In this study meta-selective single-step bromination and chlorination reactions of pyridines and their derivatives are developed, with pyridinium radical cations as the key intermediates. A spin-density-controlled radical coupling process is proposed to be responsible for the reactivity and selectivity. The reaction features broad functional group tolerance with applicability in late-stage diversifications.
- Jihua Zhang
- Guozhen Wu
- Qiang Cheng
