Derivatives of Ferulic Acid: Structure, Preparation and Biological Activities

Ferulic acid is a natural compound that possesses multiple physiological and pharmaceutical functions. The chemical, physical, and pharmaceutical properties of this phenolic acid can be improved by derivatives with other active compounds. This sentence (Hence, such improvements can widen the applications of ferulic acid in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.) has been deleted. This article reviewed the identification, preparation, and biological activities of feruloyl derivatives of carbohydrates, glycerol and glycerides, amide, fatty alcohol, myo-inositol, and nitric oxide. It also briefly discussed other derivatives. Researchers are encouraged to carry out toxicological, pharmacokinetic, and clinical investigation of potent active feruloyl derivatives and to develop other derivatives.