An Introduction to the Synthesis of Biologically Active Chalcones

Abstract

Aldehydes and ketones are used in the aldol condensation reaction to develop carbon-carbon bonds, which effectively synthesises new compounds. The synthesis of chalcone derivatives is increasingly using this process. These derivatives are vital to natural product and drug production. This study highlights the importance and recent advances in aldol condensation-mediated chalcone derivative synthesis. An enolate ion from one of these substances’ nucleophilically attacks an aldehyde or ketone's carbonyl group. If the aldol product undergoes further dehydration, it produces an unsaturated chalcone. Lewis’s acids and bases such as amines, hydroxides, and alkoxides can catalyse the process. Aldol condensation-mediated chalcone derivative synthesis has improved with efficient, selective catalysts, substrate diversity, and reaction condition optimization. Additionally, novel reaction media improve reaction efficiency and environmental sustainability. These include ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents. The aldol condensation reaction is versatile, making it straightforward to add functional groups and modify chalcone derivative structures. Because of these changes, it is now easier to synthesise various derivatives from chalcones that have better bioactivity and pharmacology. This chapter discusses different methods for the synthesis of chalcone derivatives.