What are the origins and physiological activities of pyrrole-2-carboxaldehydes (Py-2-C)?

Pyrrole-2-carboxaldehydes (Py-2-C) derivatives have been isolated from various natural sources, including fungi, plants (roots, leaves, and seeds), and microorganisms. These compounds are significant due to their potential biological functions and their presence in advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which are implicated in various diseases, including diabetes. The study explores the synthesis, biosynthesis, natural sources, and physiological activities of Py-2-C derivatives.

From: "Pyrrole-2-carboxaldehydes: Origins and Physiological Activities", Molecules 2023, 28(6), 2599;

Py-2-C derivatives originate from multiple sources and exhibit a range of physiological activities. They can be chemically synthesized from glucose and amino acid derivatives under acidic conditions. Naturally, they are found in fungi, plants, and microorganisms. The physiological activities of Py-2-C derivatives include antioxidant effects, cytotoxicity against cancer cells, neuroprotective effects, and inhibition of various enzymes. For example, compounds like pyrrolezanthine and cordyrrole A have shown significant biological activities, including hepatoprotection and adipocyte differentiation inhibition. The study highlights the potential of Py-2-C derivatives for pharmaceutical applications, particularly as biomarkers and therapeutic agents.