The copper-catalyzed synthesis of benzo[4,5]thiazolo[3,2-a]indoles from elemental sulfur and 1-(2-iodophenyl)-1H-indoles is reported. Two sp2 C–S bonds are generated during the process. This is the first example of making benzo[4,5]thiazolo[3,2-a]indoles from elemental sulfur. Control experimental results reveal that polysulfide intermediates might be involved in this process.
![Graphical abstract: Copper-catalyzed synthesis of benzo[4,5]thiazolo[3,2-a]indoles from elemental sulfur and 1-(2-iodophenyl)-1H-indoles](http://hg.y866.cn/compound/lib/scimg/usr/1/D2NJ05660G.jpg)
