Hantzsch reaction: Recent advances in Hantzsch 1,4-dihydropyridines

Hantzsch reaction seems to be one of the earliest procedures for the production of pyridines. Later on, Hantzsch 1,4-dihydropyridines, which mimic NADH reduction process in vitro, have shown promising biological activities. This review presents production procedure, major reactions of current interest, oxidation and reduction of Hantzsch 1,4-dihydropyridines, besides indication of some existing gaps and areas to be developed.