A convergent synthesis of vinyloxyimidazopyridine via Cu(i)-catalyzed three-component coupling

Abstract

The synthesis of vinyloxyimidazopyridine with complete regio- and stereoselectivity has been achieved by the Cu(I)-catalyzed three-component coupling of 2-aminopyridine, 2-oxoaldehyde and alkyne. This protocol is operationally very simple and has much potential for the synthesis of heteroarylated vinyl ethers from basic chemicals. Steroidal imidazopyridinyl vinyl ether was obtained successfully from ethynylestradiol.