Synthesis and antiviral activity of 1-hydroxy-2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)imidazoles against vaccinia virus

2-(2-Hydroxyplienyl)imidazole derivatives were synthesized and tested for antiviral activity against vaccinia virus in Vero cell culture. 1-Methylimidazole 3-oxides, 1-methoxyimidazoles, and 1 H -imidazoles showed no activity, whereas some 1-hydroxyimidazole derivatives hold promise, exhibiting antiviral activity and weak cytotoxicity.