ABSTRACT An efficient Strecker-type reaction of nitrones with trimethylsilyl cyanide (TMSCN) catalyzed by MgI2 etherate has been achieved in a short time under mild condition. The condensations of aromatic nitrones, heterocyclic nitrones, and aliphatic nitrones with TMSCN are performed in good to excellent yields. Further dehydration of α-cyanohydroxylamine smoothly produced the α-imine nitrile in