N,O-Bidentate ligand-tunable copper(II) complexes as a catalyst for Chan–Lam coupling reactions of arylboronic acids with 1H-imidazole derivatives

An efficient procedure for Chan–Lam coupling reactions of arylboronic acids with 1H-imidazole derivatives using N,O-bidentate ligand-tunable copper(II) complexes as a catalyst under base-free conditions has been developed. This protocol features mild reaction conditions, high yields and compatibility with different functional groups, providing a direct and facile strategy for the construction of C–N bonds and synthesis of heterocyclic compounds.