Synthesis of benzimidazoles bearing oxadiazole nucleus as anticancer agents

► 25 Novel benzimidazoles bearing oxadiazole nucleus were synthesized under microwave irradiation. ► Initial screening of compounds showed significant to good in vitro anticancer activity. ► One compound, 1b-A18, emerged as lead compound and screened at five dose level. ► The compound 1b-A18 can be used as a template for designing potential anticancer agents.