The Orthogonal Heterocyclic Building Block for Kinase Inhibitors, Agrochemicals, and OLED Materials: 5-Bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine (CAS# 67443-38-3)

5-Bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine (CAS# 67443-38-3), also known as 2-chloro-3-nitro-5-bromopyridine or 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitro-pyridine, is a polysubstituted heteroaromatic building block with the molecular formula C₅H₂BrClN₂O₂ and a molecular weight of 237.44 g/mol. Its molecular structure features a pyridine core bearing three distinct reactive functional groups: a bromine atom at the 5-position, a chlorine atom at the 2-position, and a nitro moiety at the 3-position. This unique substitution pattern—combining a bromine atom (preferential Suzuki-Miyaura coupling site), a chlorine atom (SNAr/Buchwald-Hartwig amination site), and a nitro directing group—enables sequential, orthogonal functionalization of the pyridine scaffold without the need for protecting group chemistry. The compound typically appears as a yellow to light orange crystalline powder with a melting point range of 64–70°C, a predicted boiling point of approximately 285.4°C at 760 mmHg, and a density of 1.9±0.1 g/cm³. It is soluble in common organic solvents including DMSO, methanol, acetone, ethanol, and dichloromethane, but insoluble in water.

As a versatile, differentiated halogenated nitropyridine, this compound has emerged as an indispensable building block in pharmaceutical R&D—particularly in the synthesis of dual ATM/DNA-PK inhibitors for antitumor therapy—as well as in agrochemical development, dye manufacturing, and OLED technology. Based on its chemical characteristics and industrial significance, this article systematically analyzes the key properties, core application areas, global market structure, regulatory landscape, and future outlook of this strategically important heterocyclic building block.

Key Properties and Reactivity Profile

5-Bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine (CAS# 67443-38-3) is a polysubstituted pyridine derivative whose value derives from the orthogonal reactivity of its three functional groups.

Key physicochemical parameters include:

• Molecular Formula: C₅H₂BrClN₂O₂
• Molecular Weight: 237.44 g/mol
• CAS Number: 67443-38-3
• MDL Number: MFCD00222270
• Appearance: Light orange to yellow to green powder to crystal
• Melting Point: 64–70°C (literature 66–70°C)
• Boiling Point: 285.4±35.0°C at 760 mmHg (predicted)
• Density: 1.9±0.1 g/cm³ (predicted)
• SMILES: [O-]N+C1=CC(Br)=CN=C1Cl
• InChIKey: WWQQPSDIIVXFOX-UHFFFAOYSA-N
• Purity: ≥98.0% (GC)
• Storage: Room temperature, cool and dark place, <15°C
• GHS Classification: Warning; H302 (Harmful if swallowed), H315 (Causes skin irritation), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation)
• Transport Information: UN 2811, Toxic solids, organic, n.o.s., 6.1, III

The compound’s differentiated halogen reactivity is its defining feature: the bromine atom at C5 serves as the preferential site for palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions (Suzuki-Miyaura, Buchwald-Hartwig), while the chlorine at C2 enables subsequent nucleophilic aromatic substitution (SNAr)—or vice versa—delivering single-isomer products in high yield. The nitro group at C3 acts as a directing group for regioselective C–H activation. A validated scale-up protocol from 2-amino-5-bromo-3-nitropyridine achieves 84% yield with ≥98% (GC) purity. The compound is stable at room temperature when stored in a cool, dark place (<15°C recommended).

Core Application Fields and Demand

Market demand for 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine (CAS# 67443-38-3) is concentrated in three primary sectors: pharmaceutical R&D and antitumor drug discovery (approximately 50–55% of global consumption), agrochemical development (approximately 20–25%), and OLED materials and specialty chemicals (approximately 20–25%). Its orthogonal reactivity and differentiated halogen substitution serve as the core drivers of sustained demand growth.

In pharmaceutical R&D and antitumor drug discovery, 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine is a documented precursor for XRD-0394, a first-in-class dual inhibitor of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) being developed for antitumor therapy in combination with radiation therapy. The compound has been specifically cited for the preparation of pyrroloquinolines and related compounds as dual ATM and DNA-PK inhibitors for antitumor therapy. Beyond this specific application, it serves as a crucial building block in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals, particularly in developing antifungal and antibacterial agents. The compound is a vital ingredient in the manufacture of drugs used to treat various diseases such as cancer, bacterial infections, and neurological disorders. The presence of the nitro group allows for reduction to amines, which are critical functional groups in many drugs. The compound’s ability to undergo sequential, orthogonal functionalization without protecting group chemistry makes it invaluable for constructing complex drug-like molecules with high synthetic efficiency.

