Dissymmetric pyridyl-substituted 3,5-bis(arylidene)-4-piperidones as anti-hepatoma agents by inhibiting NF-κB pathway activation

Discovery of anti-inflammatory agents from 3, 4-dihydronaphthalene-1(2H)-one derivatives by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation

NLRP3 inflammatory vesicles are a polymer of cellular innate immunity composed of a pair of proteins. The continuous activation of NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammatory vesicles induces the occurrence and enhancement of inflammatory response. In this study, a series of 3, 4-dihydronaphthalene-1(2H)-one derivatives (DHNs, 6a-u, 7a-e, 8a-n) were synthesized and characterized by NMR and HRMS. We evaluated the cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of all compounds in vitro, and selected 7a substituted by 7-Br in A-ring and 2-pyridylaldehyde in C-ring as effective lead compounds. Specifically, 7a can block the assembly and activation of NLRP3 inflammasome by down-regulating the expression of NLPR3 and apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC), and inhibiting the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and other inflammatory mediators. In addition, 7a inhibits the phosphorylation of inhibitor kappa B alpha (IκBα) and NF-κB/p65 and the nuclear translocation of p65, thereby inhibiting nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling. Molecular docking analysis confirmed that 7a could reasonably bind the active sites of NLRP3, ASC and p65 proteins. Therefore, 7a is predicted as a potential NLRP3 inflammatory vesicle inhibitor and deserves further research and development.

Discovery of anti-neuroinflammatory agents from 1,4,5,6-tetrahydrobenzo[2,3]oxepino[4,5-d]pyrimidin-2-amine derivatives by regulating microglia polarization

Neuroinflammation mediated by microglia activation leads to various neurodegenerative and neurological disorders. In order to develop more and better options for this disorders, a series of 3,4-dihydrobenzo[b]oxepin-5(2H)-one derivatives (BZPs, 6-19) and novel 1,4,5,6-tetrahydrobenzo[2,3]oxepino[4,5-d]pyrimidin-2-amine derivatives (BPMs, 20-33) were synthesized and screened the anti-neuroinflamamtion effects. 3,5-bis-trifluoromethylphenyl-substituted BPM 29 showed more potent anti-neuroinflammatory activity and no toxicity to BV2 microglia cells in vitro. 29 significantly reduced the number of M1 phenotype of microglia cells, but significantly increased the number of M2 phenotype of microglia cells in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV2 microglia cells. 29 significantly reduced the secretion of inflammatory cytokines (IL-18, IL-1β, TNF-α), but increased the secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10) from LPS-induced BV2 microglia cells. Also, 29 inhibited the NOD-like receptor NLRP3 inflammasome formation, and down-regulated the expression of M2 isoform of pyruvate kinase in LPS-induced BV2 microglia cells. In vivo, 29 reduced the neuroinflammation in cuprizone-induced inflammatory and demyelinating mice by reducing the expression of inducible nitric-oxide synthase, but increased the expression of CD206. Taken together, 29 might be a prospective anti-neuroinflammatory compound for neuroinflammatory and demyelinating disease by alleviating microglia activation.

Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with curcumin analog 3,5-bis(arylidene)-4-piperidone

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disease. Curcumin can inhibit NF-κB and reduce the expression of inflammation-related genes. Aim: To evaluate the potential development of 6d in the clinical treatment of inflammatory diseases such as RA. Methods: Using a skeleton fusion strategy to synthesize curcumin analogues for 6d. This work evaluates anti-inflammatory activity by conducting anti-arthritis experiments (adjuvant-induced RA models) on rats. Western blot and ELISA were used to detect the expression of inflammatory-related proteins and cytokines. Molecular docking analysis confirmed the binding effect of 6d with active sites. Conclusion: 6d inhibits NF-κB has a protective effect on arthritis caused by RA.

