Structure-based design, synthesis and antiproliferative action of new quinazoline-4-one/chalcone hybrids as EGFR inhibitors

Design, synthesis, biological assessments and computational studies of 3-substituted phenyl quinazolinone derivatives as promising anti-cancer agents

A new series of 3-substituted phenyl quinazolinone derivatives were designed and synthesized as anti-cancer agents. The most potent derivative with IC50 values of 12.84 ± 0.84 and 10.90 ± 0.84 µM against MCF-7 and SW480 cell lines was comparable to Cisplatin and Erlotinib as positive controls. Cell cycle analysis showed that the most active compound could arrest at S phase in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. The apoptosis assay demonstrated the induction of apoptosis in the MCF-7 cell line, too. Molecular docking results showed better accommodation of the most active compound through hydrogen bonding interaction in the binding site of EGFR enzyme. Molecular dynamics simulations for the potent analogue demonstrated well binding stability compared to the less active analogue, with a lower RMSD, Rg and more interactions with the original active site residues. DFT calculations were performed on the active and inactive compounds, using Gaussian 09 at the M06-2X/6-31 + G(d) theoretical level. ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion) properties showed that most of the compounds are in acceptable range of Lipiniski rule. These findings underscore the potential of the synthesized compounds as potent cytotoxic inhibitors and provide insights for developing effective treatments for cancer therapy.

The antibreast cancer therapeutic potential of quinazoline hybrids-Part I

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among female patients across the world. Chemotherapy is a critical means for breast cancer therapy, and administration of chemotherapy could reduce the risk of recurrence by approximately one-third in early breast cancer. However, multidrug resistance represents a principal obstacle to effective chemotherapeutic interventions against breast cancer and is an increasing clinical challenge, creating an urgent demand to explore innovative chemotherapeutics to combat this formidable disease. Quinazoline hybrids with structural and mechanistic diversity exhibit excellent activity against breast cancers including drug-resistant forms and have the potential to reduce side effects caused by the corresponding pharmacophores. Notably, lapatinib, a quinazoline-furan-sulfone hybrid, has already been launched for breast cancer therapy. Thus, quinazoline hybrids represent a fertile source for the development of novel chemotherapeutics for clinical deployment in the control and eradication of breast cancer. This review emphasizes the current scenario of quinazoline hybrids with antibreast cancer therapeutic potential and focuses on structure-activity relationships (SARs) and modes of action, developed from 2020 onwards, to facilitate the rational discovery of more effective antibreast cancer candidates. [Figure: see text]This review emphasizes the current landscape of quinazoline hybrids with antibreast cancer therapeutic potential, delves into structure-activity relationships and mechanisms of action developed from 2020 onwards, aiming to facilitate the rational discovery of more effective and less toxic candidates.

Design, synthesis, in silico studies, and apoptotic antiproliferative activity of novel thiazole-2-acetamide derivatives as tubulin polymerization inhibitors

Introduction

Tubulin polymerization inhibitors have emerged as interesting anticancer therapies. We present the design, synthesis, and structural elucidation of novel thiazole-based derivatives to identify novel tubulin inhibitors with potent antiproliferative efficacy and strong inhibition of tubulin polymerization.

Methods

The novel compounds consist of two scaffolds. Scaffold A compounds 10a-e and scaffold B compounds 13a-e. the structures of the newly synthesized compounds 10a-e and 13a-e were validated using 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and elemental analysis.

Results and Discussion

The most effective antitubulin derivative was 10a, exhibiting an IC50 value of 2.69 μM. Subsequently, 10o and 13d exhibited IC50 values of 3.62 μM and 3.68 μM, respectively. These compounds exhibited more potency than the reference combretastatin A-4, which displayed an IC50 value of 8.33 μM. These compounds had no cytotoxic effects on normal cells, preserving over 85% cell viability at 50 μM. The antiproliferative experiment demonstrated that compounds 10a, 10o, and 13d displayed significant activity against four cancer cell lines, with average GI50 values of 6, 7, and 8 μM, equivalent to the reference's doxorubicin and sorafenib. Compounds 10a, 10o, and 13d were demonstrated to activate caspases 3, 9, and Bax, while down-regulating the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2. Molecular docking studies demonstrated superior binding affinities for 10a (-7.3 kcal/mol) at the colchicine binding site of tubulin, forming key hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interactions that enhance its activity. ADMET analysis confirmed favorable drug-like properties, establishing these compounds as promising candidates for further development as anticancer agents targeting tubulin polymerization.

