Synthesis of N–H vinylaziridines: a comparative study

Vinylaziridines are useful and versatile synthetic intermediates, as the relief of ring-strain provides a driving force for efficient ring-opening or ring-expansion reactions. Furthermore, the vinyl group can be derivatized into interesting functionalities. The ring-closure of vicinal amino alcohols constitutes a straightforward route to aziridines. Several methods exist for this transformation, although many cannot be applied to vinylaziridines due to their acid lability. This comparative study describes the most effective sequences for the formation of N–H vinylaziridines.