A novel and direct synthesis of indoles via catalytic reductive annulation of nitroaromatics with alkynes.

Indoles are produced regioselectively and in moderate yields from the reactions of nitroaromatics with alkynes catalyzed by [CpM(CO)2]2 (1; [(eta 5-C5H5)Fe(CO)2]2; [(eta 5-C5Me5)-Fe(CO)2]2; [(eta 5-C5Me5)Ru(CO)2]2) under carbon monoxide.