Synthesis and anti-inflammatory activity of antioxidants, 4-alkylthio-o-anisidine derivatives

In order to search for anti-inflammatory agents against autoimmune diseases, we synthesized 4-alkylthio-o-anisidine derivatives possessing antioxidant activity, and tested them for anti-inflammatory activity against the Arthus reaction in mice. Experimental inflammations, including the Arthus reaction, concanavalin A, phorbol ester and pyrophosphate-induced edemas in rats were inhibited by 4-propylthio-o-anisidine, which inhibited autoxidation of rat brain homogenate and suppressed the lipopolysaccharide-induced increase in the plasma malondialdehyde level in mice. An antioxidant may be an effective agent in immune complex type inflammation where active oxygen species play an important role.