How is ethyl 5-hydroxy-2-methyl-1H-indole-3-carboxylate (CAS: 7598-91-6) typically synthesized?

Ethyl 5-hydroxy-2-methyl-1H-indole-3-carboxylate (CAS: 7598-91-6) is synthesized via a multi-step process involving the formation of an indole ring followed by esterification. Commonly, this involves the reaction of 2-methyl-1H-indole with acetyl chloride in the presence of a base like pyridine, followed by the addition of an alcohol to form the ester. This method yields a relatively pure product with high selectivity and good yield.