In agrochemical development, 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine plays a significant role in the formulation of agrochemicals, serving as a precursor for designing novel insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides aimed at improving crop yields. Its versatile functional groups—bromine, chlorine, and nitro—provide a platform for introducing diverse substituents into agrochemical active ingredients. The compound is used in the production of agrochemicals such as herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides.

In OLED technology and materials science, 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine is widely used in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) as a high-efficiency light-emitting material or charge transport material in the emission and functional layers, significantly improving device brightness, color purity, and lifetime. Its primary applications enable high-efficiency, low-power flexible displays and lighting technologies, driving the development of next-generation display panels and smart terminals. The compound’s conjugated system and molecular energy level structure are well-suited for hole or electron injection layers, exhibiting good thermal and photochemical stability. The compound also plays a role in creating advanced materials such as polymers and coatings with improved durability and resistance.

In organic synthesis and research, 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine serves as a biochemical reagent and organic/chemical reagent for biomedical research. It is widely utilized as a building block and intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly for the development of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. The compound also finds applications in dye manufacturing. It is also used as a versatile platform for the introduction of bromine, chlorine, and nitro moieties into different molecules.

Major Market Participants

The global supply system for 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine (CAS# 67443-38-3) features a pattern of “specialized research chemical suppliers, multinational chemical distributors, and Chinese manufacturers serving distinct market segments.” As a specialized heterocyclic building block rather than a bulk commodity, the market is characterized by a moderate number of suppliers catering to pharmaceutical R&D, agrochemical development, and materials science applications.

In the global research and high-purity segment, key international suppliers include Thermo Fisher Scientific (Alfa Aesar/Acros Organics), offering the compound at ≥98% purity; TCI Chemicals, providing >98.0% (GC) purity; AKSci, offering 95% purity; BenchChem, offering ≥98% (GC) purity with multi-kilogram supply availability; and InvivoChem, supplying research-grade material. These suppliers serve the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and academic research communities with products that meet rigorous quality specifications.

In the industrial and large-scale production segment, Chinese manufacturers have emerged as dominant players in the global supply chain. XinChem is a reliable manufacturer and supplier of high-purity 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine from China. Numerous chemical companies in China operate production facilities for this compound, leveraging cost advantages and established supply chains to serve both domestic and international markets. Suppliers are concentrated in major chemical manufacturing regions including Shanghai, Hubei, Shaanxi, Zhejiang, and Inner Mongolia. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at 98% purity in packaging sizes ranging from grams to kilograms. Multi-kilogram and custom synthesis capabilities are available.

Regional Market Dynamics

The global 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine market exhibits distinct regional characteristics, with production concentrated in Asia-Pacific (particularly China) and consumption distributed across North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region, aligned with the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and materials science industries in these regions. The market for this compound is driven by the continued growth of targeted cancer therapies, particularly ATM/DNA-PK inhibitors, as well as the expansion of OLED display technologies.

The Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a significant production hub for 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine, with China hosting numerous manufacturers and suppliers including XinChem. The region’s competitive advantages include lower production costs, established chemical infrastructure, and proximity to rapidly growing pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and electronics industries. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at various purity grades (typically 95–98%) and packaging options, serving both domestic and export markets. The growing pharmaceutical R&D, agrochemical, and OLED sectors in China, Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia continue to drive regional consumption growth.

North America remains a key market for high-purity and research-grade 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine, driven by demand from the pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology companies, and academic research institutions. The United States hosts numerous research organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and contract research organizations that require high-quality heterocyclic building blocks for drug discovery and development. The region’s well-established regulatory framework and emphasis on product quality support demand for high-grade research chemicals and pharmaceutical intermediates.

Europe is characterized by stringent regulatory requirements and a strong focus on quality and sustainability in pharmaceutical and chemical research. European pharmaceutical companies, agrochemical developers, and research institutions demand high-purity heterocyclic building blocks with comprehensive documentation.

Japan represents a specialized market where 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine is applied in advanced OLED and display technologies, in addition to pharmaceutical research.

