Functionalization of Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines by Means of Metal‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling Reactions

This review surveys recent developments (reported in the last fifteen years) in organometallic‐chemistry‐based methods for the functionalization of imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines, in particular the decoration of the pyridine and imidazole rings by means of reactions such as Sonogashira, Heck, Negishi, Suzuki–Miyaura, and Stille cross‐coupling, as well as by C–H activation, C‐arylation, C‐alkenylation, and carbonylation. Results relating to one‐pot double functionalization of two different positions on the imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridine system are also reviewed. Procedures in which metal‐based catalysis is not involved in the functionalization of imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines are not included.