Direct one-pot introduction of 2-methylpyridines to Baylis–Hillman adducts via base-mediated 3-aza-Cope rearrangement

An efficient and regioselective introduction method of 2-methylpyridines to the secondary position of Baylis–Hillman adducts has been developed. A base treatment of 2-methylpyridinium salt of Baylis–Hillman bromide generated N-allylenamine intermediate which underwent a facile 3-aza-Cope rearrangement under mild conditions to produce the product.