Aminobromination of ethyl α -cyanocinnamate derivatives with 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dimethylhydantoin(DBDMH) as nitrogen and halogen sources

1,3-Dibromo-5,5-dimethylhydantoin(DBDMH) was found to be a new and efficient nitrogen/halogen source for the aminobromination of ethyl α-cyanocinnamate derivatives catalyzed by K3PO4. The reaction afforded the aminobrominated products in high yields at room temperature, and the full regiospecificity of all the products were achieved. A possible pathway involving a Michael addition for this aminobromination was suggested.