Preparation of Heteroaryl Ethers from Azine N-Oxides and Alcohols.

The heteroaryl ether is an important structural feature in molecules of biological interest, yet it remains a challenge to synthesize. A new and practical method for the synthesis of heteroaryl ethers is reported. In the presence of PyBroP, a variety of nonaromatic alcohols readily add to azine N-oxides to afford the corresponding heteroaryl ethers. The reaction conditions are mild, economical, chemoselective, and compatible with a broad range of substrates. Thirty-eight examples are provided, as is a discussion of reaction optimization and mechanism.