Electrochemical reduction of arylethenylpyridinium salts: relation to structure and anthelmintic activity

Cyclic voltammetry data were obtained for a series of 1(1-)- and 1(2-arylethenyl)pyridinium salts. The 1(1-arylvinyl) salts exhibited more negative reduction potentials than their N-beta-styryl counterparts. Rationalizations of the reduction values are provided. Differences in reduction potentials within a series are discussed utilizing substituent constant effects. Correlations exist for the electrochemical data and anthelmintic activity.