Zig-zag-fused π-extended BODIPYs via gold-catalysed cycloisomerisation.

π-Extension of the BODIPY core is an effective strategy to modulate the physical properties of BODIPYs. However, π-extension on the zig-zag edge of BODIPYs remains unexplored. Here, we disclose the synthesis of zig-zag-fused BODIPYs through gold-catalysed cycloisomerisation. The obtained BODIPYs show fascinating photophysical properties including near-infrared absorption and emission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]