction of structurally complex N-containing heterocycles.