furocumarine

Furocoumarines, also known as psoralens, are a class of organic compounds composed of a furan ring fused with a coumarin backbone. These compounds are naturally occurring in various plants, particularly in members of the Apiaceae (carrot and parsley) and Rutaceae (citrus) families. Furocoumarines are notable for their photoreactive properties, meaning they can absorb ultraviolet (UV) light and form covalent bonds with pyrimidine bases in DNA, leading to potential mutations.

In traditional medicine and modern pharmacology, furocoumarines are used in psoralen therapy (PUVA), a treatment for skin conditions such as psoriasis, vitiligo, and eczema. In this context, purified compounds like 8-methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) are combined with UVA light exposure to induce controlled skin cell apoptosis and repigmentation. However, exposure to UV light in the presence of furocoumarines also poses risks, including photoaging and increased skin cancer risk.

Furocoumarines are also studied for their antimicrobial and antiviral activities, with some exhibiting activity against certain bacteria and viruses. Nonetheless, due to their potential phototoxicity and mutagenic effects, their use is carefully regulated.

Natural sources of furocoumarines include plants such as Ammi majus, Psoralea corylifolia, and Citrus species. Extraction and synthesis of these compounds facilitate their application in medical, cosmetic, and research settings.

Overall, while furocoumarines hold therapeutic potential, their use is accompanied by safety considerations stemming from their biological activity and phototoxic effects.