Synthesis of 1-(4-(Dimethylamino)phenyl)-3,4-diphenyl-1H-pyrrole-2,5-dione Analogues and their Anti-inflammatory Activities in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced BV2 Cells

A series of thalidomide analogues, where the fused benzene ring in the phthalimide moiety was converted into two separated diphenyl rings in maleimide moiety and N-aminoglutarimide moiety was replaced by substituted phenyl moiety, were synthesized and evaluated for their NO inhibitory activities on BV2 cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Among the synthesized compounds, the dimethylaminophenyl analogue 1s (IC₅₀ = 7.1 μM) showed significantly higher inhibitory activity than the glutarimide analogue 1a (IC₅₀ > 50 μM) and suppressed NO production dose-dependently without cytotoxicity. In addition, 1s inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) by blocking nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and p38 MAPK pathways. These results demonstrated that 1s showed good anti-inflammatory activity and could become a leading compound for the treatment of neuroinflammatory diseases.

1,4,5,6,7,8‑Hexahydropyrido[4,3‑d]pyrimidine inhibits HepG2 cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and induces apoptosis through the upregulation of miR‑26b‑5p by targeting CDK8

1,4,5,6,7,8-Hexahydropyrido[4,3-d]pyrimidine (PPM) promotes apoptosis of HepG2 cells and serves a role in tumor suppression. However, the role of microRNA (miRNA) regulation in initiating apoptosis remains unclear. Therefore, the present study performed reverse transcription-quantitative PCR to investigate the association between PPM and miRNA, which demonstrated that PPM upregulated the expression of miR-26b-5p. Wound healing and Transwell assays showed that PPM inhibited the migration and invasion of HepG2 cells, and EdU staining experiments showed that PPM inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 cells. Transfection with miR-26b-5p inhibitor reversed the effects of PPM on HepG2 cells. Flow cytometry results showed that PPM promoted apoptosis of HepG2 cells by upregulating miRNA (miR)-26b-5p, and Western blotting results showed that PPM promoted the expression of apoptosis-associated protein Bax and inhibited the expression of Bcl-2 by upregulating miR-26b-5p. Using a proteomic approach combined with bioinformatics analysis, CDK8 was identified as a potential target of miR-26b-5p and was downregulated by miR-26b-5p overexpression. However, PPM induced HepG2 cell cycle arrest without the involvement of miR-26b-5p. Western blotting results showed that PPM upregulation of miR-26b-5p suppresses NF-κB/p65 signaling pathway in HepG2 cells by targeting of CDK8. The present results suggested that miR-26b-5p may function as a target gene of PPM and may serve a role in hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.

Anti-inflammatory activity of fluorine-substituted benzo[h]quinazoline-2-amine derivatives as NF-κB inhibitors

Excessive inflammation can cause loss of tissue or organ function, leading to a number of chronic diseases and sometimes even death. Traditional treatment strategies for inflammation have mainly involved steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, but both have increasingly prominent side effects. Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) inhibitors with anti-inflammatory properties and low toxicity are a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. To obtain novel NF-κB inhibitors, a series of 3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one derivatives (DHNs 6a-s), 1,4,5,6-tetrahydrobenzo[h]quinazolin-2-amine derivatives (BQAs 7a-c) and 5,6-dihydrobenzo[h]quinazolin-2-amine derivatives (BQAs 8a-p) were designed and synthesized, and characterized by NMR and HRMS. By evaluating toxicity and anti-inflammatory properties, fluorine-substituted 8c showed more potential anti-inflammatory activity and lower toxicity. 8c significantly reduced the phosphorylation of IκBα and p65, thereby inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway. In addition, 8c markedly decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and downregulated the expression of NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC) and cysteine aspartate protein hydrolase-1 (caspase-1). Therefore, compound 8c is expected to be a candidate compound for NF-κB inhibition and deserves further research and development.

Crystal structure of (E)-7-methoxy-2-(4-methoxy-2-(trifluoromethyl)benzylidene)-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one, C20H17F3O3

C20H17F3O3, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 9.0684(4) Å, b = 13.1942(6) Å, c = 13.7883(7) Å, β = 96.250(5)°, V = 1639.97(13) Å3, Z = 4, R gt (F) = 0.0415, wR ref (F 2) = 0.1125, T = 100 K.

