Based on stereoelectronic feature analysis using density functional theory (DFT) at B3LYP/3- 21∗ G level, a series of 4-(5-nitrofuran-2-yl) prop-2-en-1-one derivatives with low LUMO energies (<− 0.10 eV); concentrated over the nitro group, furan moiety and α, β-unsaturated carbonyl bridge were envisaged as potential antitubercular agents. The target compounds were prepared by condensation of 5-nitro-2-furaldehyde with various ketones under acidic ...