Advances of isoindolinone scaffold in structural optimization and pharmacological mechanism for agrochemical potential

The isoindolinone scaffold serves as a vital pharmacophore in agrochemical innovation. It offers a solution to the limitations of conventional pesticides and supporting sustainable crop protection. The isoindolinone scaffold features structural properties as a hydrophobic aromatic ring, hydrogen-bonding domains, and electron-donating groups that enhance membrane permeability and target interaction. Its derivatives demonstrate broad and tunable bioactivity. Key advancements include their roles as insecticides, herbicides, antimicrobial agents, and plant growth regulators. This review outlines these developments to guide the design of effective and eco-friendly agrochemicals. Isoindolinone is a highly versatile scaffold for next-generation agrochemical development. Advancing its potential requires deeper mechanistic insights, scalable and cost-effective synthesis, and adherence to green chemistry principles. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.