Bridging homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis with MOFs: Cu-MOFs as solid catalysts for three-component coupling and cyclization reactions for the synthesis of propargylamines, indoles and imidazopyridines

► Copper-MOFs catalyze three-component coupling reactions leading to propargylamines. ► They are highly active, selective, stable and reusable catalysts. ► Indoles can also be formed after an additional intramolecular cyclization step. ► Lamellar [Cu(BDC)] is an efficient catalyst for the formation of imidazopyridines. ► [Cu(BDC)] changes into an inactive structure, but it is regenerated by DMF treatment.