The novel anti-tumor agents of 4-triazol-1,8-naphthalimides: Synthesis, cytotoxicity, DNA intercalation and photocleavage

A novel series of 4-(4-phenyl-[1,2,3]-triazol-1-yl)-1,8-naphthalimide derivatives had been synthesized easily by employing “click reaction”. For anti-tumor activity in vitro, all the compounds were found to be more toxic against MCF-7 than Hela and 7721 cells. 4a, 4b and 4e Showed improved cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 cells over Amonafide, in particular compound 4a, with an IC50 could amount to 10−7 M. The UV–vis spectra and Circular Dichroism titration indicated that the compounds behaved as effective DNA-intercalating agents. The investigation of their photo-damaging ability illuminated that these compounds could damage DNA effectively into form II and even form III.

1,2,3-Triazol-naphthalimedes were synthesized and biological assays showed that compound 4a own improved cytotoxicity over Amonafide and could damage DNA efficiently into form II and even form III.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights
► Firstly combine the 1,2,3-triazole to the 4-site of naphthalimide.
► Obtain targeted compounds with high yields in environmental protection conditions.
► One of new compounds own improved cytotoxicity with an IC50 amounting to 10−7 M.
► The compounds could damage DNA effectively into form II and even form III.
► The different binding models depend on the ratio of C4b/[DNA].