Provided are compounds which are indole derivatives, as well as pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds. Also provided are methods of using the indole compounds for preventing or treating a disease, or a condition that predisposes to a disease, wherein the disease or condition is associated with activation of the serine/threonine kinase B (Akt) in an animal. The method comprises administering to the animal a preventive or treatment effective amount of the indole compound. Further provided is a method for increasing apoptosis of an animal cell comprising contacting the cell with the indole compound.