Benzimidazole: Structure Activity Relationship and Mechanism of Action as Antimicrobial Agent

Benzimidazole is nitrogen containing heterocyclic organic compound. It is a bicyclic compound with fused benzene and imidazole nucleus. Various research groups revealed that benzimidazole is an important lead molecule for the development of anthelmintic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiprotozoal, antimycobacterial and antiviral agents. So, in present review, various biologically important derivatives of benzimidazole have been compiled. On the basis of their biological activity data and substitution pattern around the benzimidazole nucleus, structure activity relationship (SAR) has been analysed. An outline of mechanism of action of benzimidazole derivatives against various biological targets is also presented. Hence, present review can help the researchers in development of new benzimidazole derivative with significant biological activity.