Natural neo acids and neo alkanes: their analogs and derivatives.

This review presents more than 260 naturally occurring (as well as 47 synthesized) neo fatty (carboxylic) acids, neo alkanes, and their analogs and derivatives, isolated and identified from plants, algae, fungi, marine invertebrates, and microorganisms, that demonstrate different biological activities. These natural metabolites are good prospects for future chemical preparations as antioxidants, and also as anticancer, antimicrobial, and antibacterial agents. Described also are some synthetic bioactive compounds containing a tertiary butyl group(s) that have shown high anticancer, antifungal, and other activities. Applications of some neo fatty (carboxylic) acid derivatives in cosmetic, agronomic, and pharmaceutical industries also are considered. This is the first review to consider naturally occurring neo fatty (carboxylic) acids, neo alkanes, and other metabolites containing a tertiary butyl group(s) [or tert-butyl unit(s)].