Synthesis of malononitriles of potential cytostatic and pesticidal activity by reaction of Grignard reagents with ylidenemalononitriles

Abstract

The preparation of various α-substituted malononitriles, for biological evaluation, by the action of organomagnesium halides on ylidenemalononitriles is described. The nature of the products is dependent on the nature of the Grignard reagent as well as the substrate, in particular their stereochemical requirements. Reaction mechanisms are suggested, and the cytostatic activity of malononitriles is discussed.