Formal C(sp²)–C(sp²) cross-coupling of vinyl azides with indoles

Carbon-Carbon cross-coupling reactions are reliable and effective tools for the assembly of functional target molecules. These processes are often catalyzed by transition metals with use of vinyl and aryl halides, triflates, or mesylates as coupling precursors. Herein, we report the Lewis acid catalyzed coupling and formal C-H functionalization of indoles with vinyl azides. The reaction affords the corresponding di- or trisubstituted alkenes, typically in high yield and with high stereoselectivity and is compatible with a number of functional groups.