One-Pot Synthesis of 3-Cyano-2-pyridones

A versatile synthesis of 3-cyano-2-pyridones via a one-pot, four-component condensation of ethyl cyanoacetate, ketones, aldehydes, and ammonium acetate under very mild conditions has been developed. This method provides rapid access to this type of valuable heterocyclic compounds from readily available materials in a single operation.