Modular Continuous Flow Synthesis of Imatinib and Analogues

Publication
Organic Letters 21(15), 6112-6116, DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.9b02259

A modular continuous flow synthesis of imatinib and analogues is reported. Structurally diverse imatinib analogues are rapidly generated using three readily available building blocks via a flow hydration/chemoselective C–N coupling sequence. The newly developed continuous flow hydration and amidation modules each exhibit a broad scope with good to excellent yields. Overall, the method described does not require solvent switches, in-line purifications, or packed-bed apparatuses due to the judicious manipulation of flow setups and solvent mixtures.