Juglone

Juglone is an organic compound with the formula C₁₀H₆O₃. It is a toxic substance found in the walnut tree and other plants of the family Juglandaceae. Juglone is a type of naphthoquinone, a class of compounds with a wide range of biological activities.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Juglone is a yellow crystalline solid with a melting point of 162-163°C. It is soluble in ethanol, ether, and acetone, but insoluble in water. The chemical structure of juglone includes a benzene ring fused with a quinone ring, which is responsible for its biological activity.

Chemical structure of juglone

Biological Activity

Juglone exhibits strong antifungal, antibacterial, and insecticidal properties. It is toxic to many types of plants and can inhibit their growth, a phenomenon known as allelopathy. Juglone is also known to have antitumor and antiviral activities.

Health Effects

Exposure to juglone can cause skin irritation and potentially more serious health effects. It is considered a potential carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Environmental Impact

Juglone can have a significant impact on the environment due to its allelopathic properties. It can inhibit the growth of other plants in the vicinity of the walnut tree, affecting biodiversity and the structure of plant communities.

See Also

• Naphthoquinone
• Allelopathy
• Walnut