Crystal structure of E-7-fluoro-2-(4-methoxy-3-(trifluoromethyl)benzylidene)-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one, C19H14F4O2

C19H14F4O2, triclinic, P 1 ‾ $P\overline{1}$ (no. 2), a = 8.3798(6) Å, b = 9.2019(7) Å, c = 10.4504(7) Å, α = 77.941(6)°, β = 85.712(6) , γ = 79.078(6)°, V = 773.25(10) Å3, Z = 2, R gt (F) = 0.0458, wR ref (F 2) = 0.1165, T = 100 K.

Synthesis of 1-(5-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-4-methyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)-2-morpholinoethane-1,2-dione analogues and their inhibitory activities with reduced cytotoxicity in lipopolysaccharide-induced BV2 cells

A series of rimonabant analogues, where the N-aminopiperidine moiety was replaced by various amines and an additional carbonyl group, were synthesized and their inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production was evaluated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV2 microglial cells. Among the synthesized compounds, the morpholine analogue 7y (IC₅₀ = 4.71 ± 0.11 μM) showed significantly higher inhibitory activity than rimonabant (IC₅₀ = 16.17 ± 0.56 μM), and suppressed NO production dose-dependently without cytotoxicity. In addition, 7y inhibited the expression of iNOS, COX-2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines and attenuated LPS-induced activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and ERK MAPK phosphorylation in BV2 cells. These results demonstrated that 7y exerted anti-inflammatory effects by ERK pathway in BV2 cells, which can be used for the prevention and treatment of neuroinflammatory diseases.

Novel Unsymmetric 3,5-Bis(benzylidene)-4-piperidones That Display Tumor-Selective Toxicity

Two series of novel unsymmetrical 3,5-bis(benzylidene)-4 piperidones 2a-f and 3a-e were designed as candidate antineoplastic agents. These compounds display potent cytotoxicity towards two colon cancers, as well as several oral squamous cell carcinomas. These compounds are less toxic to various non-malignant cells giving rise to large selectivity index (SI) figures. Many of the compounds are also cytotoxic towards CEM lymphoma and HL-60 leukemia cells. Representative compounds induced apoptotic cell death characterized by caspase-3 activation and subG1 accumulation in some OSCC cells, as well as the depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane potential in CEM cells. A further line of inquiry was directed to finding if the SI values are correlated with the atomic charges on the olefinic carbon atoms. The potential of these compounds as antineoplastic agents was enhanced by an ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) evaluation of five lead molecules, which revealed no violations.

Synthesis and bio-properties of 4-piperidone containing compounds as curcumin mimics

3,5-Diyliden-4-piperidone scaffold are considered as curcumin mimic exhibiting diverse bio-properties.

Discovery of anti-hepatoma agents from 1,4,5,6,7,8-hexahydropyrido[4,3-d]pyrimidine by inhibiting PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway activation

In order to obtain new anti-hepatoma drugs with low toxicity, some 1,4,5,6,7,8-hexahydropyrido[4,3-d]pyrimidines (PPMs, 4a-t) were synthesized in this study. Many of them showed significant anti-hepatoma effects against HCC cells and low toxicity toward HHL-5 cells. Combined with their anti-hepatoma activity and toxicity, 4-CF₃-substituted 4k was selected as an effective lead compound. Preliminary mechanistic studies revealed that 4k could up-regulate the expression levels of Bax and caspase-3 proteins, down-regulate the expression levels of Bcl-2 protein, promote significant apoptosis of HepG2, and block cells in G2-M phase to prevent cells from completing mitosis. Also, 4k could significantly inhibit the activation of PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway by blocking the phosphorylation of PI3K, AKT, NF-κB/p65 and IFN-γ-induced nuclear transport. Docking analysis showed that 4k could reasonably bind to the active sites of Bcl-2, NF-κB/p65, PI3K and AKT. This result suggested that 4k could be used as a new type of NF-κB inhibitor, which provides a scientific basis for further research into the treatment of hepatoma.

Crystal structure of (E)-7-fluoro-2-(3-fluorobenzylidene)-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one, C17H12F2O1

C17H12F2O1, monoclinic, P 1 ‾ $P\overline{1}$ (no. 2), a = 7.3832(8) Å, b = 8.6467(9) Å, c = 11.3278(11) Å, α = 87.633(8)°, β = 88.022(8)°, γ = 65.364(10)°, V = 654.88(13) Å3, Z = 2, R gt (F) = 0.0369, wR ref (F 2) = 0.0987, T = 293(2) K.

