Electrochemical synthesis of 1,2,4,5-tetrasubstituted imidazoles from enamines and benzylamines

Abstract

An electrochemical method for synthesizing 1,2,4,5-tetrasubstituted imidazoles was developed under undivided electrolytic conditions. This synthesis was specifically realized based on electrochemical C(sp³)–H amination via enamines and amines. Readily available starting materials were used, avoiding the use of both transition metals and oxidants. The practicability of the method lies in its broad substrate adaptability and in its ability to provide a simple green pathway for synthesizing GABA_A receptor analogs.