Design of a new method for the synthesis of novel 2-aryl/alkyl-3H-indol-3-ones.

In this research, a mild, efficient, and general method has been developed to synthesize the new derivatives of 2-aryl/alkyl-3H-indol-3-ones in moderate to excellent yields. This method allowed the syntheses of these compounds via the three-component reaction of anhydride compound, sodium cyanide, and aniline derivatives using acetic anhydride as an organic catalyst in one-pot reactions. The advantages of this method include mild reaction conditions, simple procedures, and easy workup.