Nickel-Catalyzed Deaminative Ketone Synthesis: Coupling of Alkylpyridinium Salts with Thiopyridine Esters via C-N Bond Activation.

A direct synthesis of ketones by the nickel-catalyzed deaminative cross-coupling of alkylpyridinium salts with thiopyridine esters has been reported. The reaction works well for both primary and secondary amines. This approach affords a highly valuable vista for the facile synthesis of ketones from easily accessible feedstock chemicals. The utility of this method is demonstrated through the functionalization of complex bioactives and pharmaceuticals.