Regioselective synthesis of indoles via reductive annulation of nitrosoaromatics with alkynes.

[reaction: see text] Indoles are produced regioselectively and in moderate yields by two new processes: (a) from the [CpRu(CO)2]2-catalyzed reaction of nitrosoaromatics (ArNO) with alkynes under carbon monoxide and (b) in a two-step sequence involving the (uncatalyzed) reaction of ArNO with alkynes, followed by reduction of the intermediate adduct.