Design, synthesis and screening of 1, 2, 4-triazinone derivatives as potential antitumor agents with apoptosis inducing activity on MCF-7 breast cancer cell line

The activity of pyrazolo[4,3-e][1,2,4]triazine and pyrazolo[4,3-e]tetrazolo[1,5-b][1,2,4]triazine sulphonamide derivatives in monolayer and spheroid breast cancer cell cultures

In the last decade, an increasing interest in compounds containing pyrazolo[4,3-e][1,2,4]triazine moiety is observed. Therefore, the aim of the research was to synthesise a novel sulphonyl pyrazolo[4,3-e][1,2,4]triazines (2a, 2b) and pyrazolo[4,3-e]tetrazolo[1,5-b][1,2,4]triazine sulphonamide derivatives (3a, 3b) to assess their anticancer activity. The MTT assay showed that 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b have stronger cytotoxic activity than cisplatin in both breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and exhibited weaker effect on normal breast cells (MCF-10A). The obtained results showed that the most active compound 3b increased apoptosis via caspase 9, caspase 8, and caspase 3/7. It is worth to note that compound 3b suppressed NF-κB expression and promoted p53, Bax, and ROS which play important role in activation of apoptosis. Moreover, our results confirmed that compound 3b triggers autophagy through increased formation of autophagosomes, expression of beclin-1 and mTOR inhibition. Thus, our study defines a possible mechanism underlying 3b-induced anti-cancer activity against breast cancer cell lines.

New imidazole-2-thiones linked to acenaphythylenone as dual DNA intercalators and topoisomerase II inhibitors: structural optimization, docking, and apoptosis studies

In this article, a new series of 2-((3,5-disubstituted-2-thioxo-imidazol-1-yl)imino)acenaphthylen-1(2H)-ones were synthesized. Imidazole-2-thione with acenaphthylen-one gave a hybrid scaffold that integrated key structural elements essential for DNA damage via direct DNA intercalation and inhibition of the topoisomerase II enzyme. All the synthesized compounds were screened to detect their DNA damage using a terbium fluorescent probe. Results demonstrated that 4-phenyl-imidazoles 5b and 5e in addition to 4-(4-chlorophenyl)imidazoles 5h and 5j would induce detectable potent damage in ctDNA. The four most potent compounds as DNA intercalators were further evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against HepG2, MCF-7 and HCT-116 utilizing the MTT assay. The highest anticancer activity was recorded with compounds 5b and 5h against the breast cancer cell line MCF-7 which were 1.5- and 3- folds more active than doxorubicin, respectively. Therefore, imidazole-2-thione tethered acenaphthylenone derivatives can be considered as promising scaffold for the development of effective dual DNA intercalators and topoisomerase II inhibitors.

QSAR, ADMET, molecular docking, and dynamics studies of 1,2,4-triazine-3(2H)-one derivatives as tubulin inhibitors for breast cancer therapy

Breast cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women globally, necessitating the development of more effective therapeutic agents with minimal side effects. This study explores novel 1,2,4-triazine-3(2H)-one derivatives as potential inhibitors of Tubulin, a pivotal protein in cancer cell division, highlighting a targeted approach in cancer therapy. Using an integrated computational approach, we combined quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) modeling, ADMET profiling, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations to evaluate and predict the efficacy and stability of these compounds. Our QSAR models, developed through rigorous statistical analysis, revealed that descriptors such as absolute electronegativity and water solubility significantly influence inhibitory activity, achieving a predictive accuracy (R2) of 0.849. Molecular docking studies identified compounds with high binding affinities, particularly Pred28, which exhibited the best docking score of - 9.6 kcal/mol. Molecular dynamics simulations conducted over 100 ns provided further insights into the stability of these interactions. Pred28 demonstrated notable stability, with the lowest root mean square deviation (RMSD) of 0.29 nm and root mean square fluctuation (RMSF) values indicative of a tightly bound conformation to Tubulin. The novelty of this work lies in its methodological rigor and the integration of multiple advanced computational techniques to pinpoint compounds with promising therapeutic potential. Our findings advance the current understanding of Tubulin inhibitors and open avenues for the synthesis and experimental validation of these compounds, aiming to offer new solutions for breast cancer treatment.

Synthesis and biological research of new imidazolone-sulphonamide-pyrimidine hybrids as potential EGFR-TK inhibitors and apoptosis-inducing agents

Development of new effective EGFR-targeted antitumor agents is needed because of their clinical significance. A new series of imidazolone-sulphonamide-pyrimidine hybrids was designed and synthesized as modified analogs of some reported EGFR inhibitors. The cytotoxic activity of all the synthesized hybrids was investigated against the breast MCF-7 cancerous cell line using doxorubicin (Dox) as a positive control. 4-(Furan-2-ylmethylene)imidazolone-sulphonamide-pyrimidine 6b had the best potent activity against MCF-7 cells with IC50 result of 1.05 μM, which was better than Dox (IC50 = 1.91 μM). In addition, mechanistic studies revealed the ability of compounds 5g, 5h and 6b to inhibit EGFR kinase. Cell cycle analysis revealed that compound 6b can halt MCF-7 cells at the G1 phase with a concomitant decrease in cellular percentage at the S and G2/M phases. This compound produced a noticeable rise in the proportion of apoptotic cells with regard to the untreated control. Furthermore, the effects of hybrid 6b on the expression levels of pro-apoptotic Bax and pro-survival Bcl2 were assessed. The results showed that this compound upregulated the level of Bax expression as well as declined the expression value of Bcl-2 with regard to the untreated control.

Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Newly Synthesized Cinnamide-Fluorinated Containing Compounds as Bioactive Anticancer Agents

A new series of cinnamide-fluorinated derivatives has been synthesized and characterized by using different spectroscopic and elemental microanalyses methods. All of the prepared p-fluorocinnamide derivatives were evaluated for their cytotoxic activity against the HepG2 liver cancerous cell line. The imidazolone derivative 6, which bears N-(N-pyrimidin-2-ylbenzenesulphamoyl) moiety, displayed antiproliferative activity against HepG2 liver cancerous cells with an IC50 value of 4.23 μM as compared to staurosporin (STU) (IC50 = 5.59 μM). In addition, compound 6 experienced epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitory activity comparable to palatinib. The cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry indicated that compound 6 arrested the cellular cycle of HepG2 cells at the G1 phase. Additionally, as demonstrated by the fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) technique, compound 6 increased both early and late apoptotic ratios compared to control untreated HepG2 cells. Moreover, imidazolone compound 6 induced apoptosis via the intrinsic apoptotic pathway by decreasing the level of mitochondrial membrane polarization (MMP) compared to untreated HepG2 cells. Therefore, the new N-(N-pyrimidin-2-ylbenzenesulphamoyl)imidazolone derivative 6 could be considered a potential platform for further optimizing an antitumor agent against hepatocellular carcinoma.

Design, synthesis and cytotoxic activity of molecular hybrids based on quinolin-8-yloxy and cinnamide hybrids and their apoptosis inducing property

The present work aims at design and synthesis of a congeneric series of small hybrids 5 and 6a-i featuring the privileged quinoline scaffold tethered with 2-(arylamido)cinnamide moiety as potential anticancer tubulin polymerization inhibitors. Most of the synthesized hybrids 5 and 6a-i significantly inhibited the growth of the HepG2 cell line, with IC50 ranged from 2.46 to 41.31 μM. In particular, 2-(3,4,5-trimethoxybenzamido)-4-methoxycinnamide-quinoline hybrid 6e displayed potent IC50 value toward the examined cell line, and hence chosen for further mechanistic investigations. It is noteworthy that the antiproliferative action of compound 6e highly correlated well with its ability to inhibit tubulin polymerization. In addition, the most potent hybrid 6e demonstrated a significant modification in the cellular cycle distribution, in addition to provoke of apoptotic death within the tested HepG2 cell line. Furthermore, the mechanistic approach was confirmed by a substantial upregulation in the quantity of active caspase 9 by 5.81-fold relative to untreated control cells.

Evaluation of novel synthesized thiazole derivatives as potential aromatase inhibitors against breast cancer

Background: 4-Methylacetophenone is used in the preparation of starting materials, 4-methylphenacyle bromide (2) and 4-methylacetophenone thiosemicarbazole (3). Results: Several novel 2,4-disubstituted-1,3-thiazole analogues were obtained via the treatment of starting materials with 4-methylphenacyl bromide, acetyl chloride, aromatic aldehydes and bromination providing thiazole derivatives 5-8 respectively. Conclusion: Compounds 5-8 were investigated for their cytotoxic activity on MCF-7 and normal breast cells. Active compounds were found and in contrast to staurosporine, compound 8 displayed the most potent cytotoxic action that showed a strong inhibitory effect (aromatase) and (protein tyrosine kinase) enzymes, proving that the novel thiazole derivatives promoted the effective anticancer drug candidates.

New 2-alkoxycyanopyridine derivatives as inhibitors of EGFR, HER2, and DHFR: Synthesis, anticancer evaluation, and molecular modeling studies

New series of substituted 2-alkoxycyanopyridine derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro and in vivo anticancer activities. Comparing the evaluated activities against cancer cell lines to the broad-spectrum anticancer doxorubicin, and the kinase inhibitor sorafenib, compounds 3a, 4b, 4c, 7a, and 8d demonstrated superior anticancer efficacy with elevated safety profiles and selectivity indices, particularly against MCF7 breast cancer. For exploration of their mechanism of action, assays for inhibition of EGFR, HER2 kinase, and DHFR were performed. The promising synthesized compounds exhibited potent dual kinase EGFR/HER2 inhibitory activity with IC50values of 0.248/0.156 μM for 4b and 0.138/0.092 μM for 4c. Additionally, with IC50 values of 0.138 and 0.193 M, respectively, 4b and 4c had the greatest DHFR inhibitory activity that was comparable to methotrexate. In the MCF7 breast cancer cell line, they caused arrest at the S phase of the cell cycle and exhibited apoptosis induction activity. With restored caspase-3 immunoexpression, the anti-breast cancer assay performed in vivo of 4b and 4c demonstrated a substantial decrease in tumor volume. Results from molecular modeling were in agreement with biological assays proving the importance of the 3-caynopyridine, two substituted phenyl rings attached to central pyridine ring, and propoxy side chain moieties for binding with the receptors. As 4c works by inhibiting both EGFR/HER2 kinase, DHFR enzymes, in addition to cellular apoptosis, it could be viewed as a model of compounds possessing a multi-targeting anticancer activity. Collectively, compounds 4b and 4c might represent prototypes for further development as anticancer molecules.

Design, synthesis and antiproliferative screening of newly synthesized acrylate derivatives as potential anticancer agents

A new series of acrylic acid and acrylate ester derivatives as modified analogs of tubulin polymerization inhibitors were designed and synthesized. The antiproliferative activity of the constructed molecules was investigated against MCF-7 breast carcinoma cells using CA-4 as positive molecule. Methyl acrylate ester 6e emerged as the most potent cytotoxic agent against MCF-7 cells, with an IC50 value of 2.57 ± 0.16 μM. Also, methyl acrylate ester molecule 6e showed good β-tubulin polymerization inhibition activity. Cellular cycle analysis showed that compound 6e can arrest MCF-7 cells at the G2/M phase. In addition, this compound produced a significant increase in apoptotic power as compared to control untreated MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, the effect of acrylate ester 6e on the gene expression levels of p53, Bax and Bcl-2 was investigated. This molecule increased the expression levels of both p53 and Bax, and decreased the gene expression level of Bcl-2 as compared to control untreated MCF-7 carcinoma cells.

