New series of 2,4,6-triarylpyridines derivatives 5a–f and 6a–d were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their cytotoxic activity against breast cancer cell lines. Three-component reaction between acetophenones, ammonium acetate and 4-methyl or 2-methylpyridine in the presence of iodine in DMSO lead to title 2,4,6-triarylpyridines. This method allows the simple preparation of the desired products