This paper describes the catalytic activation studies of the reduction of some 2-substituted-5-nitrofuran compounds by [Rh(COD)(2-picoline)2](PF6) (COD = 1,5-cyclooctadiene) anchored on poly(4-vinylpyridine) in contact with 80% aqueous 2-ethoxyethanol at 100 º C under carbon monoxide atmosphere. The effect of varying the nature of the 2-substituents of the furan ring was evaluated. The importance of the present catalysis studies can be emphasized, because the potential activity against bacteria of the 2-substituted-5-nitrofuran compounds could be monitored by determining the facility of catalytic reduction of the nitro group