Recent Advances in Antiviral Benzimidazole Derivatives: A Mini Review

Benzimidazole ring system is well known for its potential for various biological activities. Recent research works have indicated the excellent antiviral potential of various derivatives of this heterocycle. Depending upon the nature of substitution and side chain functionalities, benzimidazole derivatives exhibit anti-HCV, anti-HBV, anti-HIV, anti-HSV, anti-Coxsackie virus, anti-rotavirus, anti-mosquito larvae, anti-PRSV, anti-adenovirus, anti-tobacco mosaic, and anti-Sunn-hemp rosette viruses, etc. In this article, the recent literature available on antiviral benzimidazole derivatives is summarized. The article could be useful in designing new antiviral agents based on this ring system.