Synthesis of 2-oxo and 6-hydroxylated benzimidazole analogs of DOPA as potential norepinephrine antagonists

The synthesis of benzimidazolone analogs of DOPA and α-methyl-DOPA and of the benzimidazole and benzimidazolone analogs of 6-hydroxy-DOPA is reported. These compounds showed a moderate amount of dopamine β-hydroxylase and tyrosine hydroxylase inhibitory activity but did not significantly alter tissue catacholamine levels.