A Novel Entry to Functionalized Benzofurans and Indoles via Palladium(0)-Catalyzed Arylative Dearomatization of Furans

A novel entry to functionalized benzofurans and indoles from furans in moderate to good yields has been developed. This protocol involves palladium(0)-catalyzed dearomatizing intramolecular arylation of the furan ring, formation of a π-allylic palladium complex, furan ring opening, and a β-hydride elimination sequence.