Nitroepoxides as Versatile Precursors to 1,4-Diamino Heterocycles

Nitroepoxides are easily transformed into 1,4-diamino heterocycles such as quinoxalines and pyrazines by treatment with 1,2-benzenediamines and ammonia, respectively. Additionally, related saturated heterocycles, such as piperazines and tetrahydroquinoxalines, can be accessed by treatment with 1,2-diamines and a reducing agent. These transformations are efficient, provide access privileged, bioactive structures, and produce minimal waste.