2,4-thiazolidinedione based compounds as multifunctional therapeutic agents: A review

2,4-thiazolidinedione derivatives have emerged as a versatile class of heterocyclic compounds exhibiting a broad spectrum of biological activities. 2,4-thiazolidinediones which are otherwise called as glitazones are widely studied for their antidiabetic activity targeting peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR Ƴ). Studies are still under progress to address the side effects associated with the marketed TZD derivatives used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Recent studies are also focused to explore the other therapeutic properties like anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial and antitubercular properties of the nucleus. Advancements in synthetic strategies have facilitated the development of novel TZD derivatives with improved potency and reduced toxicity. This provides a comprehensive overview of the literatures on TZD derivatives as possible antihyperglycemic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant and antitubercular agents.