Aminothiolation of α-Bromocinnamaldehydes to Access Imidazo[2,1-b]thiazoles by Incorporation of Two Distinct Photoinduced Processes.

A visible-light-promoted metal-free catalytic system was developed to achieve the aminothiolation of α-bromocinnamaldehydes. This mechanistically novel approach allows the synthesis of diverse imidazo[2,1-b]thiazole derivatives in satisfactory yields at room temperature under visible-light irradiation by incorporation of two distinct photoinduced processes. The reaction features readily accessible feedstocks, easy operation, mild reaction conditions, and wide reaction scope.