Antiproliferative and Antiangiogenic Properties of New VEGFR-2-targeting 2-thioxobenzo[g]quinazoline Derivatives (In Vitro)

Quinazoline-based VEGFR-2 inhibitors as potential anti-angiogenic agents: A contemporary perspective of SAR and molecular docking studies

Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels from the existing vasculature, is pivotal in the migration, growth, and differentiation of endothelial cells in normal physiological conditions. In various types of tumour microenvironments, dysregulated angiogenesis plays a crucial role in supplying oxygen and nutrients to cancerous cells, leading to tumour size growth. VEGFR-2 tyrosine kinase has been extensively studied as a critical regulator of angiogenesis; thus, inhibition of VEGFR-2 has been widely used for cancer treatments in recent years. Quinazoline nucleus is a privileged and versatile scaffold with a broad range of pharmacological activity, especially in the field of tyrosine kinase inhibitors with more than twenty small molecule inhibitors approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in the last two decades. As of now, the U.S. FDA has approved eleven small chemical inhibitors of VEGFR-2 for various types of malignancies, with a prime example being vandetanib, a quinazoline derivative, which is a multi targeted kinase inhibitor used for the treatment of late-stage medullary thyroid cancer. Despite of prosperous discovery and development of VEGFR-2 down regulator drugs, there still exists limitations in clinical efficacy, adverse effects, a high rate of clinical discontinuation and drug resistance. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the design and synthesis of more selective and effective inhibitors to tackle these challenges. Through the gathering of this review, we have strived to broaden the extent of our view over the entire scope of quinazoline-based VEGFR-2 inhibitors. Herein, we give an overview of the importance and advancement status of reported structures, highlighting the SAR, biological evaluations and their binding modes.

EGFR and PI3K/m-TOR inhibitors: design, microwave assisted synthesis and anticancer activity of thiazole-coumarin hybrids

A series of thiazoline and thiazolidinone-based 4-hydroxycoumarin derivatives were synthesized using both conventional synthesis procedures and microwave-assisted techniques. The new compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic effect against three human cancer cell lines; MCF-7, HCT-116 and HepG2 and one normal human cell line (BJ-1). The promising anti-proliferative compounds 2a, 2b, 6a and 6b were assessed for inhibiting EGFR and PI3K/mTOR. Compound 6a showed the highest inhibition activity towards the signaling pathway. The apoptotic effect and cell cycle arrest potential of derivative 6a were examined. Moreover, the molecular docking, physicochemical properties and pharmacokinetic parameters of the promising compound were investigated, as well.

Benzo[g]quinazolines as antifungal against candidiasis: Screening, molecular docking, and QSAR investigations

Candida albicans, an opportunistic pathogen, is the most common type of fungus and represents a substantial source of human invasive disease (nosocomial infection). This category of fungi are part of our microbiota, and given the appropriate environmental conditions, it has the potential to cause both superficial and systemic infections. There is a soaring resistance against the available anticandidal agents. The purpose of this research is to investigate the activity of certain previously synthesized benzo[g]quinazolines against C. albicans in vitro by using the cup-plate diffusion method. There was a marked difference in the effectiveness of the target compounds 1-6 against the sample of C. albicans that was tested. Benzo[g]quinazolines 1 (inhibition zone = 20 mm) and 2 (inhibition zone = 22 mm) had good effects in comparison to fluconazole (inhibition zone = 26 mm). A docking study was conducted between benzo[g]quinazolines 1-6 and Candida spp. CYP51 to establish the binding mode compared with fluconazole and VT-1161 (oteseconazole) as reference medicines, and it was determined that binding at the active site of Candida spp. CYP51 occurred in the same manner. Quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) investigation was performed to further characterize the identified anticandidal agents and recognize the major regulatory components governing such activity. In future studies, the benzo[g]quinazoline scaffold could serve as a model for the design and development of novel derivatives with antifungal potential.

