Studies on Pyrrolidinones: Chemistry of Dimethoxytriazines

Abstract

The synthesis of dimethoxytriazine-containing N-aryl substituted pyrrolidinones is realized for the first time. Three new modes of reactivity for these substrates possessing a 4,6-dimethoxy-1,3,5-triazine unit are discussed. Their treatment with acid leads to complete O-demethylation of the methoxy groups, while similar reaction in a basic medium leads to partial O-demethylation. In contrast, heating in the presence of dimethyl sulfate as the catalyst induces migration of the methyl groups from the oxygen atoms to the triazine nitrogens (Hilbert-Johnson transposition). These new scaffolds may demonstrate biological potential.