Cyano Diels-Alder and Cyano Ene Reactions. Applications in a Formal [2+2+2] Cycloaddition Strategy for the Synthesis of Pyridines

Two metal-free, formal [2 + 2 + 2] cycloaddition strategies for the construction of polycyclic pyridine derivatives are described that proceed via pericyclic cascade mechanisms featuring the participation of unactivated cyano groups as enophile and dienophile cycloaddition partners.