Zalecan

Zalecan is a fictional synthetic organic compound commonly used in teaching materials to illustrate pharmacology and medicinal chemistry concepts. In these examples, zalecan is described as a small-molecule modulator of intracellular signaling with a molecular weight in the approximate mid-300s and a logP indicating moderate lipophilicity. The structure is typically depicted as containing a bicyclic core with an amide linkage and a tertiary amine, though exact drawings vary between sources.

Origin: The name zalecan and the accompanying structural depiction are invented for instructional purposes and do not refer to a real, isolated compound. No peer-reviewed characterization or regulatory filing exists for zalecan in actual pharmacopoeias.

Synthesis and properties: In fictional scenarios, zalecan is described as being accessible via a short two- or three-step synthesis from common precursors. In these narratives, it shows limited aqueous solubility and higher solubility in organic solvents. In silico estimates place its stability under typical storage conditions.

Biological activity: The imaginary compound is described as a selective modulator of a signaling pathway related to inflammation and cell proliferation, with inhibitory or modulatory effects observed in in vitro assays at micromolar concentrations. No in vivo efficacy or safety data exist in real-world literature.

Impact and status: As a pedagogical device, zalecan serves to illustrate concepts such as target engagement, pharmacodynamics, SAR exploration, and preclinical evaluation. It has no clinical or regulatory status and is not approved for any medical use.