Structure-activity studies on synthetic analogues (indolactams) of the tumor promoter teleocidin

Synthetic analogues (indolactams) related to the tumor promoter teleocidin were synthesized chemically. Of four indolactam-Vs lacking the monoterpenoid moiety of native teleocidin, (-)-indolactam-V bound to the 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate receptor in cell membranes and induced both adhesion of HL-60 cells and ornithine decarboxylase activity in mouse skin, although its effects were weaker than those of teleocidin. (+)-Indolactam-V and two isomers of epi-indolactam-V showed no induction of ornithine decarboxylase. These results indicate that the S,S configuration of native teleocidin at the isopropyl residue and the hydroxymethyl group is necessary for activity.