Heteroaryl-linked 5-(1H-benzimidazol-1-yl)-2-thiophenecarboxamides: Potent inhibitors of polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) with improved drug-like properties

Potent inhibitors of PLK1 with acceptable solubility, mouse iv clearance, and reduced CYP450 inhibition were identified. Drug-like properties were improved using a heteroaryl ring as a functional handle for manipulation of inhibitors’ physiochemical and DMPK properties.