Benzyloxazolidine-2,4-diones as potent hypoglycemic agents.

A series of benzyloxazolidine-2,4-diones, containing oxazole-based side chains, were found to lower blood glucose levels in the genetically obese ob/ob mouse. Incorporation of a benzofuran structural element in these compounds provides greatly enhanced in vivo potency. The syntheses and structure-activity relationships for this series are detailed.