Transition-metal-free C–C bond cleavage and formation: efficient synthesis of 2,3-diarylimidazo[1,2-α]pyridines from 2-aminopyridines and alkynoates

Abstract

A highly efficient transition-metal-free cyclization reaction for the synthesis of 2,3-diarylimidazo[1,2-α]pyridines is described. A variety of substituted 2-aminopyridines and alkynoates are compatible under the standard conditions. This protocol is marked by the cleavage of a C–C bond and the formation of a new C_sp²–C_sp² bond under transition-metal-free conditions.