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.

Graphical abstract1,2,3-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 full-size imageDownload 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].