Crystal structure of (E)-7-hydroxy-2-((6-methoxypyridin-3-yl)methylene)-3, 4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one, C17H15NO3

C17H15NO3, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 4.3970(3) Å, b = 13.8942(8) Å, c = 22.0484(14) Å, β = 91.099(6)°, V = 1346.75(15), Z = 4, R gt (F) = 0.0412, wR ref (F 2) = 0.1003, T = 150 K.

Small molecule compounds with good anti-inflammatory activity reported in the literature from 01/2009 to 05/2021: a review

Inflammation and disease are closely related. Inflammation can induce various diseases, and diseases can promote inflammatory response, and two possibly induces each other in a bidirectional loop. Inflammation is usually treated using synthetic anti-inflammatory drugs which are associated with several adverse effects hence are not safe for long-term use. Therefore, there is need for anti-inflammatory drugs which are not only effective but also safe. Several researchers have devoted to the research and development of effective anti-inflammatory drugs with little or no side effects. In this review, we studied some small molecules with reported anti-inflammatory activities and hence potential sources of anti-inflammatory agents. The information was retrieved from relevant studies published between January 2019 and May, 2021 for review. This review study was aimed to provide relevant information towards the design and development of effective and safe anti-inflammation agents.

Crystal structure and anti-inflammatory activity of (E)-7-fluoro-2-((5-methoxypyridin-3-yl)methylene)-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one, C17H14FNO2

C17H14FNO2, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 15.5754(12) Å, b = 7.4828(6) Å, c = 23.0981(18) Å, β = 90.797(7)°, V = 2691.8(4) Å3, Z = 8, R gt (F) = 0.0442, wR ref (F 2) = 0.1096, T = 100(1)° K.

Trifluoromethyl-substituted 3,5-bis(arylidene)-4-piperidones as potential anti-hepatoma and anti-inflammation agents by inhibiting NF-кB activation

Some methoxy-, hydroxyl-, pyridyl-, or fluoro-substituted 3,5-bis(arylidene)-4-piperidones (BAPs) could reduce inflammation and promote hepatoma cell apoptosis by inhibiting activation of NF-κB, especially after introduction of trifluoromethyl. Herein, a series of trifluoromethyl-substituted BAPs (4-30) were synthesised and the biological activities were evaluated. We successfully found the most potential 16, which contains three trifluoromethyl substituents and exhibits the best anti-tumour and anti-inflammatory activities. Preliminary mechanism research revealed that 16 could promote HepG2 cell apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner by down-regulating the expression of Bcl-2 and up-regulating the expression of Bax, C-caspase-3. Meanwhile, 16 inhibited activation of NF-κB by directly inhibiting the phosphorylation of p65 and IκBα induced by LPS, together with indirectly inhibiting MAPK pathway, thereby exhibiting both anti-hepatoma and anti-inflammatory activities. Molecular docking confirmed that 16 could bind to the active sites of Bcl-2, p65, and p38 reasonably. The above results suggested that 16 has enormous potential to be developed as a multifunctional agent for the clinical treatment of liver cancers and inflammatory diseases.

Crystal structure of (E)-7-fluoro-2-((6-methoxypyridin-3-yl)methylene)-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one, C17H14FNO2

C17H14FNO2, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 15), a = 7.3840(6) Å, b = 10.9208(8) Å, c = 16.7006(15) Å, β = 101.032(9)°, V = 1321.84(19) Å3, Z = 4, R gt (F) = 0.0589, wR ref (F 2) = 0.1561, T = 100.00(18) K.

