Medicinal applications of (benz)imidazole- and indole-based macrocycles

Macrocyclic chemistry is one of the emerging research areas in the chemical science. Macrocyclic compounds continue to attract significant attention due to their numerous possible applications particularly in the areas like biology, catalysis and industry. This review article summarizes the developments and advances in synthesis and medicinal applications of macrocyclic compounds derived from (benz)imidazole- and indole-based heterocycles. Important medicinal applications of (benz)imidazole- and indole-based macrocycles include antimicrobial and anticancer activities. The representative lead compounds in each series of macromolecules have been discussed. All these initial lead breakthroughs help validate the great potential of (benz)imidazole- and indole-based macrocyclic compounds as a class of effective medicinal agents.