Copper-Catalyzed C-H Functionalization of Pyridines and Isoquinolines with Vinyl Azides: Synthesis of Imidazo Heterocycles

Copper(I) iodide-catalyzed oxidative C(sp(2))H functionalization of pyridines and isoquinolines for the synthesis of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines and 2-phenylimidazo[2,1-a]isoquinolines with vinyl azides under mild aerobic conditions is reported. Good selectivity for 3-substituted pyridines and single isomer formation with isoquinolines were observed.