Potential anti-neuroinflammatory NF-кB inhibitors based on 3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one derivatives

Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-кB) inhibition represents a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of neuroinflammatory diseases. In this study, a series of 3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one (DHN; 6a-n, 7a-c) derivatives were synthesised and characterised by NMR and HRMS. We assessed the toxicity and anti-neuroinflammatory properties of these compounds and found that 6m showed the greatest anti-neuroinflammatory properties, with relatively low toxicity. Specifically, 6m significantly reduced reactive oxygen species production, down-regulated the expression of NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC), and caspase-1 and prevented lipopolysaccharide-stimulated BV2 microglia cells polarisation towards an M1 phenotype. Furthermore, 6m significantly decreased IκBα and NF-кB p65 phosphorylation, thus inhibiting the NF-кB signalling pathway. This suggests that 6m may be explored as a functional anti-neuroinflammatory agent for the treatment of inflammatory diseases in the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, stroke and spinal cord injury.

Intracellular ethanol-mediated oxidation and apoptosis in HepG2/CYP2E1 cells impaired by two active peptides from seahorse (Hippocampus kuda bleeler) protein hydrolysates via the Nrf2/HO-1 and akt pathways

Seahorse (Hippocampus kuda Bleeler) are representative marine species in aquaculture, with special value of medicine and food. In this study, the protective effects of two peptides from seahorse hydrolysates (SHP-1 and SHP-2) against ethanol-mediated oxidative stress in HepG2/CYP2E1 cells were investigated. Firstly, SHP-1 and SHP-2 presented no cytotoxicity. Compared with the ethanol-treated groups, SHP-1 and SHP-2 increased cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner. Secondly, SHP-1 and SHP-2 markedly reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) activity, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels and remarkably enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) activities. SHP-1 and SHP-2 also down-regulated the expressions of GGT, bax, c-caspase-8/-9/-3, p-Akt, p-IκB-α, p-p65, p-ERK, and p-p38 but up-regulated SOD, GSH, NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and bcl-2 levels, as revealed by Western blot analysis. Moreover, SHP-1 and SHP-2 increased the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reduced DNA damage, and suppressed the nuclear translocation of p65. These results suggest that two peptides from seahorse hydrolysates can be considered a potential functional biomaterial and further improve the use value of seahorse in aquaculture.

Crystal structure of (E)-2-(3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzylidene)-7-methoxy-3,4-dihydronaphthalen- 1(2H)-one, C20H14F6O2

C 20 H 14 F 6 O 2 ${\text{C}}_{20}{\text{H}}_{14}{\text{F}}_{6}{\text{O}}_{2}$ , monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 14.791(2) Å, b = 8.5303(9) Å, c = 15.531(3) Å, β = 115.474(19)°, V = 1769.1(5) Å3, Z = 4, R g t ${R}_{gt}$ (F) = 0.0574, w   R ref $w\,{R}_{\text{ref}}$ (F 2) = 0.1451, T = 100 K.

CCDC no.: 2016723

Crystal structure of (E)-2-(4-fluoro-3-(trifluoromethyl)benzylidene)-7-methoxy-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one, C19H14F4O2

C 19 H 14 F 4 O 2 ${\text{C}}_{19}{\text{H}}_{14}{\text{F}}_{4}{\text{O}}_{2}$ , triclinic, P 1 ‾ $P‾{1}$ (no. 2), a = 8.1539(7) Å, b = 8.8584(6) Å, c = 11.8025(9) Å, α = 73.186(7)°, β = 76.184(7)°, γ = 69.512(7)°, V = 755.39(11) Å3, Z = 2, R g t ${R}_{gt}$ (F) = 0.0436, w R ref $w{R}_{\text{ref}}$ (F 2) = 0.0965, T = 100 K.

Crystal structure of (E)-2-(4-fluoro-2-(trifluoromethyl)benzylidene)-7-methoxy-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one, C19H14F4O2

C19H14F4O2, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 17.1519(13) Å, b = 13.9810(8) Å, c = 15.2299(9) Å, β = 123.031(7)°, V = 3061.9(4) Å3, Z = 8, R gt (F) = 0.0410, wR ref (F 2) = 0.1010, T = 100(1) K.

Crystal structure of (E)-7-methoxy-2-((5-methoxypyridin-3-yl)methylene)-3,4- dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one, C18H17NO3

C18H17NO3, triclinic, P 1 ‾ $P‾{1}$ (no. 2), a = 7.3950(5) Å, b = 8.6697(5) Å, c = 11.6813(9) Å, α = 85.457(6)°, β = 76.712(6)°, γ = 82.759(5)°, V = 722.07(9) Å3, Z = 2, R gt (F) = 0.0502, wR ref (F 2) = 0.1342, T = 99.9(3) K.

