Zirconium oxide nano-catalyzed synthesis of pharmacologically important bis(indolyl)methanes: a highly efficient and mild approach

Abstract

We report herein a highly efficient and mild approach for synthesizing pharmacologically active bis(indolyl)methanes 3a–z, utilizing ZrO₂ nanoparticles as a catalyst. The method involves a condensation reaction between indole and diverse aromatic aldehydes in acetonitrile under mild conditions. The ZrO₂ nano-catalyst prepared via a co-precipitation method demonstrates exceptional efficacy, leading to favourable yields of the target bis(indolyl)methanes 3a–z. The versatility of this methodology is highlighted through substrate screening, showcasing its applicability to various aromatic aldehydes.