Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel glycosylated diphyllin derivatives as topoisomerase II inhibitors

Recently, a novel glycosylated diphyllin derivative 11 which exhibiting potent anticancer activity by targeting topoisomerase IIα was reported by our group. In order to provide more molecules for structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies, 12 new glycosylated diphyllin analogs have been designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their biological activities. The SAR analysis revealed that (i) the sugar moiety on the diphyllin is essential for the anticancer activity; (ii) equatorial C4′–OH on the sugar is superior to the axial one, and (iii) a proper cyclic lipophilic group at the C4′ and C6′ of sugar might enhance the anticancer activity.

Graphical abstractA series of glycosylated diphyllin derivatives were designed for anti-tumor activity and SAR studies were revealed.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► 12 new glycosylated diphyllin derivatives were designed for anti-tumor activity. ► The sugar moiety on the C4 is a key element for its bioactivity. ► Glycosides with equatorial C4′–OH are more active than those with axial one. ► Acetal glucosides showed outstanding cytotoxicity and Topo II inhibitory activity.