A metathes is-based approach to the synthesis of 2-pyridones and pyridines

The ring-closing metathesis reaction has been successfully employed to form a range of dihydropyridone intermediates, which are in the correct oxidation state to undergo a base-induced elimination to reveal the aromatic 2-pyridone. This mild and novel approach to six-membered heteroaromatic compounds then provides access to a wide variety of substituted pyridines in excellent overall yield.