Three-component synthesis of α-amino-α-aryl carbonitriles from arynes, aroyl cyanides, and N,N-dimethylformamide

A general and efficient synthesis of α-amino-α-aryl carbonitriles through the three-component reaction of arynes, aroyl cyanides, and DMF in a single step is described. DMF was not only used as the solvent, but it also participated in the reaction as a component. Used as the cyanide sources, the aroyl cyanides solved the toxicity and solubility problems associated with the use of HCN or metal cyanides in the Strecker synthesis. This procedure furnished α-amino-α-aryl carbonitriles in moderate to good yields with broad substrate scope. Moreover, this reaction could be performed under mild conditions with high atom economy.