Isocyanides are organic compounds characterized by the functional group -N≡C, where a carbon atom is triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom. They are known for their distinctive and often unpleasant odors. Isocyanides are used in organic synthesis, particularly in the formation of amino acids and peptides, due to their ability to react with various nucleophiles. These compounds can be synthesized through several methods, including the reaction of alkyl halides with silver cyanide. Isocyanides are also important in the Ugi reaction, a multi-component reaction that produces diverse chemical structures. Their unique properties make them valuable in both research and industrial applications.