Strecker Synthesis: Aldehydes → Amino Acids (Imine + Cyanide Addition + Hydrolysis)

Learn the Strecker synthesis: imine formation, CN− addition to give an aminonitrile, then hydrolysis to an amino acid. Great MCAT bridge page.

• Reaction: Aldehyde → α-amino acid
• What it does: Builds amino acids from simple carbonyls
• Typical reagents: NH3 (or amine), HCN (or NaCN + acid), then hydrolysis
• Key intermediate: Imine / iminium, aminonitrile
• Driving force: Hydrolysis converts nitrile → carboxylic acid
• Exam type: Synthesis planning
• Exam type: Mechanism steps