An Expeditious Synthesis of 2-C-Cyanoglycals

Abstract An efficient conversion of 2-C-formyl glycals to the corresponding 2-C-cyanoglycals is achieved using azidotrimethylsilane in the presence of catalytic trimethylsilyl trifluoromethanesulfonate. The generality of the reaction is evaluated by applying it to a number of differently protected 2-C-formyl glycals. The methodology features protecting group tolerance, prompt conversion, and excellent yields.