Cobalt-Catalyzed Formation of 2-Pyridylzinc Reagents and Their Subsequent Coupling

The preparation of pyridylzinc compounds from the corresponding pyridyl halides using a cobalt catalyst is described. The complex employed features a polydentate N-heterocyclic ligand and allows the reaction to be carried out in the absence of pyridine as co-solvent and also in THF in place of acetonitrile. First cross-coupling attempts are also presented. Satisfactory yields were obtained via a one-pot protocol without the addition of another catalyst.