Efficient Synthesis of α-Ketoamides via 2-Acyl-5-aminooxazoles by Reacting Acyl Chlorides and α-Isocyanoacetamides

Acyl chlorides and alpha-isocyanoacetamides undergo an efficient reaction in dichloromethane in the presence of triethylamine to give 2-acyl-5-aminooxazoles. Subsequent acid hydrolysis of the 5-aminooxazole moiety leads to alpha-ketoamides in good overall yields.