Convenient synthesis of 2-(methylsulfonyl)pyrimidine derivatives

An efficient and convenient approach for the preparation of functionalized 2-(methylsulfonyl)pyrimidine derivatives has been developed through cyclic condensation of malonate derivatives with S-methylisothiouronium sulfate followed by derivation and oxidation in water–acetone mixture using oxone as the oxidant. This synthetic strategy provides an efficient and environmentally friendly approach for easy access to 2-(methylsulfonyl)pyrimidine derivatives with considerable yields.