Design, synthesis, antiproliferative activity, and molecular dynamics simulation of pyrazoline-based derivatives as dual EGFR and HER-2 inhibitors

The dual targeting of EGFR and HER2 is an established anticancer strategy. A novel series including two distinct scaffolds, A (chalcone-based compounds, 4a-n) and B (pyrazoline-based compounds, 5a-n), was developed and synthesized. The antiproliferative efficacy of 4a-n and 5a-n was examined against a panel of four cancer cell lines. The findings indicated that pyrazoline derivatives 5a-n exhibited more efficacy than chalcone compounds 4a-n. Compounds 4n, 5d, and 5g were identified as the most effective antiproliferative derivatives. These compounds were further investigated as dual EGFR/Her2 inhibitors. Compound 5d inhibited EGFR-TK and HER2 significantly, with IC50 values of 0.126 and 0.061 μM, respectively. Moreover, compound 5d can induce a percentage of pre-G1 apoptosis by 78.53% in cell cycle analysis and cause early apoptosis with necrosis percent of 5.28. Docking and MD simulation illustrated the significant cytotoxic activity of the 5d compound and how it can be a promising scaffold with anticancer activity.

Design, synthesis, and apoptotic antiproliferative action of new benzimidazole/1,2,3-triazole hybrids as EGFR inhibitors

Introduction

This work outlines the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of a new series of benzimidazole/1,2,3-triazole hybrids as apoptotic antiproliferative agents that inhibit the EGFR pathway.

Methods

The research assesses the antiproliferative efficacy of compounds 6a-i and 10a-i against various cancer cell lines.

Results and Discussion

The research emphasizing hybrids 6i and 10e for their remarkable activity, with GI50 values of 29 nM and 25 nM, respectively. The inhibitory effects of the most potent hybrids 6e, 6i, 10d, 10e, and 10g on EGFR were assessed. Compounds 6i and 10e exhibited greater potency than erlotinib as EGFR inhibitors. Compounds 6i and 10e were also examined for their apoptotic potential, revealing that these compounds promote apoptosis by activating caspase-3, caspase-8, and Bax, while down-regulating the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. Molecular docking experiments are thoroughly examined to validate the binding interactions of the most active hybrids, 6i and 10e, with the EGFR active site. Furthermore, our new study examined the ADME properties of the new hybrids.

Antitumor Activity and Multi-Target Mechanism of Phenolic Schiff Bases Bearing Methanesulfonamide Fragments: Cell Cycle Analysis and a Molecular Modeling Study

Five phenolic Schiff bases (7-11) incorporating a fragment of methanesulfonamide were synthesized and evaluated for their efficacy as antitumor agents. Compounds 7 and 8 demonstrated the most potent antitumor action, with a positive cytotoxic effect (PCE) of 54/59 and 59/59 and a mean growth percentage (MG%) of 67.3% and 19.5%, respectively, compared with imatinib (PCE = 20/59 and MG% = 92.6%). The PCE values for derivatives 9-11 were 3/59, 4/59, and 4/59, respectively, indicating poor antitumor effect. Compound 8 exhibited the most significant efficacy, suppressing cell proliferation by an average of 50% at a dosage of 0.501 µM, in comparison with the reference drugs sorafenib (2.33 µM), gefitinib (2.10 µM), erlotinib (7.68 µM), and celecoxib (17.5 µM). Compounds 7 and 8 had substantial inhibitory effects on the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), with IC50 values of 0.183 μM and 0.464 μM, respectively. Furthermore, they exhibited significant inhibition of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), with IC50 values of 0.752 μM and 0.166 μM, respectively. Compound 8 exhibited the highest COX-2 inhibition (IC50 = 12.76 μM). We performed molecular docking dynamic experiments to examine the precise interaction and structural prerequisites for the anticancer activity of derivatives 7 and 8 by targeting EGFR and HER2.

Design, synthesis, and antiproliferative activity of new 1,2,3-triazole/quinazoline-4-one hybrids as dual EGFR/BRAFV600E inhibitors

A novel series of 1,2,3-triazole/quinazoline-4-one hybrids (8a-t) were designed and synthesized as dual-targeted antiproliferative agents. Compounds 8a-t were evaluated for their antiproliferative efficacy against a panel of four cancer cell lines. The results indicated that most of the evaluated compounds exhibited strong antiproliferative activity, with 8f, 8g, 8h, 8j, and 8l demonstrating the highest potency. These five compounds were investigated as EGFR and BRAFV600E inhibitors. The in vitro tests showed that compounds 8g, 8h, and 8j are strong antiproliferative agents that might work as dual EGFR/BRAFV600E inhibitors. Compounds 8g and 8h were further examined as activators of caspases 3, 8, and Bax and down-regulators of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2. The results indicated that the studied compounds had considerable apoptotic antiproliferative action. The investigation of the cell cycle and apoptosis revealed that compound 8g induces cell cycle arrest during the G1 phase transition. Molecular docking experiments are thoroughly examined to validate the binding interactions of the most active hybrids with the active sites of EGFR and BRAFV600E. The data indicated that the examined compounds can efficiently engage with essential amino acid residues in both kinases.

