Understanding quinone derivatives antibacterial and antimicrobial activities relies on the structural activity relationship

The diverse area of quinone derivatives has long captured the attention of researchers due to their intriguing chemical structures and multifaceted pharmacological properties. Among their manifold therapeutic potentials, their antimicrobial activities have become a subject of profound interest and investigation. This book chapter discusses the relationship between quinone derivatives and antimicrobial activities, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms through the lens of structural activity relationships (SAR). In this broad study, we cross the rich landscape of quinone derivatives, dissecting their structural diversity and the profound impact they exert on their antimicrobial properties. From natural sources to synthetic analogs, the chapter offers a panoramic view of benzoquinone, naphthoquinone, and anthraquinone-based compounds with varying structural motifs, unveiling the subtle nuances that govern their interactions with microbial organisms. Through an extensive review of experimental data and case studies, we uncover the SAR principles that underpin the antimicrobial efficacy of quinone derivatives against a wide spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. We analyze the critical structural features that enhance or inhibit their antimicrobial potential, providing invaluable insights for researchers and drug developers. This chapter can serve as an essential resource for scientists, pharmacologists, and medicinal chemists seeking to harness the vast potential of quinone derivatives in combatting infectious diseases. Establishing a firm foundation in SAR principles empowers researchers to innovate and develop novel quinone-based therapeutics, ultimately advancing the fight against antimicrobial resistance and improving global public health.