FUROXAN DERIVATIVES AS NITRIC OXIDE DONORS AND THEIR THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL

Abstract

Nitric oxide synthesized in endothelial cells that line blood vessels, was first described in 1980 as an endothelium derived vascular relaxing factor. It is an important signalling molecule in various pathological and physiological processes. Dysfunction of NO formation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of disorders. Exogenous NO sources constitute a powerful way to supplement NO when the body cannot generate enough for normal biological functions. Furoxan, 1,2,5-oxadiazole 2-oxide, has been a very important scaffold in Medicinal Chemistry as nitric oxide (NO) donor. This article explores some of the most promising recent advances in NO donor drug development. Major focus is placed on recently developed Furoxan derivatives as NO donors and their pharmacological actions.