Antiviral activity of some benzo[g]quinazolines against coxsackievirus B4: biological screening and docking study

BACKGROUND

Serotype coxsackievirus B (CVB) infection has been linked to viral myocarditis, dilated cardiomyopathy, meningitis, and pancreatitis in children and young adults. As of yet, no antiviral drug has been authorized for the treatment of coxsackievirus infection. Therefore, there is perpetual demand for new therapeutic agents and the improvement of existing ones. Benzo[g]quinazolines, the subject of several well-known heterocyclic systems, have risen to prominence and played a significant role in the development of antiviral agents, particularly those for anti-coxsackievirus B4 infection.

METHODS

This study investigated the cytotoxicity of the target benzo[g]quinazolines (1-16) in the BGM cells line as well as their anti-coxsackievirus B4 activity. Determination of CVB4 titers using a plaque assay.

RESULTS

Most of the target benzoquinazolines exhibited antiviral activity, however, compounds 1-3 appeared to be the most effective (reduction percentages of 66.7, 70, and 83.3%, respectively). The binding mechanisms and interactions of the three most active 1-3 with the constitutive amino acids in the active site of the multi-target of coxsackievirus B4 (3Clpro and RdRp) targets were also investigated using molecular docking.

CONCLUSION

The anti coxsackievirus B4 activity has resulted, and the top three active benzoquinazolines (1-3) have bonded to and interacted with the constitutive amino acids in the active region of the multi-target coxsackievirus B4 (RdRp and 3Clpro). Further research is required in the lab. to determine the exact benzoquinazolines mechanism of action.

Biological Investigation of 2-Thioxo-benzo[g]quinazolines against Adenovirus Type 7 and Bacteriophage Phi X174: An In Vitro Study

Mortality and morbidity caused by viruses are a global health problems. Therefore, there is always a need to create novel therapeutic agents and refine existing ones to maximize their efficacy. Our lab has produced benzoquinazolines derivatives that have proven effective activity as antiviral compounds against herpes simplex (HSV 1 and 2), coxsackievirus B4 (CVB4), and hepatitis viruses (HAV and HCV). This in vitro study was aimed at investigating the effectiveness of benzoquinazoline derivatives 1-16 against adenovirus type 7 and bacteriophage phiX174 using a plaque assay. The cytotoxicity against adenovirus type 7 was also performed in vitro, using a MTT assay. Most of the compounds exhibited antiviral activity against bacteriophage phiX174. However, compounds 1, 3, 9, and 11 showed statistically significant reductions of 60-70% against bacteriophage phiX174. By contrast, compounds 3, 5, 7, 12, 13, and 15 were ineffective against adenovirus type 7, and compounds 6 and 16 had remarkable efficacy (50%). Using the MOE-Site Finder Module, a docking study was carried out in order to create a prediction regarding the orientation of the lead compounds (1, 9, and 11). This was performed in order to investigate the activity of the lead compounds 1, 9, and 11 against the bacteriophage phiX174 by locating the ligand-target protein binding interaction active sites.

Synthesis and cytotoxic activities of selenium nanoparticles incorporated nano-chitosan

New system compromising of chitosan nanoparticles encapsulated pre-synthesized selenium nanoparticles in the presence of 5-fluorouracil was successfully prepared and used for cancer antiproliferation. Selenium nanoparticles were synthesized using ascorbic acid as reducing agent under mild condition. Chitosan nanoparticles were prepared via ionic gelation technique using sodium tri-polyphosphate. Characterization of the prepared nanoparticles was carried out using FTIR, TEM, XRD, TGA and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The results displayed the formation of selenium nanoparticles with an average size 20 nm and chitosan nanoparticles with an average size 207 and 250 nm for neat nano-chitosan and chitosan incorporated 5-fluorouracil/selenium nanoparticles, respectively. The encapsulated nanocomposites were tested for treatment of cancer cell of human colorectal carcinoma (HCT-116), human liver carcinoma (HepG-2), and human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7. The results indicated the potent cytotoxic activities of all nanocomposite toward the tested cells with enhanced anticancer activity rather than the single drug or neat selenium nanoparticle. All composites were tested against non-tumor fibroblast-derived cell line (BJ) and demonstrated very low cytotoxicity.

