| abstract |
ABSTRACT A process is provided for the preparation of a compound of formula (I) or a salt thereof: (I) wherein R1 is hydrogen or a C1-4 alkyl, comprising reacting a compound of formula II: (II) with an agent serving to introduce the alkynyl radical of formula -C=CR1 (wherein R1 is as described above) at the 5-position of the pyrimidine base, the reaction being carried out in the presence of an N1-6 alkylmorpholine, wherein said alkyl moiety being optionally substituted by an alkoxy or halogen group; and optionally thereafter converting into a salt. |