One-pot synthesis of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines from benzyl halides or benzyl tosylates, 2-aminopyridines and isocyanides

A one-pot synthesis of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines is described. Benzyl halides or benzyl tosylates are oxidized to aldehydes under mild Kornblum conditions which then undergo a three-component reaction with various 2-aminopyridines and isocyanides to afford the imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines in excellent yields.