The synthesis of original imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines bearing a thioether side chain at the 3 position and their antiviral activity are reported. From the synthesized compounds, 4, 15, and 21 were highly active against human cytomegalovirus with a therapeutic index superior to 150. These compounds also showed pronounced activity against varicella-zoster virus. Their structure−activity relationship is discussed.

The synthesis and the antiviral activities of C-3 acyclic nucleoside analogues of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine and pyrimidine are reported. From these compounds, 20, 21, 22, 23, 28, and 34 showed a specific activity against cytomegalovirus and/or varicella-zoster virus.