Synthesis, enzyme inhibition, and docking studies of new schiff bases of disalicylic acid methylene-based derivatives as dual-target antibacterial agents

Introduction

Bacteria have acquired resistance to almost all antibiotics currently in use due to their extensive, broad, and improper utilization over a prolonged period. DNA gyrase and DHFR exhibit significant promise as targets for antibacterial therapeutics.

Methods

We have developed a series of disalicylic acid methylene/Schiff bases hybrids (6a-l) that function as antibacterial agents by targeting DNA gyrase and DHFR.

Results and discussion

The findings showed that 6a-l have significant antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with inhibition zones (IZ) comparable to or even higher than the reference Ciprofloxacin. MIC testing revealed that 6h and 6l were 1.5 times as effective than ciprofloxacin against S. aureus. Compounds 6h and 6l had MBC values of 28 and 33 nM for S. aureus, compared to Ciprofloxacin's 45 nM, indicating that they are more potent bactericidal agents. The MIC values for compounds 6c, 6e, 6h, 6j, and 6l against A. flavus were between 14.50 and 19.50 µM, while the MIC value for fluconazole was 11.50 µM. Also, the studied compounds had MIC values between 18.20 and 22.90 µM against C. albicans, while Fluconazole had a MIC value of 17.50 µM. Compound 6h showed a MIC value of 1.70 µM against the clinical strain S. aureus (ATCC 43300) (MRSA), making it an effective antibacterial agent. Compounds 6h, 6j, and 6l inhibited E. coli DNA gyrase with IC50 values of 79, 117, and 87 nM, respectively, compared to the reference novobiocin (IC50 = 170 nM). Additionally, compounds 6h and 6l, the most potent E. coli gyrase inhibitors, showed encouraging results on DHFR. Compounds 6h and 6l exhibit IC50 values of 3.80 µM and 4.25 µM, respectively. These values are significantly lower and hence more effective than Trimethoprim's IC50 of 5.20 µM.

New series of 4,6-diaryl pyrimidines: facile synthesis and antiproliferative activity as dual EGFR/VEGFR-2 inhibitors

Introduction

We developed and produced a new series of 4,6-diaryl-pyrimidines 9-29 as antiproliferative agents targeting EGFR/VEGFR-2.

Methods

The antiproliferative efficacy of the novel targets was assessed against a panel of 60 NCI cancer cell lines and four cancer cell lines in vitro.

Results and Discussion

Compounds 14, 17, 19, 22, 25, and 29 demonstrated the greatest potency among the derivatives, with GI50 values between 22 and 33 nM; compounds 22 and 29 exhibited the highest potency, with GI50 values of 22 and 24 nM, respectively. We subsequently examined the most efficient derivatives as dual EGFR/VEGFR-2 inhibitors, finding that compounds 22 and 29 functioned as dual inhibitors. Moreover, 22 and 29 can act as apoptotic inducers by increasing Bax levels and decreasing levels of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2. At both 24- and 48-h intervals, the cell migration rates of compounds 22 and 29 were lower than those of untreated cells, according to the migration rate and wound closure percentage assessment. The wound closure rate reached 100% after 72 h of therapy with compound 22 but only 80% with compound 29. The docking study showed that compounds 22 and 29 had docking scores similar to those of Erlotinib and Sorafenib, co-crystallized ligands, for the EGFR and VEGFR-2 proteins. The experiments on lipophilicity showed that the new pyrimidines had a consistent result. This group of compounds has better biological activity in all the biological systems studied with low lipophilicity.

Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel quinoline-based EGFR/HER-2 dual-target inhibitors as potential anti-tumor agents

Dual targeting of EGFR and HER2 is a valid anti-cancer approach for treating solid tumors. We designed and synthesized a new series of EGFR/HER-2 dual-target inhibitors based on quinoline derivatives. The structure of the newly synthesized compounds was verified using 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and elemental analysis. The targeted compounds were tested for antiproliferative efficacy against four cancer cell lines. All the compounds had GI50s ranging from 25 to 82 nM, with breast (MCF-7) and lung (A-549) cancer cell lines being the most sensitive. Compound 5a demonstrated the most significant antiproliferative action. With inhibitory (IC50) values of 71 and 31 nM, respectively, compound 5a proved to be the most effective dual-target inhibitor of EGFR and HER-2, outperforming the reference erlotinib (IC50 = 80 nM) as an EGFR inhibitor but falling short of the clinically used agent lapatinib (IC50 = 26 nM) as a HER2 inhibitor. The apoptotic potential activity of 5a was examined, and the findings demonstrated that 5a promotes apoptosis by activating caspase-3, 8, and Bax while simultaneously reducing the expression of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. The docking studies provided valuable insights into the binding interactions of compounds 3e and 5a with EGFR, effectively rationalizing the observed SAR trends.

