Synthesis and biological evaluation of benzo[d]imidazole derivatives as potential anti-cancer agents.

We herein report the synthesis, biological activity and structure-activity relationship of derivatives of 5,6-dichloro-1-β-D-ribofuranosylbenzimidazole and benzo[d]imidazole. A lead compound 6o demonstrates potent anti-proliferative activity and the ability to induce cancer cell apoptosis.