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

As a research chemical, pharmaceutical intermediate, and agrochemical building block, 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine (CAS# 67443-38-3) is subject to regulatory oversight in major global economies. Compliance with relevant regulations is essential for market access and trade.

In the United States, 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine is intended for research and development use only and is not intended for therapeutic, food, cosmetic, or consumer applications unless explicitly stated otherwise. The compound is not a controlled substance.

In the European Union, the compound must comply with REACH registration requirements for import and use. Manufacturers and suppliers must provide comprehensive Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and maintain appropriate documentation.

GHS classification and handling: 5-Bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine is classified with the signal word ”Warning”. Hazard statements include H302 (Harmful if swallowed), H315 (Causes skin irritation), and H319 (Causes serious eye irritation). Precautionary statements include P280 (Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection), P305+P351+P338 (IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present and easy to do; continue rinsing), and P301+P312+P330 (IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell; rinse mouth). The compound should be stored in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture. The WGK Germany classification is 3 (high hazard to water). The compound is classified as Acute Tox. 3 Oral and Skin Irrit. 2.

For international transport, 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine is classified under UN 2811 (Toxic solids, organic, n.o.s.), Hazard Class 6.1, Packing Group III. Proper packaging, labeling, and documentation are required for international shipping in compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code) and other transport regulations.

Future Outlook

The market outlook for 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine is positive, supported by several key growth drivers across its major application segments. While the compound remains a relatively specialized heterocyclic building block, its unique orthogonal reactivity and versatility position it for steady growth in the coming years.

Key growth drivers include:

1. Expansion of targeted cancer therapy R&D: The development of dual ATM/DNA-PK inhibitors such as XRD-0394 and related antitumor agents drives demand for this key precursor.
2. Growth in pharmaceutical R&D: Increasing investment in drug discovery and development, particularly in oncology, anti-inflammatory, and anti-infective therapeutics, supports demand for versatile heterocyclic building blocks.
3. Expansion of agrochemical development: The growing global demand for novel insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides drives consumption of the compound as a precursor for crop protection agents.
4. Growth in OLED and display technologies: The expanding market for high-efficiency, low-power flexible displays and lighting technologies creates new opportunities for the compound in materials science.
5. Increasing focus on orthogonal synthesis: The compound’s ability to enable sequential functionalization without protecting groups makes it increasingly valuable in modern synthetic chemistry.

Challenges and considerations:

• Regulatory compliance: Increasingly stringent pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and chemical regulations may require ongoing investment in quality systems and documentation.
• Hazardous material handling: The compound’s classification as UN 2811 (Toxic solids) requires specialized handling, packaging, and shipping procedures that may increase costs.
• Competition from alternative building blocks: The market faces competition from other halogenated pyridines and heterocyclic building blocks with similar reactivity profiles.
• Limited scale: As a relatively specialized compound, the market for 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine is smaller than that of commodity chemicals.

To succeed in this evolving market landscape, suppliers must focus on product quality (particularly purity and batch-to-batch consistency), supply chain reliability, regulatory compliance, and responsive customer service. Companies that can offer high-purity products, flexible packaging options, and technical support for pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and materials science applications will be well-positioned to capture growing demand.

Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem)

As a world-leading supplier of organic chemicals and heterocyclic building blocks, Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem) is dedicated to meeting the innovative needs of the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, materials science, and fine chemical industries. Leveraging extensive experience and advanced manufacturing capabilities, XinChem provides high-quality 5-Bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine (CAS# 67443-38-3) to customers worldwide. As a trusted manufacturer and supplier based in China, XinChem combines competitive pricing, reliable supply, and exceptional service to establish itself as a preferred partner for research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and industrial manufacturers seeking this versatile multifunctional pyridine building block.

1. Technical Advantages

Advanced Synthesis and Purification Processes
XinChem utilizes state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and rigorous quality control measures to ensure the purity, consistency, and safety of its 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine products. The production process incorporates established synthetic routes—including the synthesis from 5-bromopyridin-2(1H)-one via nitration and chlorination with phosphorus oxychloride—enabling the delivery of products with purity ≥98% (GC) to meet diverse application requirements. Strict process control ensures consistent product quality, minimal impurities, and batch-to-batch reproducibility, providing customers with reliable performance in pharmaceutical synthesis, agrochemical development, and materials science applications.