Design and synthesis of new 1,2,4-oxadiazole/quinazoline-4-one hybrids with antiproliferative activity as multitargeted inhibitors

Introduction

The combination of BRAF and tyrosine kinase (TK) inhibitors has been demonstrated to be highly effective in inhibiting tumor development and is an approach for overcoming resistance in clinical trials. Accordingly, a novel series of 1,2,4-oxadiazole/quinazoline-4-one hybrids was developed as antiproliferative multitargeted inhibitors.

Methods

The structures of the newly synthesized compounds 9a-o were validated using IR, NMR, MS, and elemental techniques. 9a-o were tested as antiproliferative agents.

Results and Discussion

The results showed that the majority of the tested compounds showed significant antiproliferative action with 9b, 9c, 9h, 9k, and 9l being the most potent. Compounds 9b, 9c, 9h, 9k, and 9l were tested as EGFR and BRAFV600E inhibitors. These in vitro tests revealed that compounds 9b, 9c, and 9h are strong antiproliferative agents that may act as dual EGFR/BRAFV600E inhibitors. 9b, 9c, and 9h were further investigated for their inhibitory effect on mutant EGFR (EGFRT790M), and the results showed that the tested compounds had considerable inhibitory action. Cell cycle study and apoptosis detection demonstrated that compound 9b exhibits cell cycle arrest at the G2/M transition. Molecular docking simulations reveal the binding mechanism of the most active antiproliferative agents.

Design and Synthesis of New Dihydropyrimidine Derivatives with a Cytotoxic Effect as Dual EGFR/VEGFR-2 Inhibitors

We developed and synthesized tetrahydropyrimidine derivatives as possible cytotoxic agents to inhibit EGFR and VEGFR-2 in the present study. Our study completely assesses the cytotoxic efficiency of pyrimidine-based derivatives 4-15 against various cancer cell lines, revealing derivatives 12 and 15 for their remarkable activity with GI50 values of 37 and 35 nM, respectively, when compared to the reference erlotinib (33 nM). In vitro enzyme assays showed that target compounds, particularly 12, 14, and 15, effectively inhibited EGFR and VEGFR-2. In vitro enzyme testing revealed that compound 15 was the most promising, with IC50 values of 84 and 3.50 nM for EGFR and VEGFR-2, respectively. Additionally, an in vitro assessment of the novel targets' apoptotic potential revealed that both pro-apoptotic and antiapoptotic behaviors were promising, indicating that the apoptotic induction pathway is a strongly proposed action method for the newly developed targets. Finally, molecular docking experiments are elaborately discussed to corroborate the exact binding interactions of the most active hybrids 12 and 15 with the EGFR and VEGFR-2 active sites.

Synthesis of a new series of 4-pyrazolylquinolinones with apoptotic antiproliferative effects as dual EGFR/BRAFV600E inhibitors

The current study focuses on developing a single molecule that acts as an antiproliferative agent with dual or multi-targeted action, reducing drug resistance and adverse effects. A new series of 4-pyrazolylquinolin-2-ones (5a-j) with apoptotic antiproliferative effects as dual EGFR/BRAFV600E inhibitors were designed and synthesized. Compounds 5a-j were investigated for their cell viability effect against a normal cell line (MCF-10A). Results showed that none of the compounds were cytotoxic, and all 5a-j demonstrated more than 90% cell viability at 50 μM concentration. Using erlotinib as a reference, the MTT assay investigated the antiproliferative impact of targets 5a-j against four human cancer cell lines. Compounds 5e, 5f, 5h, 5i, and 5j were the most potent antiproliferative agents with GI50 values of 42, 26, 29, 34, and 37 nM, making compounds 5f and 5h more potent than erlotinib (GI50 = 33 nM). Moreover, compounds 5e, 5f, 5h, 5i, and 5j were further investigated as dual EGFR/BRAFV600E inhibitors, and results revealed that compounds 5f, 5h, and 5i are potent antiproliferative agents that act as dual EGFR/BRAFV600E inhibitors. Cell cycle analysis and apoptosis detection revealed that compound 5h displaying cell cycle arrest at the G1 transition could induce apoptosis with a high necrosis percentage. Docking studies revealed that compound 5f exhibited a strong affinity for EGFR and BRAFV600E, with high docking scores of -8.55 kcal mol-1 and -8.22 kcal mol-1, respectively. Furthermore, the ADME analysis of compounds 5a-j highlighted the diversity in their pharmacokinetic properties, emphasizing the importance of experimental validation.

