1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-3-[4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-piperazinyl]pyrrolidine-2,5-dione

The compound you're asking about, **1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-3-[4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-piperazinyl]pyrrolidine-2,5-dione**, is a complex organic molecule with a long and unwieldy name. It's often referred to by its more concise chemical name: **(±)-MDL 100,704**.

**What is it?**

* **Structure:** MDL 100,704 is a heterocyclic compound. This means it contains a ring structure with atoms of different elements, including carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen.
* **Components:** It's composed of several distinct parts:
* **Benzodioxole:** This is a ring system found in many natural products, including the spice nutmeg.
* **Piperazine:** A six-membered ring containing nitrogen.
* **Pyrrolidinedione:** A five-membered ring containing two carbonyl groups (C=O).
* **Hydroxyphenyl:** A phenyl ring (a six-membered carbon ring) with a hydroxyl group (OH) attached.
* **Stereochemistry:** It's a racemic mixture, meaning it contains equal amounts of two mirror-image forms (enantiomers).

**Why is it Important for Research?**

MDL 100,704 has garnered attention primarily due to its pharmacological properties. It acts as a **potent and selective inhibitor of the enzyme Monoamine Oxidase A (MAO-A)**.

**Here's why this is significant:**

* **MAO-A:** This enzyme is crucial in the breakdown of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain.
* **MAO-A Inhibitors:** By inhibiting MAO-A, drugs like MDL 100,704 can increase the levels of these neurotransmitters. This has potential therapeutic benefits for a range of conditions, including:
* **Depression:** Increasing serotonin levels is a key strategy for treating depression.
* **Anxiety:** MAO-A inhibitors have also been investigated for anxiety disorders.
* **Parkinson's disease:** Increasing dopamine levels can help manage motor symptoms.
* **Other neurological conditions:** Further research explores potential applications in conditions like Alzheimer's disease and ADHD.

**Important Notes:**

* **Clinical use:** MDL 100,704 is a research compound and is **not currently used in clinical settings.**
* **Safety concerns:** MAO-A inhibitors can have serious side effects, including drug interactions. It's crucial to use them under careful medical supervision.
* **Continued research:** Research continues to explore the therapeutic potential of MDL 100,704 and other MAO-A inhibitors.

If you're interested in learning more about MDL 100,704 or its potential applications, I recommend searching scientific databases like PubMed or consulting with a qualified medical professional.