Aldol-type compounds from water-soluble indole-3,4-diones: synthesis, kinetics, and antiviral properties.

A straightforward transformation of indole-3,4-diones is reported. The reaction feasibility is evidenced by kinetic studies on a model substrate, revealing a double phase process with a first faster pseudo-first-order step (i.e., deprotonation of the dione and self-nucleophilic attack of the anion) and a subsequent slower dehydration of the intermediate. The overall process is faster at pH higher than the pK value of the investigated substrate. The biological relevance of new compounds has been assessed in vitro against herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1), showing a more promising biological profile with respect to their precursors.