Rational Design and Synthesis of Isatin-Chalcone Hybrids Integrated with 1H-1,2,3-Triazole: Anti-Proliferative Profiling and Molecular Docking Insights

In this study, a series of isatin-chalcone linked triazoles were synthesized using Cu-promoted Azide-Alkyne Cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction and evaluated for their cytotoxicity against various cancer cell lines. The most potent compound displayed approximately 2.5 times greater activity compared to both reference compounds against ovarian cancer cell lines. These findings were supported by caspase-mediated apoptosis and molecular docking analyses. Docking revealed comparable VEGFR-2 affinities for 5 b and 5-FU but highlighted stronger interaction of 5 b with EGFR, evident from its lower docking score. Overall, these results signify the notable anti-proliferative potential of most synthesized hybrids, notably emphasizing the efficacy of compound 5 b in suppressing cancer cell growth.

Novel 2-[thio]acetamide linked quinazoline/1,2,4-triazole/chalcone hybrids: Design, synthesis, and anticancer activity as EGFR inhibitors and apoptotic inducers

Novel triazoloquinazolines carrying the 2-[thio]acetamide entity (4 and 5a-d) and triazoloquinazoline/chalcone hybrids incorporating the 2-[thio]acetamide linker (8a-b and 9a-f) were developed as anticancer candidates. NCI screening of the synthesized compounds at 10 μM concentration displayed growth inhibition not only up to 99.74% as observed for 9a but also a lethal effect could be achieved as stated for compounds 9c (RPMI-8226 and HCT-116) and 8b, 9a, and 9e on the HCT-116 cell line. The antiproliferative activity was determined for the chalcone series on three cell lines: RPMI-8226, HCT-116, and MCF-7. Compounds 8b, 9a, 9b, and 9f were the most active ones. To understand the mechanistic study, the inhibitory effect on the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) kinase was evaluated. The results stated that the activity of compound 8b (IC50 = 0.07 μM) was near that of the reference drug erlotinib (IC50 = 0.052 μM) whereas compound 9b (IC50 = 0.045 μM) was found to be more potent than erlotinib. Both compounds 8b and 9b were selected for cell cycle analysis and apoptotic assays. Moreover, molecular docking results of the selected chalcone hybrids showed high binding scores and good binding affinities especially for 8b and 9b, which were consistent with the biological activity (EGFR).

Current scenario of chalcone hybrids with antibreast cancer therapeutic applications

Breast cancer, an epithelial malignant tumor that occurs in the terminal ducts of the breast, is the most common female malignancy. Currently, approximately 70%-80% of breast cancer with early-stage, nonmetastatic disorder is curable, but the emergency of drug resistance often leads to treatment failure. Moreover, advanced breast cancer with distant organ metastases is incurable with the available therapeutics, creating an urgent demand to explore novel antibreast cancer agents. Chalcones, the precursors for flavonoids and isoflavonoids, exhibit promising activity against various breast cancer hallmarks, inclusive of proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, inflammation, stemness, and regulation of cancer epigenetics, representing useful scaffolds for the discovery of novel antibreast cancer chemotherapeutic candidates. In particular, chalcone hybrids could act on two or more different biological targets simultaneously with more efficacy, lower toxicity, and less susceptibility to resistance. Accordingly, there is a huge scope for application of chalcone hybrids to tackle the present difficulties in breast cancer therapy. This review outlines the chalcone hybrids with antibreast cancer potential developed from 2018. The structure-activity relationships as well as mechanisms of action are also discussed to shed light on the development of more effective and multitargeted chalcone candidates.

Synthesis and Antiproliferative Potential of Thiazole and 4-Thiazolidinone Containing Motifs as Dual Inhibitors of EGFR and BRAFV600E

Thiazole and thiazolidinone recur in a wide range of biologically active compounds that reach different targets within the context of tumors and represent a promising starting point to access potential candidates for treating metastatic cancer. Therefore, searching for new lead compounds that show the highest anticancer potency with the fewest adverse effects is a major drug-discovery challenge. Because the thiazole ring is present in dasatinib, which is currently used in anticancer therapy, it is important to highlight the ring. In this study, cycloalkylidenehydrazinecarbothioamides (cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, cyclooctyl, dihydronapthalenylidene, flurine-9-ylidene, and indolinonyl) reacted with 2-bromoacetophenone and diethylacetylenedicarboxylate to yield thiazole and 4-thiazolidinone derivatives. The structure of the products was confirmed by using infrared (IR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and single-crystal X-ray analyses. The antiproliferative activity of the newly synthesized compounds was evaluated. The most effective inhibitory compounds were further tested in vitro against both epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and B-Raf proto-oncogene, serine/threonine kinase (BRAFV600E) targets. Additionally, molecular docking analysis examined how these molecules bind to the active sites of EGFR and BRAFV600E.

