Methods of making indole analogs using a rhodium-containing catalyst are described, along with methods of using the compounds to treat hyperglycemic, hyperlipidemic, or autoimmune disorders in mammals, and corresponding pharmaceutical compositions. Disclosed herein is a method of making indoles. The method comprises contacting a reactant of formula I wherein E is a protecting group, —SO2-Aryl, or —SO2-substituted-Aryl; and R and R2 are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halo, C1-C12-alkyl and aryl; with a rhodium(1)-containing catalyst.