Iodine-catalyzed three component reaction: a novel synthesis of 2-aryl-imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine scaffolds

A facile and efficient protocol for the synthesis of novel 2-aryl-imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines has been developed via a one-pot reaction of aromatic aldehydes with 2-amino-5-chloropyridine and tert-butylisocyanide in the presence of I-2 in ethanol at 70 degrees C. The present approach offers the advantages of a clean and simple methodology, high atom-economy, mild conditions, short reaction times, wide substrate scope, low environmental impact and high yield.