Synthesis of Acrylonitriles via Mild Base Promoted Tandem Nucleophilic Substitution-Isomerization of α-Cyanohydrin Methanesulfonates

Main observation and conclusion We have developed an efficient synthesis of acrylonitriles via mild base promoted tandem nucleophilic substitution-isomerization of alpha-cyanohydrin methanesulfonates with alkenylboronic acids. This transition metal-free protocol works under simple and mild conditions and offers good chemical yields for a wide range of substrates and demonstrates good functional group tolerance.

Automated summary

This study presents an efficient synthesis of acrylonitriles via a mild and transition metal-free protocol with good chemical yields for a wide range of substrates and good functional group tolerance.