Chromones (also called 1,4-benzopyrone derivatives) are a large class of naturally occurring and synthetic compounds built on a benzopyran-4-one backbone. They are widely distributed in plants, fungi, and some marine organisms.
Key Features of Chromones
- Core structure: Benzopyran-4-one (a benzene ring fused with a pyran and a ketone at position 4).
- Family: Related to flavonoids and coumarins.
- Substitution: Hydroxyl, methoxy, and glycosyl groups lead to diverse derivatives.
Examples
- Cromolyn sodium – synthetic chromone used as an anti-asthmatic drug.
- Khellin – from Ammi visnaga, used in cardiovascular therapy.
- Flavones (a subclass of chromones) – apigenin, luteolin.
- Coumarins (structurally related) – anticoagulant activity.
Biological Roles in Plants
- Defense against UV radiation.
- Antifungal and antibacterial activity.
- Pigmentation and signaling.
Pharmacological & Industrial Applications
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Anticancer
- Antimicrobial
- Antiasthmatic (mast cell stabilizers like cromolyn)
- Used in drug design for cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurological disorders.