Efficient synthesis of substituted 2-aminopyrazines: FeCl3-promoted condensation of hydroxyiminoketones with aminoacetonitriles

Abstract FeCl 3 -promoted condensation of hydroxyiminoketones with aminoacetonitriles followed by catalytic hydrogenation afforded the desired pyrazines in moderate–good yields. This protocol provides an efficient and practical synthesis of substituted 2-aminopyrazines.