Synthetic benzofuran-linked chalcones with dual actions: a potential therapeutic approach to manage diabetes mellitus.

Identification of molecules having dual capabilities to reduce postprandial hyperglycemia and oxidative stress is one of the therapeutic approaches to treat diabetes mellitus. In this connection, a library of benzofuran-linked chalcone derivatives were evaluated for their dual action. A series of substituted benzofuran-linked chalcones () were synthesized and tested for α-amylase inhibitory as well as 2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging activities. All compounds showed α-amylase inhibitory activity ranging from IC = 12.81 ± 0.03 to 87.17 ± 0.15 μM, compared with the standard acarbose (IC = 13.98 ± 0.03 μM). Compounds also demonstrated radical scavenging potential against DPPH and ABTS radicals. The identified compounds may serve as potential leads for further advanced research.