New Heterocyclic Compounds from Oxazol-5(4H)-one and 1,2,4-Triazin-6(5H)-one Classes: Synthesis, Characterization and Toxicity Evaluation

This paper describes the synthesis of new heterocycles from oxazol-5(4H)-one and 1,2,4-triazin-6(5H)-one classes containing a phenyl-/4-bromophenylsulfonylphenyl moiety. The oxazol-5(4H)-ones were obtained via condensation of 2-(4-(4-X-phenylsulfonyl)benzamido)acetic acids with benzaldehyde/4-fluorobenzaldehyde in acetic anhydride and in the presence of sodium acetate. The reaction of oxazolones with phenylhydrazine, in acetic acid and sodium acetate, yielded the corresponding 1,2,4-triazin-6(5H)-ones. The structures of the compounds were confirmed using spectral (FT-IR, ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR, MS) and elemental analysis. The toxicity of the compounds was evaluated on Daphnia magna Straus crustaceans and on the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The results indicate that both the heterocyclic nucleus and halogen atoms significantly influenced the toxicity against D. magna, with the oxazolones being less toxic than triazinones. The halogen-free oxazolone had the lowest toxicity, and the fluorine-containing triazinone exhibited the highest toxicity. The compounds showed low toxicity against yeast cells, apparently due to the activity of plasma membrane multidrug transporters Pdr5 and Snq2. The predictive analyses indicated an antiproliferative effect as the most probable biological action. The PASS prediction and CHEMBL similarity studies show evidence that the compounds could inhibit certain relevant oncological protein kinases. These results correlated with toxicity assays suggest that halogen-free oxazolone could be a good candidate for future anticancer investigations.

Recent updates on 1,2,3-, 1,2,4-, and 1,3,5-triazine hybrids (2017-present): The anticancer activity, structure-activity relationships, and mechanisms of action

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death across the world, and the prevalence and mortality rates of cancer will continue to grow. Chemotherapeutics play a critical role in cancer therapy, but drug resistance and side effects are major hurdles to effective treatment, evoking an immediate need for the discovery of new anticancer agents. Triazines including 1,2,3-, 1,2,4-, and 1,3,5-triazine have occupied a propitious place in drug design and development due to their excellent pharmacological profiles. Mechanistically, triazine derivatives could interfere with various signaling pathways to induce cancer cell death. Hence, triazine derivatives possess potential in vitro and in vivo efficacy against diverse cancers. In particular, triazine hybrids are able to overcome drug resistance and reduce side effects. Moreover, several triazine hybrids such as brivanib (indole-containing pyrrolo[2,1-f][1,2,4]triazine), gedatolisib (1,3,5-triazine-urea hybrid), and enasidenib (1,3,5-triazine-pyridine hybrid) have already been available in the market. Accordingly, triazine hybrids are useful scaffolds for the discovery of novel anticancer chemotherapeutics. This review focuses on the anticancer activity of 1,2,3-, 1,2,4-, and 1,3,5-triazine hybrids, together with the structure-activity relationships and mechanisms of action developed from 2017 to the present. The enriched structure-activity relationships may be useful for further rational drug development of triazine hybrids as potential clinical candidates.

Trifluoromethylated 4,5-Dihydro-1,2,4-triazin-6(1H)-ones via (3+3)-Annulation of Nitrile Imines with α-Amino Esters

The synthesis of two series of monocyclic and bicyclic trifluoromethylated 4,5-dihydro-1,2,4-triazin-6(1H)-one derivatives based on (3+3)-annulation of methyl esters derived from natural α-amino acids with in situ generated trifluoroacetonitrile imines has been described. The devised protocol is characterized by a wide scope, easily accessible substrates, remarkable functional group tolerance, and high chemical yield. In reactions with chiral starting materials, no racemization at the stereogenic centers was observed and the respective enantiomerically pure products were obtained. Selected functional group interconversions carried out under catalytic hydrogenation and mild PTC oxidation conditions were also demonstrated.

Design and synthesis of new trimethoxylphenyl-linked combretastatin analogues loaded on diamond nanoparticles as a panel for ameliorated solubility and antiproliferative activity

A new series of vinyl amide-, imidazolone-, and triazinone-linked combretastatin A-4 analogues have been designed and synthesised. These compounds have been evaluated for their cytotoxic activity against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. The triazinone-linked combretastatin analogues (6 and 12) exhibited the most potent cytotoxic activity, in sub-micromolar concentration compared with combretastatin A-4 as a reference standard. The results of β-tubulin polymerisation inhibition assay appear to correlate well with the ability to inhibit β-tubulin polymerisation. Additionally, these compounds were subjected to biological assays relating to cell cycle aspects and apoptosis induction. In addition, the most potent compound 6 was loaded on PEG-PCL modified diamond nanoparticles (PEG-PCL-NDs) and F4 was picked as the optimum formula. F4 exhibited enhanced solubility and release over the drug suspension. In the comparative cytotoxic activity, PEG-PCL modified F4 was capable of diminishing the IC50 by around 2.89 times for nude F4, while by 3.48 times relative to non-formulated compound 6.

