Bis(phenylidenebenzeneamine)-1-disulfide Derivatives Induce Autophagy in Melanoma Cells Through a...

We have previously reported the efficient synthesis of bis(phenylidenebenzeneamine)-1-disulfide derivatives 1-8. In the present article, we delineated the signaling pathways involved in the anticancer effects of compound 2 on melanoma cells. The treatment of melanoma cells with compound 2 resulted in ROS generation, a decrease in ΔΨmt, ATP, and protein expression of mitochondrial respiratory chain subunits. In addition, no significant apoptotic or necrotic effect was seen following compound 2 treatment using an annexin V and propidium iodide (PI) double-staining. Nevertheless, autophagy-related proteins LC3 and Beclin 1 were enhanced by compound 2. Furthermore, compound 2 was also shown to reduce murine melanoma size in a mouse model. We revealed a novel bio-evaluation of bis(phenylidenebenzeneamine)-1-disulfide derivatives anti-tumor proliferation mechanism and suggest that these agents may have potential chemotherapeutic activity for melanoma cells.