Preparation of 8-(Arylsulfanyl)adenines with Diazonium Salts under Mild, Aerobic Conditions

Abstract

8-(Arylsulfanyl)adenines 11 were prepared in up to 75% yield by reacting the 8-thionoadenine 6 (acetic acid 3-(6-amino-8-thioxo-7,8-dihydropurin-9-yl)propyl ester) with benzenediazonium tetrafluoroborates in DMSO. Benzenediazonium ions carrying an electron-withdrawing substituent gave the highest yields. The reaction proceeded smoothly at room temperature without any base and could be performed under air atmosphere. The extremely mild conditions are compatible with a wide range of functional groups.