A multicomponent reaction of arynes, isocyanides, and terminal alkynes: highly chemo- and regioselective synthesis of polysubstituted pyridines and isoquinolines.

Many components make light work: A novel synthetic strategy for the preparation of pyridines and isoquinolines in high chemo- and regioselectivity has been developed. By manipulating the reaction conditions, either product can be generated smoothly in a highly efficient and atom-economic manner (see scheme).