4-(1,2-Dihydroxyethyl)benzene-1,2-diol is a phenolic derivative with redox activity that can act as an oxidizing agent. 4-(1,2-Dihydroxyethyl)benzene-1,2-diol downregulates the expression of pro-inflammatory enzymes (iNOS, COX-2) and inhibits the degradation of IκBα, and is commonly used in research on inflammation-related diseases.