Synthesis and antitumor activity of conjugates of 5-Fluorouracil and emodin

A series of conjugates of 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) and emodin were synthesized by coupling trimethyl emodin with N1, N3 dialkylated 5-FU. The 5-FU moiety contained various substituents at the N3-position were linked to the 2-position of trimethyl emodin via a methylene linkage. Their cytotoxicity against three cancer cell lines and one noncancerous cell were studied. The results revealed that some of conjugates exhibited better or comparable in vitro antitumor activity to 5-FU and emodin and low toxicity in the normal cell. The structure–activity relationship study showed N3-aromatic substituent was important for their cytotoxic activity.

A series of conjugates of 5-FU and emodin were synthesized and evaluated for their antitumor activity. The structure–activity relationship showed N3-aromatic substituent is important for their cytotoxic activity. Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► A series of conjugates of 5-Fluorouracil and emodin were synthesized.
► Their in vitro antitumor activity was tested.
► The SAR showed N3-aromatic substituent was important for their cytotoxic activity.