Highlights on the Synthesis and Biological Activity of 1,3-Selenazoles

Organoselenium compounds have attracted special attention over the last years mainly because of their diversified biological activity. In particular, 1,3-selenazoles are interesting five-membered heterocycles that are being reported for their potential pharmacological profile. Efforts have been made in search or novel derivatives with improved biological activity, which include novel synthetic strategies. Owing to the importance of this system, the aim of this review is to provide an update on the synthesis and biological activity of 1,3-selenazole derivatives covering the main articles published between 2004 and 2014. This review is divided into two main sections: (i) a discussion of novel synthetic procedures for the preparation of 1,3- selenazoles and (ii) a report of recent findings regarding the biological activity of 1,3-selenazoles. Keywords: 1, 3-selenazoles, biological activity, drugs, selenium, synthesis.