Quinazolin-4-one/3-cyanopyridin-2-one Hybrids as Dual Inhibitors of EGFR and BRAFV600E: Design, Synthesis, and Antiproliferative Activity

A novel series of hybrid compounds comprising quinazolin-4-one and 3-cyanopyridin-2-one structures has been developed, with dual inhibitory actions on both EGFR and BRAFV600E. These hybrid compounds were tested in vitro against four different cancer cell lines. Compounds 8, 9, 18, and 19 inhibited cell proliferation significantly in the four cancer cells, with GI50 values ranging from 1.20 to 1.80 µM when compared to Doxorubicin (GI50 = 1.10 µM). Within this group of hybrids, compounds 18 and 19 exhibited substantial inhibition of EGFR and BRAFV600E. Molecular docking investigations provided confirmation that compounds 18 and 19 possess the capability to inhibit EGFR and BRAFV600E. Moreover, computational ADMET prediction indicated that most of the newly synthesized hybrids have low toxicity and minimal side effects.

Metabolomic profiling and cytotoxic potential of three endophytic fungi of the genera Aspergillus, Penicillium and Fusarium isolated from Nigella sativa seeds assisted with docking studies

The main aim of our study is to investigate the anticancer potential of our cultivated entophytic fungal strains from Nigella sativa seeds. The strains were identified by sequencing of the partial 18S rRNA gene and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region as Aspergillus sp. (SA4), Penicillium sp. (SA5), and Fusarium sp. (SA6). We carried out metabolic profiling for three fungal strains to investigate their metabolites diversity. Profiling of the different extracts revealed their richness in diverse metabolites and consequently fourteen compounds (1-14) were annotated. In addition, the obtained extracts were examined against three cell lines HepG2, MCF-7 and Caco-2 showed activity with IC50 values in the range of 1.95-39.7 μg/mL. Finally, molecular docking study was performed showing questinol as the lowest glide binding score value (-5.925 kcal/mol) among all identified compounds. Our results showed Nigella sativa-associated endophytes as a promising source for further studies to look for anticancer secondary metabolites.

Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Novel Quinazolin-4(3H)-One-Based Histone Deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) Inhibitors for Anticancer Activity

A series of novel quinazoline-4-(3H)-one derivatives were designed and synthesized as histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) inhibitors based on novel quinazoline-4-(3H)-one as the cap group and benzhydroxamic acid as the linker and metal-binding group. A total of 19 novel quinazoline-4-(3H)-one analogues (5a-5s) were obtained. The structures of the target compounds were characterized using ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR, LC-MS, and elemental analyses. Characterized compounds were screened for inhibition against HDAC8 class I, HDAC4 class IIa, and HDAC6 class IIb. Among the compounds tested, 5b proved to be the most potent and selective inhibitor of HDAC6 with an IC₅₀ value 150 nM. Some of these compounds showed potent antiproliferative activity in several tumor cell lines (HCT116, MCF7, and B16). Amongst all the compounds tested for their anticancer effect against cancer cell lines, 5c emerged to be most active against the MCF-7 line with an IC₅₀ of 13.7 μM; it exhibited cell-cycle arrest in the G2 phase, as well as promoted apoptosis. Additionally, we noted a significant reduction in the colony-forming capability of cancer cells in the presence of 5c. At the intracellular level, selective inhibition of HDAC6 was enumerated by monitoring the acetylation of α-tubulin with a limited effect on acetyl-H3. Importantly, the obtained results suggested a potent effect of 5c at sub-micromolar concentrations as compared to the other molecules as HDAC6 inhibitors in vitro.

One-Pot Synthesis of 1-Thia-4-azaspiro[4.4/5]alkan-3-ones via Schiff Base: Design, Synthesis, and Apoptotic Antiproliferative Properties of Dual EGFR/BRAFV600E Inhibitors

In this investigation, novel 4-((quinolin-4-yl)amino)-thia-azaspiro[4.4/5]alkan-3-ones were synthesized via interactions between 4-(2-cyclodenehydrazinyl)quinolin-2(1H)-one and thioglycolic acid catalyzed by thioglycolic acid. We prepared a new family of spiro-thiazolidinone derivatives in a one-step reaction with excellent yields (67-79%). The various NMR, mass spectra, and elemental analyses verified the structures of all the newly obtained compounds. The antiproliferative effects of 6a-e, 7a, and 7b against four cancer cells were investigated. The most effective antiproliferative compounds were 6b, 6e, and 7b. Compounds 6b and 7b inhibited EGFR with IC₅₀ values of 84 and 78 nM, respectively. Additionally, 6b and 7b were the most effective inhibitors of BRAF^V600E (IC₅₀ = 108 and 96 nM, respectively) and cancer cell proliferation (GI₅₀ = 35 and 32 nM against four cancer cell lines, respectively). Finally, the apoptosis assay results revealed that compounds 6b and 7b had dual EGFR/BRAF^V600E inhibitory properties and showed promising antiproliferative and apoptotic activity.

