An efficient synthesis of 5-halo-6-trifluoromethylpyridine-3-carbonitriles and carboxylic acids

Abstract

Trifluoromethyl containing heterocycles are an integral part of many biologically active compounds in the agro and pharmaceutical chemistry. Herein, we report an efficient and concise three-step synthesis of 5-halo-6-trifluoromethylpyridine-3-carbonitriles from a trifluoroacetyl vinylogous enamine starting material. Hydrolysis furnishes the carboxylic acids.