title: KHMDS enhanced SmI(2)-mediated reformatsky type alpha-cyanation.
abstract: A novel combination of SmI(2), KHMDS, and TsCN can be utilized to introduce a cyano group into structurally diverse and highly sensitive 2-alkyl-chroman-4-ones. Subsequent oxidation allows the formed 2-alkyl-3-cyanochromones to be isolated in yields ranging from 49 to 77%. In addition, alpha-bromoketones and esters were found to undergo equally effective alpha-cyanation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.
authors.forename: Tobias
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Ankner
authors.forename: Maria
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Fridén-Saxin
authors.forename: Nils
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Pemberton
authors.forename: Tina
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Seifert
authors.forename: Morten
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Grøtli
authors.forename: Kristina
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Luthman
authors.forename: Göran
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Hilmersson