Design, synthesis, and modelling study of new 1,2,3-triazole/chalcone hybrids with antiproliferative action as epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors

A novel series of 1,2,3-triazole/chalcone hybrids 6a-n was designed and synthesized using a molecular hybridization approach to develop a new cytotoxic agent capable of targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and/or BRAF. The antiproliferative effect of the novel hybrids was investigated against four cancer cells using doxorubicin as a reference. Hybrids 6a, 6d, 6f-h, and 6n have the highest antiproliferative activity (IC₅₀ values 0.95-1.80 μM) compared to doxorubicin (IC₅₀ 1.14 μM). The most potent antiproliferative derivative, compound 6d, was also the most potent EGFR inhibitor with an IC₅₀ of 0.09 ± 0.05 μM, which is comparable to the reference Erlotinib (IC₅₀  = 0.05 ± 0.03 μM). 6d has modest BRAF inhibitory action with an IC₅₀ of 0.90 ± 0.10 μM. The findings were also related to molecular docking studies, which provided models of strong interactions with the EGFR-TK domain for the inhibitors. In cell cycle analysis, hybrid 6d caused a cell cycle arrest at the G1 transition phase.

Design, synthesis, cytotoxic activities, and molecular docking of chalcone hybrids bearing 8-hydroxyquinoline moiety with dual tubulin/EGFR kinase inhibition

The present study established thirteen novel 8-hydroxyquinoline/chalcone hybrids3a-mof hopeful anticancer activity. According to NCI screening and MTT assay results, compounds3d-3f, 3i,3k,and3ldisplayed potent growth inhibition on HCT116 and MCF7 cells compared to Staurosporine. Among these compounds,3eand3fshowed outstanding superior activity against HCT116 and MCF7 cells and better safety toward normal WI-38 cells than Staurosporine. The enzymatic assay revealed that3e,3d, and3ihad goodtubulin polymerization inhibition (IC₅₀ = 5.3, 8.6, and 8.05 µM, respectively) compared to the reference Combretastatin A4 (IC₅₀ = 2.15 µM). Moreover,3e,3l, and3fexhibited EGFR inhibition (IC₅₀ = 0.097, 0.154, and 0.334 µM, respectively) compared to Erlotinib (IC₅₀ = 0.056 µM). Compounds3eand3fwere investigated for their effects on the cell cycle, apoptosis induction, andwnt1/β-cateningene suppression. The apoptosis markers Bax, Bcl2, Casp3, Casp9, PARP1, and β-actin were detected by Western blot. In-silico molecular docking, physicochemical, and pharmacokinetic studies were implemented for the validation of dual mechanisms and other bioavailability standards. Hence, Compounds3eand3fare promising antiproliferative leads with tubulin polymerization and EGFR kinase inhibition.

Design, Synthesis, and Antiproliferative Activity of New 5-Chloro-indole-2-carboxylate and Pyrrolo[3,4-b]indol-3-one Derivatives as Potent Inhibitors of EGFRT790M/BRAFV600E Pathways

Mutant EGFR/BRAF pathways are thought to be crucial targets for the development of anticancer drugs since they are over-activated in several malignancies. We present here the development of a novel series of 5-chloro-indole-2-carboxylate 3a-e, 4a-c and pyrrolo[3,4-b]indol-3-ones 5a-c derivatives as potent inhibitors of mutant EGFR/BRAF pathways with antiproliferative activity. The cell viability assay results of 3a-e, 4a-c, and 5a-c revealed that none of the compounds tested were cytotoxic, and that the majority of those tested at 50 µM had cell viability levels greater than 87%. Compounds 3a-e, 4a-c, and 5a-c had significant antiproliferative activity with GI50 values ranging from 29 nM to 78 nM, with 3a-e outperforming 4a-c and 5a-c in their inhibitory actions against the tested cancer cell lines. Compounds 3a-e were tested for EGFR inhibition, with IC50 values ranging from 68 nM to 89 nM. The most potent derivative was found to be the m-piperidinyl derivative 3e (R = m-piperidin-1-yl), with an IC50 value of 68 nM, which was 1.2-fold more potent than erlotinib (IC50 = 80 nM). Interestingly, all the tested compounds 3a-e had higher anti-BRAFV600E activity than the reference erlotinib but were less potent than vemurafenib, with compound 3e having the most potent activity. Moreover, compounds 3b and 3e showed an 8-fold selectivity index toward EGFRT790M protein over wild-type. Additionally, molecular docking of 3a and 3b against BRAFV600E and EGFRT790M enzymes revealed high binding affinity and active site interactions compared to the co-crystalized ligands. The pharmacokinetics properties (ADME) of 3a-e revealed safety and good pharmacokinetic profile.

Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Syn and Anti-like Double Warhead Quinolinones Bearing Dihydroxy Naphthalene Moiety as Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors with Potential Apoptotic Antiproliferative Action

Our investigation includes the synthesis of new naphthalene-bis-triazole-bis-quinolin-2(1H)-ones 4a−e and 7a−e via Cu-catalyzed [3 + 2] cycloadditions of 4-azidoquinolin-2(1H)-ones 3a−e with 1,5-/or 1,8-bis(prop-2-yn-1-yloxy)naphthalene (2) or (6). All structures of the obtained products have been confirmed with different spectroscopic analyses. Additionally, a mild and versatile method based on copper-catalyzed [3 + 2] cycloaddition (Meldal−Sharpless reaction) was developed to tether quinolinones to O-atoms of 1,5- or 1,8-dinaphthols. The triazolo linkers could be considered as anti and syn products, which are interesting precursors for functionalized epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors with potential apoptotic antiproliferative action. The antiproliferative activities of the 4a−e and 7a−e were evaluated. Compounds 4a−e and 7a−e demonstrated strong antiproliferative activity against the four tested cancer cell lines, with mean GI50 ranging from 34 nM to 134 nM compared to the reference erlotinib, which had a GI50 of 33 nM. The most potent derivatives as antiproliferative agents, compounds 4a, 4b, and 7d, were investigated for their efficacy as EGFR inhibitors, with IC50 values ranging from 64 nM to 97 nM. Compounds 4a, 4b, and 7d demonstrated potent apoptotic effects via their effects on caspases 3, 8, 9, Cytochrome C, Bax, and Bcl2. Finally, docking studies show the relevance of the free amino group of the quinoline moiety for antiproliferative action via hydrogen bond formation with essential amino acids.

Design, Synthesis, Molecular Modeling, and Anticancer Evaluation of New VEGFR-2 Inhibitors Based on the Indolin-2-One Scaffold

A new series of indoline-2-one derivatives was designed and synthesized based on the essential pharmacophoric features of VEGFR-2 inhibitors. Anti-proliferative activities were assessed for all derivatives against breast (MCF-7) and liver (HepG2) cancer cell lines, using sunitinib as a reference agent. The most potent anti-proliferative derivatives were evaluated for their VEGFR-2 inhibition activity. The effects of the most potent inhibitor, 17a, on cell cycle, apoptosis, and expression of apoptotic markers (caspase-3&-9, BAX, and Bcl-2) were studied. Molecular modeling studies, such as docking simulations, physicochemical properties prediction, and pharmacokinetic profiling were performed. The results revealed that derivatives 5b, 10e, 10g, 15a, and 17a exhibited potent anticancer activities with IC50 values from 0.74-4.62 µM against MCF-7 cell line (sunitinib IC50 = 4.77 µM) and from 1.13-8.81 µM against HepG2 cell line (sunitinib IC50 = 2.23 µM). Furthermore, these compounds displayed potent VEGFR-2 inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 0.160, 0.358, 0.087, 0.180, and 0.078 µM, respectively (sunitinib IC50 = 0.139 µM). Cell cycle analysis demonstrated the ability of 17a to induce a cell cycle arrest of the HepG2 cells at the S phase and increase the total apoptosis by 3.5-fold. Moreover, 17a upregulated the expression levels of apoptotic markers caspase-3 and -9 by 6.9-fold and 3.7-fold, respectively. In addition, 17a increased the expression level of BAX by 2.7-fold while decreasing the expression level of Bcl-2 by 1.9-fold. The molecular docking simulations displayed enhanced binding interactions and similar placement as sunitinib inside the active pocket of VEGFR-2. The molecular modeling calculations showed that all the test compounds were in accordance with Lipinski and Veber rules for oral bioavailability and had promising drug-likeness behavior.

A Comprehensive Review of Recent Advances in the Biological Activities of Quinazolines

Quinazoline heterocycles are critical in the development of medications. Quinazoline derivatives have been intensively researched, providing a wide range of compounds with diverse biological roles. The quinazoline nucleus has garnered a lot of attention in medical chemistry in recent years. It was assumed to be a pharmacophore component in the development of physiologically interesting drugs. This review is an attempt to increase the potential of quinazoline by highlighting a wide range of advancements demonstrated by numerous derivatives of the quinazoline moiety, as well as focusing on diverse pharmacological actions of the quinazoline moiety. This review compiles recent studies on the quinazoline moiety described in the literature by researchers.