Exploring the capabilities of 2-alkynyl aryl/benzyl azides: synthesis approaches for indoles, quinolines, and their derivatives via transition metal catalysis

Abstract

In recent research, quinoline and indole structures have gained recognition for their significant clinical relevance and effectiveness. These compounds are known for their wide-ranging pharmacological effects, which include anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers have successfully implemented a variety of innovative synthetic strategies, leading to the creation of numerous compounds that display fascinating biological activities in diverse fields. This has sparked growing interest in developing quinoline and indole-based analogues, given their impressive variety of biological effects. Over the past few years, new, efficient, and more accessible synthetic techniques—such as green chemistry and microwave-assisted synthesis—have been introduced to produce a diverse array of quinoline and indole structures. This development reflects an expanding area of interest in both academic and industrial settings, making it easier to investigate their biological capabilities. In this review, we examine the intriguing transformations of 2-alkynyl aryl and benzyl azide derivatives into indoles and quinolines, emphasizing the role of metal catalysts such as Au, Cu, Rh, Pd, and Ag, from 2011 to 2024. We showcase the variety of substrates involved, highlight notable advancements in this area of research, and address the limitations faced by chemists. Additionally, we offer insights into the mechanisms driving these important reactions, aiming to enhance understanding and inspire future work in this dynamic field.