A convenient method for the synthesis of 7-amino-substituted 1,2,4-triazolo[1,5-a][1,3,5]triazin-5-amines

A new practical synthesis of 7-amino-substituted 1,2,4-triazolo[1,5-a][1,3,5]triazin-5-amines is developed. The triazine ring closure of 5-guanidino-3-phenyl-1,2,4-triazole with trichloroacetonitrile proceeds chemo- and regioselectively depending on the nature of the solvent. Conducting the reaction in toluene provided 7-trichloromethyl-1,2,4-triazolo[1,5-a][1,3,5]triazin-5-amine as the product, which can be further aminated efficiently with replacement of the trichloromethyl group.