Mild, General, and Regioselective Synthesis of 2-Aminopyridines from Pyridine N-Oxides via N-(2-Pyridyl)pyridinium Salts

Abstract A synthesis of 2-aminopyridines from pyridine N-oxides via their corresponding N-(2-pyridyl)pyridinium salts has been demonstrated and investigated. The reaction sequence features a highly regioselective conversion of the N-oxide into its pyridinium salt followed by hydrolytic decomposition of the pyridinium moiety to furnish the 2-aminopyridine product. The method is compatible with a wide range of functional groups, is scalable, and features inexpensive reagents. 15N-labeling results gave products consistent with a Zincke reaction mechanism.