A simple general method for conversion of functionalized esters to functionalized amides

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/S0040-4039(00)79013-7

An efficient and easy new method for the conversion of amino-esters into amino-amides is described. In a one pot reaction between dialkyllithium amide and some amino-esters of thiophene and benzene, the corresponding amino-N-dialkylamides have been synthesized in high yields. The method was extended to malonic and phenylacetic esters. The reaction mechanism involves an anionic intermediate characterized by germylation.