hematein

Hematein is a natural polyphenolic compound and the oxidized derivative of hematoxylin, primarily extracted from the heartwood of logwood (*Haematoxylum campechianum*) or *Caesalpinia sappan*. It is most widely recognized as the active coloring agent in the Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) histological stain, where it complexes with metal ions (mordants) to selectively bind and visualize cell nuclei. Beyond its established role as a diagnostic dye and research reagent, hematein has been investigated for potential therapeutic applications due to its multi-target enzyme-inhibiting properties. Research has identified it as a potent inhibitor of IκB kinase β (IKKβ), a key regulator of the NF-κB inflammatory pathway, and as an inhibitor of the Zika virus protease. It also exhibits inhibitory activity against *Cutibacterium acnes* lipase, suggesting potential utility as an anti-acne agent, and acts as a ligand for the chromatin protein barrier-to-autointegration factor 1 (BAF1).

Other names

Oxidized hematoxylinC.I. 75290Natural Black 1