Synthesis and antioxidant activity of 3-substituted guaiazulene derivatives.

A series of 3-substituted guaiazulene derivatives has been synthesized and their antioxidant properties were evaluated by monitoring their capacity for scavenging the stable free-radical DPPH. 3-Vinylguaiazulene was the most potent, possessing antioxidant activity superior than alpha-tocopherol. These derivatives were also moderate inhibitors of the proliferation of human promyelocytic leukemia cells.