Cyano-, Nitrile-

4-Amino-2-cyanotoluene is a quinazoline compound that inhibits the synthesis of thymine, which is necessary for DNA replication. This compound binds to the enzyme thymidylate synthetase, thereby inhibiting the synthesis of thymine. The inhibitory effect has been shown in a study using calf thymus DNA. 4-Amino-2-cyanotoluene also inhibits the synthesis of other nucleic acids such as adenine and guanine.

2-Chloro-4-fluorobenzonitrile is a drug that has been shown to have antitumor effects by binding to the CB2 receptor. It inhibits hydrogenation reduction of the molecule, which may be due to its ability to react with both functional groups. 2-Chloro-4-fluorobenzonitrile has also been shown to inhibit progesterone receptor, which may lead to an increase in progesterone levels and a decrease in estrogen levels. The pharmacokinetic properties of this compound are not yet known.

2-(Dicyanomethylene)indan-1,3-dione is a zwitterion that can be used as an acceptor in organic synthesis. It reacts with nucleophiles (e.g., amines) to form the corresponding adducts and is reversibly hydrolyzed by water or alkali. 2-(Dicyanomethylene)indan-1,3-dione is also known for its ability to undergo nucleophilic attack of the carbonyl group and react with anilines to form the corresponding azine derivatives. This molecule has been shown to be a good candidate for use in uv irradiation due to its high absorption coefficient at 260 nm.

3-Cyanoethylbenzoic acid is an anthropogenic compound that is produced by the Friedel-Crafts reaction between benzoyl chloride and acrylonitrile in the presence of a base. 3-Cyanoethylbenzoic acid is used as a solvent for chromatographic methods, such as gradient elution, ion exchange, and reversed phase. 3-Cyanoethylbenzoic acid has been used to determine the optical purity of benzoate salts and amides. This compound can be taken orally in solid oral dosage form or enterically in liquid oral dosage form. 3-Cyanoethylbenzoic acid interacts with other drugs that are metabolized by CYP3A4, such as erythromycin, to produce an active metabolite (N-desmethyldesipramide).