Convenient two-step preparation of [1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]pyridines from 2-hydrazinopyridine and carboxylic acids

Triazolopyridines are an important class of biologically active heterocyclic compounds. In this letter, we describe a new method for the synthesis of [1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a]pyridines starting from 2-hydrazinopyridine and carboxylic acids. The resulting acetohydrazides are cyclized in a key step using the Lawesson's reagent. The reaction conditions were explored, as well as the scope of this reaction concerning the substituent in position 3 of the triazolopyridine ring. We also demonstrated that this heterocyclization is racemization free in the presence of a chiral carbon in position α to the heterocycle.