文摘
A novel protocol for cobalt(II)-catalyzed synthesis of 2-arylimidazo[1,2-a]pyridines and 3-arylimidazo[1,2-a]pyridines by direct C−N bond formation has been developed. This ligand- and base-free oxidative process is regioselective and has good functional group tolerability. This annulation reaction probably involves a CoII/CoIII catalytic system and uses molecular oxygen (O2) as terminal oxidant. This cobalt catalyst system is simple and efficient, which holds potential for application in C−N bond formation.