TBAI-catalyzed oxidative coupling of aminopyridines with β-keto esters and 1,3-diones-synthesis of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines.

TBAI could catalyze the direct oxidative C-N coupling of 2-aminopyridines with β-keto esters and 1,3-diones, which affords imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines as the products. The reaction was realized under metal-free conditions by using tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as the oxidant.