Title:Recent Applications of Azo Dyes: A Paradigm Shift from Medicinal Chemistry to Biomedical Sciences
Volume: 21
Issue: 9
Author(s): Md. Nasim Khan*, Digvijaysinh K. Parmar and Debasis Das
Affiliation:
- Department of Chemistry, RK University, Rajkot, Gujrat-360020,India
Keywords:
Azo compounds, antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, bioimaging, biomedical science.
Abstract: Azo molecules possess the characteristic azo bond (-N=N-) and are considered fascinating
motifs in organic chemistry. Since the last century, these brightly colored compounds have been widely
employed as dyes across several industries in applications for printing, food, paper, cosmetics, lasers,
electronics, optics, material sciences, etc. The discovery of Prontosil, an antibacterial drug, propelled
azo compounds into the limelight in the field of medicinal chemistry. Subsequent discoveries
including Phenazopyridine, Basalazide, and Sulfasalazine enabled azo compounds to occupy a significant
role in the drug market. Furthermore, azo compounds have been employed as antibacterial, antimalarial,
antifungal, antioxidant, as well as antiviral agents. The metabolic degradation of many azo
dyes can induce liver problems if ingested, posing a safety concern and limiting their application as
azo dyes in medicinal chemistry. However, azo dyes remain particularly significant for applications in
cancer chemotherapy. Recently, a paradigm shift has been observed in the use of azo dyes: from medicinal
chemistry to biomedical sciences. The latter benefits from azo dye application are related to
imaging, drug delivery, photo-pharmacology and photo switching. Herein, we have compiled and
discussed recent works on azo dye compounds obtained so far, focusing on their medicinal importance
and future prospects.