Parallel synthesis of an indole-based library via an iterative Mannich reaction sequence

A library of 1,3-disubstituted indoles has been prepared via an iterative Mannich reaction sequence. The first Mannich reaction with secondary amines and formaldehyde preferentially yields 3-aminomethyl indoles, while the second Mannich reaction introduces an additional aminomethyl group at the N1-position of the indole ring. A library of 25 substituted indoles has thus been prepared in moderate to good yields with purity.