Design and synthesis of some β-carboline derivatives as multi-target anticancer agents

Mohamed A Abdelsalam1, Omaima M AboulWafa1, El-Sayed Am Badawey1

  • 1Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt.

Future Medicinal Chemistry
|December 13, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Novel anticancer beta-carbolines were developed, showing potent activity against cancer cells. Compounds 10, 12, and 20 effectively induce apoptosis via dual inhibition of topoisomerase I (topo-I) and KSP-ATPase.

Area of Science:

  • Medicinal Chemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Beta-carbolines are a class of compounds with known biological activities.
  • Targeting topoisomerase I (topo-I) and Kinesin Spindle Protein (KSP)-ATPase are promising strategies for cancer therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To synthesize and evaluate novel beta-carbolines for anticancer properties.
  • To investigate the mechanism of action, including dual inhibition of topo-I and KSP-ATPase.

Main Methods:

  • Synthesis of novel beta-carboline derivatives.
  • Anticancer activity screening using the NCI protocol.
  • In vitro assays for topoisomerase I and KSP-ATPase inhibition.
  • Apoptosis and cell cycle analysis in melanoma cells.
  • In silico studies including docking and ADME property prediction.

Main Results:

  • Five compounds (9, 10, 12, 17, 20) demonstrated potent, non-selective anticancer activity.
  • Compound 12 (a sulfanyltriazole) was the most potent agent.
  • Compounds 10, 12, and 20 exhibited dual inhibition of topo-I and KSP-ATPase.
  • These active compounds induced Pre-G1 apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest in MDA-MB-435 melanoma cells.
  • In silico analyses confirmed favorable physicochemical and ADME profiles.

Conclusions:

  • Compounds 10, 12, and 20 are effective multi-target anticancer agents.
  • Their mechanism involves potent apoptosis induction through dual inhibition of topo-I and KSP-ATPase.
  • These novel beta-carbolines represent promising candidates for further anticancer drug development.

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