Isolation, pharmacological properties, chemical syntheses, and biosynthesis of Isobavachalcone (IBC): A historical perspective to the future direction

Abstract: Isobavachalcone (IBC) is a prenylated flavonoid, originally isolated from Psoralea corylifolia, a legume used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine to treat various health issues. Known for its diverse biological activities-including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antiviral, neuroprotective, and bone-protective effects-IBC has become a focus of scientific study. This mini-review encompasses key studies of IBC, covering its isolation, pharmacological properties, chemical synthesis, and biosynthesis to benefit both chemists and biologists. The unique chalcone structure and prenyl group on the aromatic ring make IBC particularly intriguing for its wide-ranging bioactivities, synthetic approaches, structural variations, and biosynthetic insights that could aid future drug development and clinical applications.