Eco-friendly synthesis of pyridines via rhodium-catalyzed cyclization of diynes with oximes

We describe a new route for the synthesis of pyridines via [2 + 2 + 2] cycloaddition of diynes and oximes catalyzed by Rh(NBD)2BF4/MeO-Biphep using ethanol as an alternative green reaction medium, affording the desired pyridine derivatives in yields of up to 93%. This environmentally friendly method meets the requirement for green chemistry by minimizing pollution from solvents and is tolerant of a range of functional groups.