Microwave-assisted trans-halogenation reactions of various chloro-, bromo-, trifluoromethanesulfonyloxy- and nonafluorobutanesulfonyloxy-substituted quinolines, isoquinolines, and pyridines leading to the corresponding iodinated heterocycles.

Microwave irradiation of certain chloro-, bromo-, trifluoromethanesulfonyloxy- and nonafluorobutanesulfonyloxy-substituted quinolines in the presence of acetic anhydride and sodium iodide leads, via a trans-halogenation process, to the corresponding iodides in high yield. Related conversions involving pyridines and isoquinolines can also be achieved under similar conditions.