SmI2-Mediated Carbon-Carbon Bond Fragmentation in α-Aminomethyl Malonates

A new and efficient samarium diiodide-promoted carbon-carbon bond fragmentation reaction of alpha-aminomethyl malonates, taking place normally at room temperature and generating the corresponding deaminomethylation products in 74-94% yields, is reported. The presence of the amino group is necessary for the success of the current transformation.