The syntheses of nonnucleoside, HIV-1 reverse transcriptase inhibitors containing a CF2 group: The SRN1 reactions of 2-(bromodifluoromethyl)benzoxazole with the anions derived from heterocyclic thiols and phenolic compounds

In an effort to prepare new fluorine-containing compounds which are active against HIV, the SRN1 reactions of 2-(bromodifluoromethyl)benzoxazole (5) with the anions of heterocyclic thiols and phenolic compounds were carried out. The products (6a–j and 7a–f), which all have a CF2 group, were tested for activity against HIV, and several were found to be active, including 6f which was very active. By comparing the activity of 6e, which contains a CF2 group, to that of 10, where the CF2 is replaced by a CH2 group, it was demonstrated that fluorine atom substitution produces a 10-fold increase in activity against HIV-1.