Process Development and Multikilogram Syntheses of XL228 Utilizing a Regioselective Isoxazole Formation and a Selective S_NAr Reaction to a Pyrimidine Core

Abstract

Route scouting, process development, and multikilogram syntheses of an IGF-1R/Src/Bcr-Abl inihibitor are reported. Key aspects of the developed route are a regioselective [3 + 2] isoxazole formation on a pyrimidine core and a selective SNAr addition of an aryl amine to a symmetrical dichloro substituted pyrimidine. The route contains six synthetic steps and was demonstrated twice on scale, delivering 4.6 and 11.2 kg (25% and 16% overall yield), for Phase I clinical studies.