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Updated: Aug 9, 2025

Functionalized Spirocyclic Heterocycle Synthesis and Cytotoxicity Assay
Published on: February 9, 2021
Synthetic benzofuran-linked chalcones with dual actions: a potential therapeutic approach to manage diabetes mellitus
Irfan Ali1, Rafaila Rafique1, Khalid Mohammed Khan1,2
1HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, International Centre for Chemical & Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan.
Abstract:
Background: Identification of molecules having dual capabilities to reduce postprandial hyperglycemia and oxidative stress is one of the therapeutic approaches to treat diabetes mellitus. In this connection, a library of benzofuran-linked chalcone derivatives were evaluated for their dual action. Methods: A series of substituted benzofuran-linked chalcones (2-33) were synthesized and tested for α-amylase inhibitory as well as 2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging activities. Results: All compounds showed α-amylase inhibitory activity ranging from IC50 = 12.81 ± 0.03 to 87.17 ± 0.15 μM, compared with the standard acarbose (IC50 = 13.98 ± 0.03 μM). Compounds also demonstrated radical scavenging potential against DPPH and ABTS radicals. Conclusion: The identified compounds may serve as potential leads for further advanced research.
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