Synthetic Routes and Biological Activities of Benzofuran and its Derivatives: A Review

Background: Even though several review articles have been written outlining the various methods of synthesis and biological activities of benzofurans, there has been no report of a review which covers the period ranging from 2005-2017. The present review aims to throw some light on the latest research in the field of synthesis of this famous moiety and highlight its biological activities. Methods: We have carried out the literature survey of the articles published on this nucleus during the last decade and studied them precisely in order to identify the most efficient developments that have occurred in its methods of synthesis and biological activities. All the screened papers were arranged on the basis of the protocol involved in the synthesis. Results: Almost a hundred papers have been reviewed for writing this article. More than fifty percent illustrate the varied approaches that have been employed towards the synthesis of benzofuran and its derivatives. Due to the growing awareness towards sustainable development, methodologies based on green chemistry that involve the use of green solvents, nanoparticles etc. have also been developed and are highlighted in this review. This medicinally advantageous scaffold possesses diverse pharmaceutical activities like anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-tumor, anti-HIV, anti-platelet, analgesic etc. We have herein tried to focus on some of the most relevant biomedical applications of this nucleus. Conclusion: Looking at a single decade of active research on benzofuran nucleus it can be concluded that several exciting developments have been made with respect to its synthesis which includes the emergence of use of nanoparticles, microwave and green solvents. Intensive progress has been seen in the biomedical applications of its derivatives as described in this review. This moiety forms the platform that can be engineered with varying structural configurations and numerous multifunctionalities for the synthesis of several new lead compounds which can pave the way for hither to unprecedented applications in pharmaceutics.