Base-Promoted Three-Component One-Pot Synthesis of 3- (Thiomethyl)indoles with Paraformaldehyde under Aqueous Conditions

An ethylenediamine-promoted three-component synthesis of 3-(thiomethyl)indoles from indoles, thiophenols, and paraformaldehyde has been developed. Water is used as the green solvent in a simple and environmentally friendly procedure. Stable and low-toxicity paraformaldehyde is used as a carbon source.