[Occurrence and use of anthracenones]

Area of Science:

• Natural Products Chemistry
• Organic Synthesis
• Pharmacology

Context:

• Anthracenons are a class of natural compounds with a long history of study, first documented in 1888.
• Understanding natural producers is crucial for sustainable sourcing and discovery of novel analogs.
• The pharmaceutical industry seeks new therapeutic agents from natural sources.

Purpose:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of anthracenons for the pharmaceutical community.
• To detail the known natural sources and biosynthetic pathways of anthracenons.
• To elucidate the synthetic strategies and clinical utility of anthracenons.

Summary:

• This review covers the historical background, natural origins, chemical synthesis, and therapeutic applications of anthracenons.
• It highlights key anthracenon compounds, their isolation from natural sources, and methods for their laboratory synthesis.
• The paper also examines the established and emerging clinical uses of anthracenons in pharmaceutical practice.

Impact:

• Enhances understanding of anthracenons for researchers and drug developers.
• Facilitates the identification of new anthracenon-based drug candidates.
• Supports the advancement of anthracenon-derived therapeutics in clinical settings.