Baishouwubenzophenone

Baishouwubenzophenone has the molecular formula C₁₆H₁₄O₆. Structurally, it consists of two aromatic rings connected by a central carbonyl group, characteristic of the benzophenone framework.^[1] The molecule contains multiple hydroxyl groups, which contribute to its positive reaction with ferric chloride (FeCl₃), indicative of phenolic functionality.^[2]

Baishouwubenzophenone is an example of a non-biaryl atropisomer.^[1] The presence of bulky substituents ortho to the carbonyl bridge on both aromatic rings results in restricted rotation around the Ar–CO–Ar axis, giving rise to stable atropisomers. Both (R)- and (S)-enantiomers have been observed.^[1] The absolute configuration and chiroptical properties of the compound have been elucidated using techniques such as experimental electronic circular dichroism (ECD) and time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) calculations.^[1]

Baishouwubenzophenone is thought to contribute to the pharmacological properties of Cynanchum species, which have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for their tonic agents and exhibit various pharmacological activities like anti-tumor, antioxidant, gastroprotective, anti-aging, and immune regulatory effects.^[2] In addition to its role in natural product chemistry, baishouwubenzophenone has been investigated as a potential atropisomeric ligand for use in asymmetric catalysis.^[1] Its rigid chiral scaffold and multiple coordination sites make it a candidate for applications in enantioselective synthesis.^[1]