1-[(Aryloxy)alkyl]-1H-imidazoles as Inhibitors of Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase

A series of 1-[(aryloxy)alkyl]-1 H-imidazoles were synthesized from imidazole and various (aryloxy)alkyl bromides and tested for inhibitory activity against the three isoforms of nitric oxide synthase. 1-[2-(4-Bromophenoxy)ethyl]-1 H-imidazole and 1-[2-[4-(trifluoromethyl)phenoxy] ethyl]-1 H-imidazole showed inhibitory activity against the neuronal isoform but were less potent against the endothelial isoform. Thus they could be considered interesting for their selectivity. The remaining compounds had only modest activity.