A protocol for a tandem Pd/Cu-catalyzed intermolecular
cross-coupling
cascade between o-bromobenzoic acids and 2-(2-bromoaryl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazoles or the corresponding
imidazoles is presented. The protocol provides conceptually novel
and controlled access to synthetically useful N-fused
(benzo)imidazophenanthridine scaffolds with high efficiency, a broad
substrate scope, and excellent functional group compatibility.