Nitrochalcones: Pharmacological Activities and Therapeutic Potential
Erika Madeleyne Ramos-Rivera1, Nancy Romero-Ceronio1, Oswaldo Hernández-Abreu1
1División Académica de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Carretera Cunduacán-Jalpa Km 1, Colonia La Esperanza, Cunduacán 86690, Tabasco, Mexico.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|March 28, 2026
Summary
Nitrochalcones, a class of compounds, exhibit diverse biological activities and therapeutic potential. Their multitarget actions impact oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell signaling, showing promise in various diseases.
Area of Science:
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Pharmacology
- Organic Chemistry
Background:
- Chalcones are α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds known for their simple structure and biological activities.
- Nitrochalcones, a subclass, possess unique electronic and pharmacological properties due to the nitro group (-NO2).
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically analyze the biological activities and mechanisms of action of nitrochalcones.
- To review structure-activity relationships and therapeutic potential of nitrochalcone derivatives.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific studies on nitrochalcones.
- Analysis of biological data and proposed mechanisms of action.
Main Results:
- Nitrochalcones act as multitarget agents, influencing oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, inflammation, and cell signaling (proliferation, apoptosis).
- Reported activities include anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, antifungal, and cardiovascular effects.
- Demonstrated selectivity towards pathological cells over healthy cells in several studies.
Conclusions:
- Nitrochalcones represent a promising class of compounds with broad therapeutic potential.
- Further research into their multitarget mechanisms can lead to novel drug development.
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