Design, Synthesis, and Investigation of Cytotoxic Activity of cis-Vinylamide-Linked Combretastatin Analogues as Potential Anticancer Agents

The combretastatins (cis-stilbenoid molecules) have received significant interest because of their simple chemical structures, excellent antiproliferative activity, and novel anti-tubulin molecular mechanism of action. Significant efforts have been carried out aiming at stabilizing the active cis-isomers. A new series of cis-vinylamide derivatives containing trimethoxyphenyl moiety were synthesized and characterized. Their anticancer activities were evaluated in vitro against MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. Compounds 2f, 3, and 5 displayed potent cytotoxic activity against the breast cancer cell line compared with CA-4 as the reference compound. The microtubule polymerization assay and flow cytometry analysis confirmed that the cytotoxic activity of compound 3 was related to inhibitory activity against tubulin polymerization. Compound 3 showed pro-apoptotic activity by inducting a significant increase in the percentage of pre-G1 phase in DNA flow cytometry compared to untreated control. The pro-apoptotic activity of compound 3 was inferred by a significant increase in the percentage of fluorescent annexin V/PI positive apoptotic cells. It also increased the level of caspase 3 compared to the untreated control.

Design, Synthesis, In Vitro Biological Activity Evaluation and Stabilized Nanostructured Lipid Carrier Formulation of Newly Synthesized Schiff Bases-Based TMP Moieties

A series of novel Schiff bases-based TMP moieties have been designed and synthesized as potential anticancer agents. The target Schiff bases were screened for their cytotoxic activity against the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line. Most of the tested molecules revealed good cytotoxic activity, especially compounds 4h, 4j and 5d. Being the most potent, compound 4h showed good tubulin polymerization inhibition activity as revealed by immunofluorescence analysis and ELISA assay. Additionally, compound 4h was screened for cell cycle disturbance and apoptosis induction. Pre-G1 apoptosis and cell growth halt at the G2/M phase were discovered to be caused by it. Moreover, compound 4h induced apoptosis via p53 and Bax activation, as well as reduced the level of Bcl-2. Additionally, the most potent compound 4h was lodged on nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs). 23 full factorial design was involved to govern the influence of the fabrication variables on the in vitro characters of the casted NLCs. F3 was picked as the optimum formula exhibiting dominant desirability value 0.805, EE% 95.6 ± 2.4, PS 222.4 ±18.7, PDI 0.23 ± 0.05 and ZP −39.2 ± 3.9 Mv. Furthermore, F3 affirmed improved solubility and release over the drug suspension. In the comparative cytotoxic activity, F3 was capable of diminishing the IC50 by around 2.15 times for pure 4h, while nearly close to the IC50 of the reference drug. Thus, NLCs could be a potential platform for boosted antitumor activity.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Novel 1,2,4-triazine Derivatives Containing Thiazole Ring against Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background:

New 6-hydroxy-5-(p-hydroxybenzylidene)-3-phenyl-2- [(5-pchlorophenyl)- 1,3-thiazol-2-yl]-1, 2, 4-triazine derivatives containing a thiazole ring were synthesised as potential antitumor agents.

Methods:

Cytotoxicity of compounds (3) and (4) was evaluated in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines (HepG2); compound (3) showed more cytotoxicity (IC50=9.0μg/ml) than compound (4) (IC50=18.40μg/ml) using doxorubicin as standard. The degree of toxicity of compound (3) was assessed by the LD50 with its anticancer performance by suppressing tumor angiogenesis against diethylnitrosamine (DENA) induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in male rat model.

Results :

Carcinogenic rats showed a significant increase in markers of angiogenesis, tumour growth, and liver function tests and malondialdehyde level coupled with reduced hepatic glutathione level and caspase-3 activity. The distribution of compound (3) to animals after the development of HCC improved biochemical alterations from a DENA chemical carcinogen that is confirmed by hepatic histopathology.

Conclusion:

Compound 3 perhaps utilized as a strong applicant for newly therapeutic protocols against hepatocarcinogenesis by controlling tumor angiogenesis and renovating the activity of hepatic marker enzymes in addition to reversing the oxidant-antioxidant imbalance in corporation with amelioration of histopathology. While the trial supports the use of compound 3 for improved HCC outcome and the toxicity and side effects should be considered.

In Vitro Antitumor Evaluation of Acrylic Acid Derivatives Bearing Quinolinone Moiety as Novel Anticancer Agents

BACKGROUND

Due to the emergence of resistance to available anticancer agents, the demand for new cytotoxic agents has grown.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims at synthesis and cytotoxic evaluation of new acrylic acid derivatives bearing quinolinone and halogenated quinolinone derivatives against three cancer cell lines.

METHODS

New acrylic acid derivatives bearing quinolinone and halogenated quinolinone moieties were synthesized and screened for their cytotoxic activity against breast MCF-7, liver HepG2, and colon HCT-116 cancer cell lines.

RESULTS

Molecules 3 and 8 showed the most potent cytotoxic activity against HCT-116. DNA flow cytometry assay showed cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase and cellular apoptosis. Moreover, molecules 3 and 8 showed cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) inhibitory activity compared to the untreated control sample.

CONCLUSION

Acrylic acid derivatives bearing quinolinone and halogenated quinolinone moieties represent an important core and could be used as a lead for further development of drug compounds in order to achieve promising therapeutic results.

4-(Indol-3-yl)thiazole-2-amines and 4-ιndol-3-yl)thiazole Acylamines as Νovel Antimicrobial Agents: Synthesis, In Silico and In Vitro Evaluation

This manuscript deals with the synthesis and computational and experimental evaluation of the antimicrobial activity of twenty-nine 4-(indol-3-yl)thiazole-2-amines and 4-ιndol-3-yl)thiazole acylamines. An evaluation of antibacterial activity against Gram (+) and Gram (-) bacteria revealed that the MIC of indole derivatives is in the range of 0.06-1.88 mg/mL, while among fourteen methylindole derivatives, only six were active, with an MIC in the range of of 0.47-1.88 mg/mL. S. aureus appeared to be the most resistant strain, while S. Typhimurium was the most sensitive. Compound 5x was the most promising, with an MIC in the range of 0.06-0.12 mg/mL, followed by 5d and 5m. An evaluation of these three compounds against resistant strains, namely MRSA P. aeruginosa and E. coli, revealed that they were more potent against MRSA than ampicillin. Furthermore, compounds 5m and 5x were superior inhibitors of biofilm formation, compared to ampicillin and streptomycin, in terms Compounds 5d, 5m, and 5x interact with streptomycin in additive manner. The antifungal activity of some compounds exceeded or was equipotent to those of the reference antifungal agents bifonazole and ketoconazole. The most potent antifungal agent was found to be compound 5g. Drug likeness scores of compounds was in a range of -0.63 to 0.29, which is moderate to good. According to docking studies, E. coli MurB inhibition is probably responsible for the antibacterial activity of compounds, whereas CYP51 inhibition was implicated in antifungal activity. Compounds appeared to be non-toxic, according to the cytotoxicity assessment in MRC-5 cells.

Design, Synthesis, Cytotoxic Screening and Molecular Docking Studies of Novel Hybrid Thiosemicarbazone Derivatives as Anticancer Agents

Thiosemicarbazones have been the focus of scientists owing to their broad clinical anticancer range. Herein, A Series of new thiosemicarbazone derivatives 5-9 were synthesized and confirmed through the use of different spectroscopic techniques along with elemental analysis. The in vitro cytotoxic activity of compounds 5-9 against MCF-7 and A549 cell lines and normal breast cells were assessed. Several compounds were found to be active. The most active compound 7 caused MCF-7 cell cycle arrest at G1/ S phases; and induced apoptosis at the pre-G1 phase. The apoptosis-inducing activity of compound 7 was proofed by the elevation of caspase 3/7 activity and also by up-regulation of the expression of Bax and p53 proteins together with the down-regulation of the expression of the Bcl-2 protein. It also had a strong inhibitory effect topoisomerase IIβ enzyme. Molecular Docking study revealed that the synthesized compounds had good docking scores compared to the standard drug Etoposide towards the topoisomerase IIβ protein (3QX3). Overall, these findings confirmed that the new thiosemicarbazone derivatives could aid in the development of promising cancer drug candidates.

Abu Ali O, Fayad E, Ahmed Gaafar AG, Zakaria MY. Design and Synthesis of Newly Synthesized Acrylamide Derivatives as Potential Chemotherapeutic Agents against MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cell Line Lodged on PEGylated Bilosomal Nano-Vesicles for Improving Cytotoxic Activity

Cancer is a multifaceted disease. With the development of multi drug resistance, the need for the arousal of novel targets in order to avoid these drawbacks increased. A new series of acrylamide derivatives was synthesized from starting material 4-(furan-2-ylmethylene)-2-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)oxazol-5(4H)–one (1), and they are evaluated for their inhibitory activity against β-tubulin polymerization. The target molecules 2–5 d were screened for their cytotoxic activity against breast cancer MCF-7 cell line. The results of cytotoxicity screening revealed that compounds 4e and 5d showed good cytotoxic profile against MCF-7 cells. Compounds 4e produced significant reduction in cellular tubulin with excellent β-tubulin polymerization inhibition activity. In addition, compound 4e exhibited cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 cells by cell cycle arrest at pre-G1 and G2/M phases, as shown by DNA flow cytometry assay. Aiming to enhance the limited aqueous solubility and, hence, poor oral bioavailability of the prepared lead acrylamide molecule, 4e-charged PEGylated bilosomes were successfully fabricated via thin film hydration techniques as an attempt to improve these pitfalls. 2³ full factorial designs were manipulated to examine the influence of formulation variables: types of bile salt including either sodium deoxy cholate (SDC) or sodium tauro cholate (STC), amount of bile salt (15 mg or 30 mg) and amount of DSPE–mPEG-2000 amount (25 mg or 50 mg) on the characteristics of the nanosystem. The F7 formula of entrapment efficiency (E.E% = 100 ± 5.6%), particle size (PS = 280.3 ± 15.4 nm) and zeta potential (ZP = −22.5 ± 3.4 mv) was picked as an optimum formula with a desirability value of 0.868. Moreover, prominent enhancement was observed at the compound’s cytotoxic activity (IC₅₀ = 0.75 ± 0.03 µM) instead of (IC₅₀ = 2.11 ± 0.19 µM) for the unformulated 4e after being included in the nano-PEGylated bilosomal system.

Evaluation of Synthetic 2,4-Disubstituted-benzo[g]quinoxaline Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents

A new series of 2,4-disubstituted benzo[g]quinoxaline molecules have been synthesized, using naphthalene-2,3-diamine and 1,4-dibromonaphthalene-2,3-diamine as the key starting materials. The structures of the new compounds were confirmed by spectral data along with elemental microanalyses. The cytotoxic activity of all synthesized benzo[g]quinoxaline derivatives was assessed in vitro against the breast MCF-7 cancer cell line. The tested molecules revealed good cytotoxicity toward the breast MCF-7 cancer cell line, especially compound 3. The results of topoisomerase IIβ inhibition assay revealed that compound 3 exhibits potent inhibitory activity in submicromolar concentration. Additionally, compound 3 was found to cause pre-G1 apoptosis, and slightly increase the cell population at G1 and S phases of the cell cycle profile in MCF-7 cells. Finally, compound 3 induces apoptosis via Bax activation and downregulation of Bcl2, as revealed by ELISA assay.

