Synthesis and evaluation of benzoxazole derivatives as 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors

5-Lipoxygenase (5-LOX) is important enzyme in the biosynthesis of leukotrienes, and is a potential target in the treatment of asthma and allergy. We designed and synthesized a series of benzoxazoles and benzothiazoles as 5-LOX inhibitors. Fourteen compounds prepared showed the inhibition of LTC4 formation with IC50 value of 0.12-23.88 mu M. Also two compounds 2d and 2g showed improved airway hypersensitiveness. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.