Synthesis of aminopyridines via an unprecedented nucleophilic aromatic substitution of cyanopyridines

The direct reaction of 2- and 4-cyanopyridines with lithium amides affords good yields of the corresponding amino-pyridines via displacement of cyanide. Addition of CsF accelerates the reaction and can lead to significantly higher yields. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.