Visible-Light-Promoted and EDA Complex-Driven [4 + 2] Annulation for the Construction of Naphtho[1′,2′:4,5]imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines

A green visible-light-promoted and electron donor–acceptor (EDA) complex-driven synthetic strategy for the construction of value-added naphtho[1′,2′:4,5]imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines from 2-arylimidazo[1,2-a]pyridines with Z-α-bromocinnamaldehydes has been accomplished under photocatalyst- and transition-metal-free conditions. This efficient annulation approach provides a new and straightforward pathway for the annulative π-extension of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine-based aromatics. Moreover, the sustainable methodology exhibits simple operation, a wide range of substrates, benign conditions, and good functional group compatibility.