Fatty acyl amide derivatives of doxorubicin: Synthesis and in vitro anticancer activities

► Fatty acyl amide derivatives of doxorubicin were synthesized and evaluated. ► Dodecanoyl derivative was the most effective among the synthesized derivatives. ► Dodecanoyl derivative inhibited the proliferation of colon and ovarian cancer cells. ► Free amino group is required for anticancer activity of doxorubicin.