Dihydroartemisinin: Advanced Compound for Malaria and Beyond

1. Molecular Identity

• Chemical Name: (3R,5aS,6R,8aS,9R,12S,12aR)-Octahydro-3,6,9-trimethyl-3,12-epoxy-12H-pyrano[4,3-j]-1,2-benzodioxepin-10(3H)-one
• CAS Number: 71939-50-9
• Source: Semi-synthetic derivative of artemisinin, originally isolated from Artemisia annua (sweet wormwood)

2. Scientific Relevance

Dihydroartemisinin is a well-characterized compound with critical significance in malaria-related research. It contains a unique endoperoxide bridge, which plays a pivotal role in its biochemical activity. As the active metabolite of several artemisinin derivatives, it is widely used in studies related to parasitology, molecular interactions, and compound screening platforms.

3. Functional Characteristics

• High activity in malaria-related experimental models
• Studied in cell signaling and oxidative stress mechanisms
• Investigated for its interactions with inflammation pathways
• Explored in combination matrices for enhanced performance

4. Research Applications

• Malaria-focused biochemical and formulation studies
• Cellular response profiling and compound efficacy evaluation
• Bioactivity screening in natural product chemistry
• Mechanistic modeling in stress-response pathways

5. Ongoing Research Directions

Current research includes investigations on:

• Resistance mechanisms in Plasmodium species
• Comparative analysis of artemisinin derivatives
• Structural optimization and delivery innovations
• Non-traditional applications in redox-active systems

6. Formulation Insights

Active areas of formulation science include:

• Improving physical stability under various conditions
• Enhancing solubility and material compatibility
• Developing co-compound systems and complex matrices

7. Regulatory Context

Dihydroartemisinin (CAS 71939-50-9) is a component in combination regimens included in WHO guidelines for malaria. Any alternative uses in regulated applications would require compliance with jurisdiction-specific safety assessments and legal frameworks.

8. Future Perspectives

The scientific community continues to explore:

• Structure–activity relationships within the artemisinin class
• Next-generation derivatives for broader research applicability
• Platform integration in compound libraries and screening assays

9. Collaborative Opportunities

We invite parasitologists, medicinal chemists, and academic partners to explore the versatile research potential of Dihydroartemisinin. For technical details, collaborative discussions, or custom documentation, please contact us at [email protected].

Advance your research with Dihydroartemisinin – a key molecule in natural product chemistry and bioactive compound development.