Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel cytotoxic azanaphthoquinone annelated pyrrolo oximes

Two series of azanaphthoquinone annelated pyrrolo oximes have been synthesized. The antiproliferative activities of 10 compounds were evaluated on at least four different cell lines. One series of pyrrolo derivatives showed high cytotoxic activity. The effects on cell cycle and caspase activity were investigated. Compounds 9a and 9b showed an accumulation of cells in G2/M phase. Substantial and dose-dependent caspase activity was found after treatment of cells with 9a and 9b. This indicates an apoptosis inducing property of these compounds.

Graphical abstractTwo novel series of azanaphthoquinone annelated pyrrolo oximes were synthesized by aza-condensation. The cytotoxic evaluation on different cancer cell lines is reported and discussed comparing these two isomers.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide