NCFU chemists have discovered a new, earlier unknown transformation of halcons, thus obtaining some substances of unique structure. These, in turn, may prove effective when treating cancer and certain neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

– This transformation just came by itself, – Nikolai Aksenov (Professor, Department of Organic and Analytical Chemistry, NCFU) was quoted as saying. - We meant to synthesize substances with anti-cancer and antimalarial activity and for the first time tried to use halcones as a reagent. We tried to develop a molecule with them, yet got a completely new substance. When we realized what kind of substance it was and how we got it, we were really delighted, and went on experimenting.

– This is a substance that nobody has ever held it in their hands, – Prof. Aksenov explained. – Structurally they are close to isotryptamins, which, as many researchers believe, can have a positive impact on the brain. Given our new compounds, we have obtained another class of substances (Gama-carbolins), which, as our foreign colleagues claim, might help defeat serious issues like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

The low price and the availability of the initial reagent, as well as the minimum number of synthesis stages allow producing the substance in question with no mush expenditure, thus making the final product even more attractive for both researchers and pharmacists.

To learn more about the research, please follow the link.