Identification of novel kynurenine production-inhibiting benzenesulfonamide derivatives in cancer cells

► A benzenesulfonamide analog (compound 1) which inhibits Kyn production was identified. ► Compound 1 suppressed IDO expression at the mRNA level in cancer cells. ► Abrogation of STAT1 function by compound 1 was elucidated. ► Correlation between STAT1 inhibition and suppression of IDO was observed. ► Compound 1 may be effective for analyzing IDO regulation.