Thiazole Ring-A Biologically Active Scaffold

BACKGROUND

Thiazole is a good pharmacophore nucleus due to its various pharmaceutical applications. Its derivatives have a wide range of biological activities such as antioxidant, analgesic, and antimicrobial including antibacterial, antifungal, antimalarial, anticancer, antiallergic, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, and antipsychotic. Indeed, the thiazole scaffold is contained in more than 18 FDA-approved drugs as well as in numerous experimental drugs.

OBJECTIVE

To summarize recent literature on the biological activities of thiazole ring-containing compounds Methods: A literature survey regarding the topics from the year 2015 up to now was carried out. Older publications were not included, since they were previously analyzed in available peer reviews.

RESULTS

Nearly 124 research articles were found, critically analyzed, and arranged regarding the synthesis and biological activities of thiazoles derivatives in the last 5 years.

Synthesis, molecular modeling and biological evaluation of new benzo[4,5]thieno[3,2-b]pyran derivatives as topoisomerase I-DNA binary complex poisons

A series of new benzo[b]thiophenes 2a-f and benzo[4,5]thieno[3,2-b]pyran derivatives 3a-f and 4a-f were synthesized and their structures were confirmed by elemental analyses and spectral data. All synthesized compounds were evaluated by the National Cancer Institute (NCI, USA) against 60 human tumor cell lines. Compounds 3a-f and 4a-f showed potent cytotoxic effects in one dose assay with mean growth inhibition ranging from 62% to 80%. Six compounds 3a, 3d, 3e, 3f, 4d and 4e were selected by NCI, USA for five dose evaluation against 60 human tumor cell lines. Compounds 3a, 3d, 3e and 3f exhibited very potent and broad spectrum cytotoxicity against almost all cancer cell lines with mean concentration that yield 50% growth inhibition (MG-MID GI₅₀) of 0.1-0.58 µM and mean concentration that produce 100% growth inhibition (MG-MID TGI) of 6.03-10.00 µM. Compounds 4d and 4e exhibited very potent and selective cytotoxic activity against MDA-MB-435 subpanel (melanoma cancer) with GI₅₀ of 0.45 µM and 0.59 µM, respectively. The mechanism of antiproliferative activity was determined for the most active compounds 3a, 3d, 3e, 3f, 4d, and 4evia measuring their half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) against topoisomerase I enzyme at different concentrations. Compounds 3a and 3e exhibited excellent activity compared with reference drugs with IC₅₀ of 0.295 µM and 0.219 µM, respectively. Plasmid DNA nicking assay verified that these compounds are topoisomerase I poisons not suppressors. The active compound 3e induced a significant disruption in the cell cycle profile parallel to its effect on apoptosis induction.

Synthesis of N-2(5H)-furanonyl sulfonyl hydrazone derivatives and their biological evaluation in vitro and in vivo activity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells

A series of (E)-N-2(5H)-furanonyl sulfonyl hydrazone derivatives have been rationally designed and efficiently synthesized by one-pot reaction with good yields for the first time. This green approach with wide substrate range and good selectivity can be achieved at room temperature in a short time in the presence of metal-free catalyst. The cytotoxic activities against three human cancer cell lines of all newly obtained compounds have been evaluated by MTT assay. Among them, compound 5 k exhibits high cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 human breast cancer cells with an IC₅₀ value of 14.35 μM. The cytotoxic mechanism may involve G2/M phase arrest pathway, which is probably caused by activating DNA damage. Comet test and immunofluorescence results show that compound 5 k can induce DNA damage in time- and dose-dependent manner. Importantly, 5 k also can effectively inhibit the proliferation of MCF-7 cells and angiogenesis in the zebrafish xenograft model. It is potential to further develop N-2(5H)-furanonyl sulfonyl hydrazone derivatives as potent drugs for breast cancer treatment with higher cytotoxic activity by modifying the structure of the compound.

Design, synthesis, and cytotoxicity screening of new synthesized imidazolidine-2-thiones as VEGFR-2 enzyme inhibitors

A series of imidazolin-2-thione derivatives was synthesized and structurally confirmed through the use of different spectroscopic techniques such as infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectrometry along with elemental analyses. The breast cancer cell line MCF-7 was utilized in the evaluation of the cytotoxic activity of the prepared molecules. The tested molecules 3 and 7 exhibited the best results on MCF-7 cells, with mean IC₅₀ values of 3.26 and 4.31 µM, respectively. The results of the VEGFR-2 assay indicated that compounds 3 and 7 displayed a good inhibition of the VEGFR-2 kinase enzyme. Additionally, DNA flow cytometry of compounds 3 and 7 showed cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase, cell apoptosis, and marked DNA fragmentation in MCF-7 cells. Finally, compounds 3 and 7 were proved to upregulate the activation of effector caspase-3/7, as presented by the caspase-3/7 green flow cytometry assay.

