Natural Sources and Bioactivities of 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol and Its Analogs

Summary

This research reviews 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol (2,4-DTBP), a naturally occurring compound found in many organisms including bacteria, fungi, and plants. The compound shows diverse biological activities that could have important applications in medicine and agriculture. Impact on everyday life: – Could lead to development of new natural preservatives for food and feed products – May help create new environmentally friendly pesticides and herbicides – Has potential applications in developing new antimicrobial treatments – Could contribute to new antioxidant supplements and therapies – May help understand how plants and organisms naturally defend themselves

Background

2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol or 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-phenol (2,4-DTBP) is a common toxic secondary metabolite produced by various groups of organisms. While the biosources and bioactivities of 2,4-DTBP have been well investigated, the compound has not been systematically reviewed and questions remain about why organisms produce this autotoxic compound.

Objective

To provide a comprehensive review of 2,4-DTBP and its analogs with emphasis on natural sources and bioactivities, and to better understand the physiological and evolutionary roles of 2,4-DTBP in producing organisms.

Results

2,4-DTBP was found in at least 169 species across bacteria (16 species, 10 families), fungi (11 species, 8 families), diatom (1 species), liverwort (1 species), pteridiphyta (2 species), gymnosperms (4 species), dicots (107 species), monocots (22 species), and animals (5 species). The compound exhibits broad toxicity against almost all tested organisms, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, insecticidal, nematicidal, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and phytotoxic activities.

Conclusion

The accumulating evidence indicates that endocidal regulation appears to be the primary function of 2,4-DTBP and its analogs in producing organisms. The compound commonly occurs in diverse organisms and shows potent toxicity against almost all testing organisms, including the producers themselves. Future research is needed to determine the biosynthesis site, stress-induced production, and physiological roles of 2,4-DTBP analogs.
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