1,3-Dibenzylidene-2-cyclohexanone TCI D1194

1,3-Dibenzylidene-2-cyclohexanone from TCI is a cyclohexanone derivative with two benzylidene groups, one on each alpha carbon beside the carbonyl group. Much of the literature also calls it 2,6-dibenzylidenecyclohexanone. The compound is a cross-conjugated dienone and is often treated as a simple curcumin analogue. Laboratories use it as a building block, a Michael acceptor, a model compound in photochemistry and a reference compound in bioactivity research on curcumin analogues. Because it serves all of these roles, it is a practical non-heterocyclic building block for synthetic and medicinal chemistry groups.

Its extended conjugated system links two phenyl rings through the carbonyl group. This gives the compound strong absorption in the UV-Vis region, so it usually appears yellowish. The two double bonds next to the carbonyl are electrophilic and react with nucleophiles such as thiols and amines. This reactivity is the basis for its use in heterocycle synthesis and in studies of how small molecules interact with biomolecules. The molecule is also rigid and symmetrical, which interests researchers working on optical materials. Because the structure is well defined and reacts predictably, results are easier to interpret and compare between experiments.

The compound is especially relevant in Indonesia. Curcumin from turmeric (kunyit) and Javanese ginger (temulawak) is one of the natural products most often studied by Indonesian researchers. University and research institute laboratories that work on natural product chemistry, medicinal chemistry and pharmacology often need simple, well-characterised curcumin analogues for comparison. This compound fits that need. It lets researchers relate structural features to biological activity and design new derivatives from a familiar parent scaffold.

• Synthesis of heterocyclic compounds: the electrophilic conjugated double bonds react with nitrogen and sulfur nucleophiles, so the compound is a convenient starting point for ring-forming reactions.
• Michael addition studies: the two activated alkenes next to the carbonyl group accept nucleophiles such as thiols and amines, which makes the compound a useful model Michael acceptor.
• Curcumin analogue bioactivity research: as a simple cross-conjugated dienone that resembles curcumin, it serves as a reference compound when comparing the biological activity of new analogues.
• Photochemistry model studies: the long conjugated system gives strong UV-Vis absorption, so the compound works well as a model for studying light-driven reactions and spectroscopic behaviour.
• Optical materials research: its rigid, symmetrical structure and extended conjugation make it an interesting candidate for exploring structure and property relationships in optical materials.

• Synonym: 2,6-Dibenzylidenecyclohexanone
• Appearance: generally yellowish because of its strong UV-Vis absorption

Keep the compound in its original, tightly closed manufacturer's container, or in a well-sealed amber glass bottle. Store it in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from direct light. Its strong light absorption makes it sensitive to photochemical change. Keep it away from strong oxidising agents and from reactive nucleophiles such as amines and thiols, which can react with its electrophilic double bonds. Handle the material in a fume hood or a well-ventilated area, and wear safety glasses, gloves and a laboratory coat. Avoid creating or breathing dust. Always read the product's Safety Data Sheet for the recommended storage conditions and hazard information before use.

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