Rhodium(III)-catalyzed double C–H activation: a straightforward approach to fused imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines from internal alkynes

The Rh(III)-catalyzed oxidative coupling of 2-aryl-imidazopyridines with internal alkynes via double C–H activation has been described. This approach provides straightforward access to highly functionalized polycyclic imidazopyridines in good to excellent yields.