Synthesis of some phosphonates with antiherpetic activity.

Several keto phosphonates, phosphonoacetates , and dialkyl phosphonates containing (aryloxy)aryl groups were synthesized and evaluated for antiherpteic activity. Two of the most active compounds, 12 and 16, were evaluated topically in the mouse vaginal model against herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 2. Compound 16 exhibited an increased survival rate, as well as increased survival time. Evaluation of 16 in the guinea pig skin test against HSV-2 produced a reduction in virus titer, as well as in mean vesicle score.