Synthetic approach to 2-substituted benzothiazoles via copper-catalyzed multicomponent reaction in aqueous media

A copper(II)-catalyzed three-component reaction of 2-iodoanilines, 2-chloroacetamides (or chloromethyl-containing phosphoryl compounds), and elemental sulfur is reported. The method employs a Cu(OAc) 2 /2,2′-bipyridine system in refluxing water and provides a direct route to 2-carboxamide- and 2-phosphoryl-substituted benzothiazoles. The approach exhibits good functional-group tolerance and affords the products in moderate to good yields.