Isatin (1 H-indole-2, 3-Dione) and its derivatives are versatile compounds which acts as a precursor for a large number of pharmacologically active compounds. Therefore isatins have a significant importance in the synthesis of different heterocyclic compounds. Isatins show variety of biological activities. In this review we focus on synthetic methods of isatins and their biological activities such as antimicrobial, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity, antitubercular activity.