Anti-tumor and proapoptotic effect of novel synthetic benzophenone analogues in Ehrlich ascites tumor cells

A series of substituted benzophenone analogues, (2-aroyl-4-methylphenoxy)acetamides 4a–e, have been synthesized via three-step synthesis sequence beginning with the 2-hydroxybenzophenones 1a–e in excellent yield. 1a–e on reaction with ethyl chloroacetate afford ethyl (2-aroyl-4-methylphenoxy)acetates 2a–e which on alkaline hydrolysis afforded (2-aroyl-4-methylphenoxy)ethanoic acid 3a–e. Compounds 3a–e on condensation with p-chloroaniline furnished benzophenone analogues 4a–e. In the present report, we investigated the anti-tumor and proapoptotic effect of benzophenones in Ehrlich ascites tumor (EAT) cells. Treatment of benzophenones in vivo resulted in inhibition of proliferation of EAT cells and ascites formation. Further, we demonstrate that the induction of apoptosis in EAT cells is mediated through activation of caspase-3. These results suggest a further possible clinical application of these synthetic compounds as potent anti-tumor and proapoptotic compounds.

A series of substituted benzophenone analogues, (2-aroyl-4-methylphenoxy)acetamides 4a–e, have been synthesized via the three-step synthesis sequence beginning with the 2-hydroxybenzophenones 1a–e in excellent yield. Treatment of Ehrlich ascites tumor (EAT) cells with benzophenones in vivo resulted in inhibition of cell proliferation and ascites formation. Further, we demonstrate that induction of apoptosis in EAT cells is mediated via caspase-3 activation. These results suggest possible use of these compounds as potent anti-tumor and proapoptotic agents.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide