Synthesis of 2‐Amino Benzazoles through Elemental Selenium‐Promoted Cyclization of ortho‐Substituted Anilines and Isocyanides

A facile and transition metal‐free method has been developed for the synthesis of 2‐amino benzazoles through elemental selenium promoted cyclization reaction of ortho‐substituted anilines with isocyanides under mild conditions. Through this strategy, a series of 2‐amino benzooxa/(thia)zoles and benzimidazoles could be efficiently obtained in good to excellent yields with favorable functional group tolerance.