The different modes of chiral [1,2,3]triazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazines: crystal packing, conformation investigation and cellular activity

The crystal structures of four new chiral [1,2,3]triazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazines are described, namely, ethyl 5'-benzoyl-5'H,7'H-spiro[cyclohexane-1,6'-[1,2,3]triazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazine]-3'-carboxylate, C₁₉H₂₂N₄O₃S, ethyl 5'-(4-methoxybenzoyl)-5'H,7'H-spiro[cyclohexane-1,6'-[1,2,3]triazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazine]-3'-carboxylate, C₂₀H₂₄N₄O₄S, ethyl 6,6-dimethyl-5-(4-methylbenzoyl)-6,7-dihydro-5H-[1,2,3]triazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazine-3-carboxylate, C₁₇H₂₀N₄O₃S, and ethyl 5-benzoyl-6-(4-methoxyphenyl)-6,7-dihydro-5H-[1,2,3]triazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazine-3-carboxylate, C₂₁H₂₀N₄O₄S. The crystallographic data and cell activities of these four compounds and of the structures of three previously reported similar compounds, namely, ethyl 5'-(4-methylbenzoyl)-5'H,7'H-spiro[cyclopentane-1,6'-[1,2,3]triazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazine]-3'-carboxylate, C₁₉H₂₂N₄O₃S, ethyl 5'-(4-methoxybenzoyl)-5'H,7'H-spiro[cyclopentane-1,6'-[1,2,3]triazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazine]-3'-carboxylate, C₁₉H₂₂N₄O₄S, and ethyl 6-methyl-5-(4-methylbenzoyl)-6-phenyl-6,7-dihydro-5H-[1,2,3]triazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazine-3-carboxylate, C₂₂H₂₂N₄O₃S, are contrasted and compared. For both crystallization and an MTT assay, racemic mixtures of the corresponding [1,2,3]triazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazines were used. The main manner of molecular packing in these compounds is the organization of either enantiomeric pairs or dimers. In both cases, the formation of two three-centre hydrogen bonds can be detected resulting from intramolecular N-H...O and intermolecular N-H...O or N-H...N interactions. Molecules of different enantiomeric forms can also form chains through N-H...O hydrogen bonds or form layers between which only weak hydrophobic contacts exist. Unlike other [1,2,3]triazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazines, ethyl 5'-benzoyl-5'H,7'H-spiro[cyclohexane-1,6'-[1,2,3]triazolo[5,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazine]-3'-carboxylate contains molecules of only the (R)-enantiomer; moreover, the N-H group does not participate in any significant intermolecular interactions. Molecular mechanics methods (force field OPLS3e) and the DFT B3LYP/6-31G+(d,p) method show that the compound forming enantiomeric pairs via weak N-H...N hydrogen bonds is subject to greater distortion of the geometry under the influence of the intermolecular interactions in the crystal. For intramolecular N-H...O and S...O interactions, an analysis of the noncovalent interactions (NCIs) was carried out. The cellular activities of the compounds were tested by evaluating their antiproliferative effect against two normal human cell lines and two cancer cell lines in terms of half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀). Some derivatives have been found to be very effective in inhibiting the growth of Hela cells at nanomolar and submicromolar concentrations with minimal cytotoxicity in relation to normal cells.

Design, synthesis, and cytotoxic screening of novel azole derivatives on hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2 Cells)

Novel azole derivatives 3-30 were designed, synthesized, and screened for their antitumor activity on HepG2 cell line. The cytotoxicity screening demonstrated that imidazolone 8 and triazoles 25 and 29 exhibited more potent cytotoxic activities by 1.21-, 4.75-, and 1.8-fold compared to Sorafenib (SOR). Furthermore, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) enzyme inhibition assay declared that compounds 25 and 29 had inhibitory activity at the nanomolar concentration. Moreover, the tested compounds exhibited good β-tubulin (TUB) polymerization inhibition percentages. In addition, DNA flow cytometry analysis over HepG2 cells indicated that triazoles 25 and 29 demonstrated arrest at G₁ and G₂/M phase of the cell cycle and induced apoptotic activity by increasing sub-G₁ phase. Finally, mechanistic studies of the proapoptotic activities of compounds 8, 10, 11, 25, and 29 indicated that they induced upregulation of P53, Fas/Fas-ligand, and BAX/BCL-2 ratio expression that resulted in increasing the active caspase 3/7 percentages and trigger apoptosis.

Tubulin inhibitors: Discovery of a new scaffold targeting extra-binding residues within the colchicine site through anchoring substituents properly adapted to their pocket by a semi-flexible linker

Bis-hydrazides 13a-h were designed and synthesized as potential tubulin inhibitors selectively targeting the colchicine site between α- and β-tubulin subunits. The newly designed ring-B substituents were assisted at their ends by 'anchor groups' which are expected to exert binding interaction(s) with new additional amino acid residues in the colchicine site (beyond those amino acids previously reported to interact with reference inhibitors as CA-4 and colchicine). Conformational flexibility of bis-hydrazide linker assisted these 'extra-binding' properties through reliving ligands' strains in the final ligand-receptor complexes. Compound 13f displayed the most promising computational and biological study results in the series: MM/GBSA binding energy of -62.362 kcal/mol (extra-binding to Arg α:221, Thr β:353 & Lys β:254); 34% NCI-H522 cells' death (at 10 µM), IC₅₀ = 0.073 µM (MTT assay); significant cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase; 11.6% preG1 apoptosis induction and 83.1% in vitro tubulin inhibition (at concentration = IC₅₀). Future researchers in bis-hydrazide tubulin inhibitors are advised to consider the 2-chloro-N-(4-substituted-phenyl)acetamide derivatives as compound 13f due to extra-binding properties of their ring B.

In Vitro Antitumor Evaluation of Some Hybrid Molecules Containing Coumarin and Quinolinone Moieties

Background:

Hybrid molecules furnished by merging two or more pharmacophores is an emerging concept in the field of medicinal chemistry and drug discovery. Currently, coumarin hybrids have attracted the keen attention of researchers to discover their therapeutic capability against cancer.

Objective:

The present study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antitumor activity of a new series of hybrid molecules containing coumarin and quinolinone moieties 4 and 5 against four cancer cell lines.

