The Rise of Boron-Containing Compounds: Advancements in Synthesis, Medicinal Chemistry, and Emerging Pharmacology

Chem Rev. 2024 Mar 13;124(5):2441-2511. doi: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00663. Epub 2024 Feb 21.

Abstract

Boron-containing compounds (BCC) have emerged as important pharmacophores. To date, five BCC drugs (including boronic acids and boroles) have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of cancer, infections, and atopic dermatitis, while some natural BCC are included in dietary supplements. Boron's Lewis acidity facilitates a mechanism of action via formation of reversible covalent bonds within the active site of target proteins. Boron has also been employed in the development of fluorophores, such as BODIPY for imaging, and in carboranes that are potential neutron capture therapy agents as well as novel agents in diagnostics and therapy. The utility of natural and synthetic BCC has become multifaceted, and the breadth of their applications continues to expand. This review covers the many uses and targets of boron in medicinal chemistry.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Boranes*
  • Boron / chemistry
  • Boron Compounds / chemistry
  • Boron Neutron Capture Therapy* / methods
  • Boronic Acids
  • Chemistry, Pharmaceutical
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Boron
  • Boron Compounds
  • Boronic Acids
  • Boranes