The molecule consists of a pyridine ring with a nitrile group attached to the 3-position.

A colorless solid, it is produced by ammoxidation of 3-methylpyridine:[2] Nicotinonitrile is a precursor to the vitamin niacin.

[3] Nitrilase-catalyzed hydrolysis of 3-cyanopyridine by means of immobilized Rhodococcus rhodochrous J1[2] strains leads in quantitative yield to nicotinamide (vitamin B3).

[4][5][6] The enzyme allows for a more selective synthesis as further hydrolysis of the amide to nicotinic acid is avoided.

[7] Oxidation of 3-cyanopyridine with hydrogen peroxide gives 3-cyanopyridine N-oxide, which hydrolyzes to nicotinic acid N-oxide, a precursor to pharmaceuticals.