Crystal structure of (3E,5E)-3,5-bis-4-methoxy-3-(trifluoromethyl)benzylidene)-1-methylpiperidin-4-one, C24H21F6NO3

C24H21F6NO3, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 16.6493(9) Å, b = 15.3005(8) Å, c = 8.8554(5) Å, β = 99.746(6)°, V = 2223.3(2) Å3, Z = 4, R gt (F) = 0.0444, wR ref (F 2) = 0.1094, T = 100 K.

Discovery of novel NF-кB inhibitor based on scaffold hopping: 1,4,5,6,7,8-hexahydropyrido[4,3-d]pyrimidine

NF-κB is a key signaling pathway molecule linking hepatoma and chronic inflammation. Inhibition of NF-κB activation can alleviate inflammation, and promote hepatoma cell apoptosis. In this study, a series of fluoro-substituted 1,4,5,6,7,8-hexahydropyrido[4,3-d]pyrimidines (PPMs, 31-57) were synthesized from 3,5-bis(arylidene)-4-piperidones (BAPs, 4-30) based on scaffold hopping. We successfully discovered the most potent 43 substituted by electron-withdrawing substitutes (3-F and 4-CF₃) exhibited less toxicity and higher anti-inflammatory activity. Preliminary mechanistic studies revealed that 43 induced dose-dependent cell apoptosis at cell and protein level, while inhibited NF-κB activation by suppressing LPS-induced phosphorylation levels of p65, IκBα and Akt, and by indirectly suppressing MAPK signaling, and by inhibiting the nuclear translocation of NF-κB induced by TNF-α or LPS. Docking analysis verified simulated 43 could reasonably bind to the active site of Bcl-2, p65 and p38 proteins. This compound, as a novel NF-κB inhibitor, also demonstrated both anti-inflammatory and anti-hepatoma activities, warranting its further development as a potential multifunctional agent for the clinical treatment of liver cancers and inflammatory diseases.

Crystal structure and anti-inflammatory activity of (3E,5E)-1-((4-chlorophenyl)sulfonyl)-3,5-bis(4-fluorobenzylidene)piperidin-4-one-dichloromethane (1/1), C26H20Cl3F2NO3S

C26H20Cl3F2NO3S, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 8.6281(7) Å, b = 11.3695(9) Å, c = 14.3529(11) Å, α = 68.166(7)°, β = 80.707(7)°, γ = 71.169(7)°, V = 1235.65(19) Å3, Z = 2, R gt(F) = 0.0564, wR ref(F 2) = 0.1376, T = 100.00(10) K.

Crystal structure and anti-inflammatory activity of (3E,5E)-3,5-bis(4-fluorobenzylidene)-1-((4-fluorophenyl)sulfonyl)piperidin-4-one-dichloromethane (1/1), C26H20Cl2F3NO3S

C26H20Cl2F3NO3S, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 8.5616(4) Å, b = 11.6052(6) Å, c = 14.1451(8) Å, α = 66.617(6)°, β = 82.391(4)°, γ = 69.072(4)°, V = 1204.85(12) Å3, Z = 2, R gt(F) = 0.0460, wR ref(F 2) = 0.1206, T = 100.00(10) K.

Crystal structure and anti-inflammatory activity of (3E,5E)-3,5-bis(2-fluorobenzylidene)-1-((4-fluorophenyl)sulfonyl)piperidin-4-one, C25H18F3NO3S

C25H18F3NO3S, orthorhombic, Pca21 (no. 29), a = 19.1142(7) Å, b = 11.6722(5) Å, c = 9.2390(3) Å, V = 2061.26(13) Å3, Z = 4, R gt(F) = 0.0422, wR ref(F 2) = 0.0974, T = 100.02(10) K.

Crystal structure and anti-inflammatory activity of (3E,5E)-1-((4-chlorophenyl)sulfonyl)-3-(pyridin-4-ylmethylene)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)benzylidene)piperidin-4-one, C25H18ClF3N2O3S

C25H18ClF3N2O3S, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 9.9087(5) Å, b = 21.7843(10) Å, c = 10.2512(6) Å, β = 94.749(5)°, V = 2205.2(2) Å3, Z = 4, R gt(F) = 0.0448, wR ref(F 2) = 0.1028, T = 100 K.

