Phenylimino-10H-anthracen-9-ones as novel antimicrotubule agents-synthesis, antiproliferative activity and inhibition of tubulin polymerization

► Phenylimino-10H-anthracen-9-ones show antiproliferative activity against different tumor cell lines. ► Documented activity against multidrug resistant phenotypes. ► Most active compounds inhibit cell cycle in G2/M. ► 10-(3-Hydroxy-4-methoxy-phenylimino)-10H-anthracen-9-one strongly inhibits tubulin polymerization. ► Displacement of radiolabeled colchicine in competition experiments.