Full-Chain Quality Control
The production process strictly adheres to international quality standards, with comprehensive quality control covering raw material sourcing, in-process monitoring, and finished product testing. Each batch is accompanied by a detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting physical and chemical properties, purity data (GC/HPLC), melting point, and impurity profiles. This commitment to quality ensures that XinChem’s 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine meets the stringent requirements of pharmaceutical R&D, agrochemical development, and research applications.

2. Product Advantages

High Purity and Consistent Quality
XinChem offers 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine with purity ≥98% (GC/HPLC), ensuring optimal performance in pharmaceutical synthesis, agrochemical development, and materials science applications. The product’s high purity minimizes the risk of unwanted side reactions and impurities, making it suitable for demanding applications in drug discovery, crop protection, and advanced materials.

Comprehensive Specifications
Key specifications include:

• Molecular Formula: C₅H₂BrClN₂O₂
• Molecular Weight: 237.44 g/mol
• CAS Number: 67443-38-3
• Synonyms: 2-Chloro-3-nitro-5-bromopyridine; 5-bromo-2-chloro-3-nitro-pyridine
• MDL Number: MFCD00222270
• Appearance: Light orange to yellow to green powder to crystal
• Purity: ≥98% (GC/HPLC)
• Melting Point: 64–70°C
• Storage: Room temperature, cool and dark place, <15°C

Flexible Packaging Solutions
XinChem provides a range of packaging options to accommodate diverse customer needs, from laboratory-scale quantities (grams) to industrial-scale packaging (kilograms) and bulk shipments. Customized packaging solutions are available upon request, ensuring safe handling, storage, and transportation with appropriate hazardous material classification (UN 2811, Class 6.1, PG III).

3. Application Fields

As a versatile multifunctional pyridine building block, 5-Bromo-2-chloro-3-nitropyridine (CAS# 67443-38-3) exhibits wide application value across multiple industries:

Pharmaceutical R&D and Drug Discovery:

• Key precursor for dual ATM/DNA-PK inhibitors (XRD-0394 series) for antitumor therapy
• Building block for antifungal and antibacterial agents
• Intermediate for cancer therapeutics, including treatments for bacterial infections and neurological disorders
• Scaffold for constructing complex drug-like molecules via orthogonal functionalization
• Nitro group reduction to amines for critical drug functional groups

Agrochemical Development:

• Precursor for designing novel insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides
• Building block for agrochemical active ingredients

OLED Technology and Materials Science:

• High-efficiency light-emitting material in OLED emission and functional layers
• Charge transport material for hole or electron injection layers
• Component in advanced polymers and coatings
• Enabler for high-efficiency, low-power flexible displays and lighting

Organic Synthesis and Research:

• Versatile building block for organic synthesis
• Biochemical reagent for biomedical research
• Platform for introducing bromine, chlorine, and nitro moieties into various molecules
• Dye manufacturing

4. Service Support

Technical Expertise and Customized Solutions
XinChem’s team of experienced chemists and application engineers provides full technical support throughout the customer journey—from product selection and specification development to application guidance and troubleshooting. Whether customers require optimization of cross-coupling reaction conditions, guidance on orthogonal functionalization strategies, or assistance with regulatory documentation, XinChem’s technical experts are ready to help. Custom synthesis and multi-kilogram supply are available upon request.

Global Logistics and Reliable Supply
With established supply chains serving markets across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and beyond, XinChem ensures timely delivery and consistent product availability. The company’s logistics team manages all aspects of international shipping, including compliance with dangerous goods transport regulations (UN 2811, Class 6.1, PG III), customs clearance, and documentation.

Regulatory Support
XinChem provides comprehensive documentation to support regulatory compliance, including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Certificates of Analysis (COA), and other required certificates. The company stays current with evolving regulatory requirements in major markets, including REACH, TSCA, and other regional regulations, helping customers navigate the complexities of global trade.

5. Reasons to Choose XinChem

• Professionalism: Extensive experience and deep expertise in heterocyclic building block synthesis and supply.
• Quality: Rigorous quality control, high purity (≥98%), and adherence to international standards.
• Reliability: Stable supply, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
• Flexibility: Customized solutions to meet diverse customer needs, including custom synthesis and packaging.
• Service: Responsive technical support and comprehensive documentation.

Contact us today to start your partnership with XinChem!

Website: www.xinchem.com

Email: sales1@xinchem.com

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