Materials and Methods:

A new series of hybrid molecules containing coumarin and quinolinone moieties, 4a-c and 5a-c, were synthesized and screened for their cytotoxicity against prostate PC-3, breast MCF-7, colon HCT- 116 and liver HepG2 cancer cell lines as well as normal breast Hs-371 T.

Results:

All the synthesized compounds were assessed for their in vitro antiproliferative activity against four cancer cell lines and several compounds were found to be active. Further in vitro cell cycle study of compounds 4a and 5a revealed MCF-7 cells arrest at G2 /M phase of the cell cycle profile and induction apoptosis at pre-G1 phase. The apoptosis-inducing activity was evidenced by up-regulation of Bax protein together with the downregulation of the expression of Bcl-2 protein. The mechanism of cytotoxic activity of compounds 4a and 5a correlated to its topoisomerase II inhibitory activity.

Conclusion:

Hybrid molecules containing coumarin and quinolinone moieties represents a scaffold for further optimization to obtain promising anticancer agents.

Design, Synthesis, Anti-Proliferative Evaluation and Cell Cycle Analysis of Hybrid 2-Quinolones

Background:

Quinolones are a significant group of nitrogen heterocyclic compounds that exist in therapeutic agents, alkaloids, and synthetic small molecules that have important biological activities. A wide range of quinolones have been used as antituberculosis, antibacterial, anti-malarial, antifungal, anticonvulsant, anticancer agents and urease inhibitors.

Methods:

Ethyl 3,3-disubstituted-2-cyano propionates containing hybride quinolones derivatives were synthesized by the reaction of 1-amino-7-hydroxy-4-methylquinolin-2(1H)-one and its dibromo derivative with α, β-unsaturated carbonyl in ethanol.

Results:

A novel series of hybrid 2-quinolone derivatives was designed and synthesized. The compounds structures were confirmed using different spectroscopic methods and elemental analysis. The cytotoxic activities of all the compounds were assessed against HepG2 cell line in comparison with doxorubicin as a standard drug.

Conclusion:

Most compounds revealed superior anti-proliferative activity than the standard. Compound 4b, is the most active compound (IC50 = 0.39mM) compared with doxorubicin (IC50 = 9.23mM). DNA flow cytometric analysis of compound 4b showed cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase with a concomitant increase of cells in apoptotic phase. Dual annexin-V/ propidium iodide staining assay of compound 4b revealed that the selected candidate increased the apoptosis of HepG-2 cells more than control.

Anticancer activity of some new series of 2-(substituted)amino-1,3-thiazole derivatives

A series of thiazole derivatives were synthesized and structurally elucidated by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, mass and elemental analyses. The prepared compounds were screened for their cytotoxic activity against Leukemia HL-60 cell line. Compound 4b was considered as the most promising antitumor candidate among the tested compounds. Mechanism of action of compound 4b evaluated by flow cytometric assay revealed cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase and pre-G1 apoptosis. The ratio of apoptosis was also determined. Moreover, compound 4b increased the concentration of caspase 3 by 4 fold more than untreated control.

Design, Synthesis, and Screening of 5-Aryl-3-(2-(pyrrolyl)thiophenyl)-1,2,4-oxadiazoles as Potential Antitumor Molecules on Breast Cancer MCF-7 Cell Line

The work reported the design and cytotoxic screening of synthetic small molecules: carbonitriles 3a-c, carboximidamides 4a-c, and oxadiazoles 5-19 as antitumor molecules. Molecules 4c, 9, 12, and 14 show promising cytotoxicity profiles against two cell lines higher than prodigiosin (PG). The results of topoisomerase enzyme inhibition assay show that carboximidamide 4c and oxadiazole 14 display potent inhibitory activity in nano-molar concentration higher than PG. In addition, carboximidamide 4c and oxadiazoles 9, 12, and 14 exhibit antiproliferative activities over MCF-7 cells by cell cycle arrest at G₁ phase and apoptosis inducing activity by increasing cell population percentages at pre G₁ and G₂/M phases as shown by DNA-flow cytometry assay and annexin V analysis. Moreover, measurement of p53 and cell death mediators, show that carboximidamide 4c and oxadiazoles 9, 12, and 14 significantly up-regulate p53, Puma and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio levels. Subsequently, pro-apoptotic activities are confirmed by active caspase 3/7 percentages green fluorescence assay.

Rotundic acid enhances the impact of radiological toxicity on MCF-7 cells through the ATM/p53 pathway

Although radiation therapy is a powerful anticancer modality, radiation- induced stress response and gene expression with adaptive resistance may severely compromise the effectiveness of radiation. The function of rotundic acid (RA) on inducing apoptosis in the human breast cancer cell line MCF-7 has been investigated in a previous study. In the present study, the combined effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy on reducing side effects was examined. The results of an MTT assay revealed that radiation (0.5, 2 and 10 Gy) effectively inhibit MCF-7 cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, consistent with the effects of RA (2, 5 and 12.5 µM). Interestingly, a lower dose of radiation (1 Gy) combined with RA (5 µM) exhibited a greater inhibition efficiency compared with a high dose of radiation alone. Flow cytometry revealed that radiation combined with RA induced the apoptosis of MCF-7 cells. Using western blotting, it was demonstrated that radiation induced the expression of ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and p53 protein, and that RA enhanced this effect. On examining the potential underlying mechanism, it was revealed that radiation and RA combined induce Bcl-2-associated X protein expression and cell apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. An ATM inhibitor was able to restore the effect of radiation and RA on inducing MCF-7 cell apoptosis. These results suggest that the ATM/p53 pathway directly participates in radiation and RA-induced apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. RA has the potential for development as a novel drug for the treatment of human breast cancer combined with radiation therapy, given that the combined side effects are reduced.