Two step synthesis of a non-symmetric acetylcholinesterase reactivator

The newly developed and very promising acetylcholinesterase reactivator (E)-1-(2-hydroxyiminomethylpyridinium)-4-(4-hydroxyiminomethylpyridinium)-but-2-ene dibromide was prepared using two different pathways via a two-step synthesis involving the appropriate (E)-1-(4-bromobut-2-enyl)-2- or 4-hydroxyiminomethyl-pyridinium bromides. Afterwards, purities and yields of the desired product prepared by both routes were compared. Finally, its potency to reactivate several nerve agent-inhibited acetylcholinesterases was tested.