1-[1-(2,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodioxin-3-yl)ethyl]-3-phenylthiourea

1-[1-(2,3-dihydro-1,4-benzodioxin-3-yl)ethyl]-3-phenylthiourea, also known as **DIOXIN-3-YL-ETHYL-PHENYLTHIOUREA** (often abbreviated as DPETU), is a synthetic compound with a complex structure.

**Structure:**

* It contains a **benzodioxin ring**, a six-membered ring with two oxygen atoms.
* It has a **thiourea group**, which contains a carbon atom double-bonded to a sulfur atom and single-bonded to two nitrogen atoms.
* It has a **phenyl group**, which is a benzene ring with a single hydrogen atom replaced by a carbon chain.
* It also contains an **ethyl group** attached to the benzodioxin ring.

**Importance for Research:**

DPETU is a **potent inhibitor of the enzyme thioredoxin reductase (TrxR)**.

* **TrxR is an important enzyme in cellular redox regulation.** It catalyzes the reduction of thioredoxin (Trx), a small protein involved in various cellular processes, including DNA synthesis, cell proliferation, and immune response.
* **Inhibition of TrxR can have various pharmacological effects.** For example, it has shown potential in **anti-cancer research**, as inhibiting TrxR can disrupt the redox balance in cancer cells and induce apoptosis (cell death).

**Other research areas where DPETU has been investigated:**

* **Anti-inflammatory effects:** DPETU has been shown to inhibit inflammation in some studies.
* **Antioxidant effects:** DPETU may also have antioxidant properties due to its interaction with reactive oxygen species.

**However, it's important to note:**

* Research on DPETU is still ongoing, and its exact mechanisms of action and its potential benefits and risks are not fully understood.
* It's crucial to consult peer-reviewed scientific literature for the most updated and accurate information about DPETU and its potential applications.

**Overall, DPETU is a promising compound with potential applications in various research areas, particularly in the field of cancer therapy.** Further research is necessary to explore its full potential and to develop safe and effective therapeutic strategies based on its properties.