Crystal structure and anti-inflammatory activity of (3E,5E)-1-((4-bromophenyl)sulfonyl)-3-(pyridin-4-ylmethylene)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)benzylidene)piperidin-4-one, C25H18BrF3N2O3S

C25H18BrF3N2O3S, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 9.9295(11) Å, b = 21.755(2) Å, c = 10.2358(11) Å, β = 95.022(10)°, V = 2202.6(4) Å3, Z = 4, R gt(F) = 0.0373, wR ref(F 2) = 0.0795, T = 100(1) K.

Crystal structure of (3E,5E)-1-((4-fluorophenyl)sulfonyl)-3,5-bis(3-nitrobenzylidene)piperidin-4-one — dichloromethane (2/1), C51H38Cl2F2N6O14S2

C51H38Cl2F2N6O14S2, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 11.8987(6) Å, b = 14.0939(8) Å, c = 16.1915(9) Å, α = 67.590(5)°, β = 75.402(5)°, γ = 77.522(4)°, V = 2407.3(2) Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0584, wRref(F2) = 0.1645, T = 100.0(1) K.

Crystal structure and anti-inflammatory activity of (3E,5E)-3-(2-fluorobenzylidene)-1-((4-acetamidophenyl)sulfonyl)-5-(pyridin-3-ylmethylene)piperidin-4-one-methanol-hydrate (2/1/1), C53H50F2N6O10S2

C53H50F2N6O10S2, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 15.088(5) Å, b = 23.560(9) Å, c = 15.401(6) Å, β = 112.254(5)°, V = 5067(3) Å3, Z = 4, R gt(F) = 0.0509, wR ref(F 2) = 0.1336, T = 298(2) K.

Potential multifunctional agents with anti-hepatoma and anti-inflammation properties by inhibiting NF-кB activation

Inhibition of NF-κB signalling has been demonstrated as a therapeutic option in treating inflammatory diseases and cancers. Herein, we synthesized novel dissymmetric 3,5-bis(arylidene)-4-piperidones (BAPs, 83-102) and characterized fully. MTT and ELISA assay were performed to screen the anti-hepatoma and anti-inflammation properties. 96 showed the most potential bioactivity. 96 could promote HepG2 apoptosis through up-regulating the expression of C-Caspase-3 and Bax, down-regulating the expression of Bcl-2, while markedly inhibit LPS or TNF-α-induced activation of NF-κB through both inhibiting the phosphorylation of IκBα and p65, and preventing the p65 nuclear translocation to exhibit both anti-hepatoma and anti-inflammatory activities. Molecular docking verified that simulated 96 can effectively bond to the active site of Bcl-2 and NF-κB/p65 proteins. 96 inhibited xenografts growth by reducing the expression of TNF-α and Bcl-2 in the tumour tissue. This study suggested that 96 could be developed as a potential multifunctional agent for treatment of inflammatory diseases and cancers.

Synthesis, crystal structures and anti-inflammatory activity of fluorine-substituted 1,4,5,6-tetrahydrobenzo[h]quinazolin-2-amine derivatives

