| abstract |
A regioselective metal catalyzed synthesis of benzimidazoles and azabenzimidazoles The present invention relates to a process for the regioselective synthesis of compounds of the formula (I), wherein R1; R2; R3; R4; J1; J2; J3; J4 and G have the meanings indicated in the claims. The present invention provides a direct metal, e.g. palladium or copper, catalyzed, regioselective process to a wide variety of unsymmetrical, multifunctional N--substituted benzimidazoles or azabenzimidazoles of formula (I) starting from 2-halo- nitroarenes and N-substituted amides useful for the production of pharmaceuticals, diagnostic agents, liquid crystals, polymers, herbicides, fungicidals, nematicidals, parasiticides, |