Two fluorine-substituted 1,4,5,6-tetrahydrobenzo[h]quinazolin-2-amine (BQA) derivatives, namely 2-amino-4-(2-fluorophenyl)-9-methoxy-1,4,5,6-tetrahydrobenzo[h]quinazolin-3-ium chloride, (8), and 2-amino-4-(4-fluorophenyl)-9-methoxy-1,4,5,6-tetrahydrobenzo[h]quinazolin-3-ium chloride, (9), both C₁₉H₁₉FN₃O⁺·Cl^-, were generated by Michael addition reactions between guanidine hydrochloride and the α,β-unsaturated ketones (E)-2-(2-fluorobenzylidene)-7-methoxy-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one, C₁₈H₁₅FO₂, (6), and (E)-2-(4-fluorobenzylidene)-7-methoxy-3,4-dihydronaphthalen-1(2H)-one, (7). Because both sides of α,β-unsaturated ketones (6) or (7) can be attacked by guanidine, we obtained a pair of isomers in (8) and (9). Single-crystal X-ray diffraction indicates that each isomer has a chiral C atom and both (8) and (9) crystallize in the achiral space group P2₁/c. The chloride ion, as a hydrogen-bond acceptor, plays an important role in the formation of multiple hydrogen bonds. Thus, adjacent molecules are connected through intermolecular hydrogen bonds to generate a banded structure. Furthermore, these bands are linked into an interesting 3D network via hydrogen bonds and π-π interactions. Fortunately, the solubilities of (8) and (9) were distinctly improved and can exceed 50 mg ml^-1 in water or PBS buffer system (pH 7.4) at room temperature. In addition, the results of an investigation of anti-inflammatory activity show that (8) and (9), with o- and p-fluoro substituents, respectively, display more potential for inhibitory effects on LPS-induced NO secretion than starting ketones (6) and (7).

Crystal structure of (3E,5E)-3,5-bis(3-nitrobenzylidene)-1-((4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)sulfonyl)piperidin-4-one — dichloromethane (2/1), C53H38Cl2F6N6O14S2

C53H38Cl2F6N6O14S2, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 12.1975(6) Å, b = 13.9973(7) Å, c = 16.3818(10) Å, α = 69.365(5)°, β = 76.620(5)°, γ = 77.292(4)°, V = 2516.8(3) Å3, Z = 2, R gt(F) = 0.0540, wR ref(F 2) = 0.1413, T = 100.02(10) K.

Benzophenones from Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge. Exhibit Anticancer Activity in HepG2 Cells via the NF-κB Signaling Pathway

A chemical investigation of the fibrous roots of Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge. led to the isolation of four benzophenones, including one new compound (1) and three known ones (2–4). Comprehensive ¹D, ²D NMR and HRESIMS data established the structures of the isolated compounds. The absolute configurations were determined by comparison of the calculated optical rotation (OR) with experimental data. All the isolates were evaluated for their cytotoxicities on hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines (HepG2 and Hep3B). Compound 1 showed strong cytotoxicity against HepG2 and Hep3B cells, with IC₅₀ values at 153.1 and 180.6 nM. Through MTT assay, flow cytometry and Western blot analysis, compound 1 demonstrated the ability to stimulate apoptosis via the NF-κB signaling pathway in HepG2 cells. These benzophenones are potential lead compounds for the development of better treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Jietacins, azoxy natural products, as novel NF-κB inhibitors: Discovery, synthesis, biological activity, and mode of action

Deregulation of NF-κB plays an important role in various diseases by controlling cell growth, inflammation, the immune response, and cytokine production. Although many NF-κB inhibitors have been developed, to the best of our knowledge, none of them have been successfully translated into clinical practice as medicines. To overcome this issue, we aimed to develop a new class of NF-κB inhibitors. Previous reports indicated that the N-terminal cysteine is a promising target for NF-κB. Based on this, we first selected 10 natural products or their derivatives from the natural product library that we developed and examined the effect on NF-κB and the viability of cancer cells with constitutively strong NF-κB activity. Among them, we found that an azoxy natural product, jietacin A, with a vinylazoxy group and an aliphatic side chain, reduced cell viability and inhibited nuclear translocation of free NF-κB. In addition, we performed design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of jietacin derivatives for development of a novel NF-κB inhibitor. Of these derivatives, a fully synthesized derivative 25 with vinylazoxy and ynone groups had a potent effect. We clarified the structure-activity relationship of this compound. Jietacin A and 25 also inhibited tumor necrosis factor-α-mediated induction of NF-κB. The NF-κB inhibitory effect depended on the N-terminal cysteine and the neighboring Arg-Ser-Ala-Gly-Ser-Ile (RSAGSI) domain of NF-κB. We also found that 25 inhibited the association between NF-κB and importin α, suggesting inhibition of NF-κB at an early step of nuclear translocation. Overall, this study indicated that the vinylazoxy motif may compose a new class of NF-κB inhibitors, providing further insight for rational drug design and rendering a unique mode of action.