Evaluation of Some Benzo[g]Quinazoline Derivatives as Antiviral Agents against Human Rotavirus Wa Strain: Biological Screening and Docking Study

Globally, rotavirus (RV) is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis in infants and toddlers; however, there are currently no agents available that are tailored to treat rotavirus infection in particular. Improved and widespread immunization programs are being implemented worldwide to reduce rotavirus morbidity and mortality. Despite certain immunizations, there are no licensed antivirals that can attack rotavirus in hosts. Benzoquinazolines, chemical components synthesized in our laboratory, were developed as antiviral agents, and showed good activity against herpes simplex, coxsackievirus B4 and hepatitis A and C. In this research project, an in vitro investigation of the effectiveness of benzoquinazoline derivatives 1–16 against human rotavirus Wa strains was carried out. All compounds exhibited antiviral activity, however compounds 1–3, 9 and 16 showed the greatest activity (reduction percentages ranged from 50 to 66%). In-silico molecular docking of highly active compounds, which were selected after studying the biological activity of all investigated of benzo[g]quinazolines compounds, was implemented into the protein’s putative binding site to establish an optimal orientation for binding. As a result, compounds 1, 3, 9, and 16 are promising anti-rotavirus Wa strains that lead with Outer Capsid protein VP4 inhibition.

Novel imino-thiazoloquinoxaline derivatives against renal cell carcinoma: less radiation-damaging approach

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most fatal tumor in the urinary system. Resistance development and unmet effective responses, request new anticancer agents with better therapeutic index. Ten new imino-thiazolo-quinoxaline derivatives (5a-j) were synthesized and preliminary evaluated for downregulation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) activity taking sorafenib as a reference drug. Compounds 5d & 5h showed potent inhibition to VEGFR-2 activity at IC50 89.35 nM & 60.64 nM, respectively, then they both were further evaluated in-vitro against urinary bladder cancer cell line T-24 taking sorafenib as a reference drug. Compound 5h displayed nearly anticancer activity to sorafenib against T-24 cell line in all concentrations tested except at concentration 10 µM where it highly suppressed cell viability to 6.71 % compared to 15.15% of sorafenib. Compound 5h was then evaluated for its ameliorative efect against radiation induced renal tissue injury. Assessment of pro-angiogenic (VEGFR-2), pro-fibrotic (transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1)) and apoptotic (caspase-3) markers, as well as histopathological examinations were performed on kidney of irradiated mice. Results showed ability of compound 5h to downregulate VEGFR-2 activity and its cytotoxic effect against RCC, in addition to mitigation of radiation induced renal tissue injury. Ethyl imino-thiazoloquinoxaline carboxylate derivative 5h showed a potential cytotoxic activity against RCC and could be considered a promosing alleviative candidate when employed post radiotherapy regimen.

Graphical Abstract

Significant pharmacological activities of benzoquinazolines scaffold

Benzoquinazolines, the essential constituents of numerous well-known heterocyclic systems, have occupied a prominent position and played a significant part in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds. The wide range of pharmacological effects attributed to benzoquinazolines has been the subject of extensive study. These include their roles as anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-monoamine oxidase, anticonvulsant, antiviral, antinociceptive, antioxidant, antineoplastic, antituberculosis, antiplatelet, and antiphlogistic agents. This work provides an attempt at a literature review of the pharmacological activities of benzoquinazoline derivatives, including an up-to-date account of recent research findings, and suggests avenues for future exploration in the pursuit of more potent and specific analogues for a wide range of biological targets using this platform.

Design, Synthesis, Anticancer Activity and Molecular Docking of New 1,2,3-Triazole-Based Glycosides Bearing 1,3,4-Thiadiazolyl, Indolyl and Arylacetamide Scaffolds

New 1,3,4-thiadiazole thioglycosides linked to a substituted arylidine system were synthesized via heterocyclization via click 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition. The click strategy was used for the synthesis of new 1,3,4-thiadiazole and 1,2,3-triazole hybrid glycoside-based indolyl systems as novel hybrid molecules by reacting azide derivatives with the corresponding acetylated glycosyl terminal acetylenes. The cytotoxic activities of the compounds were studied against HCT-116 (human colorectal carcinoma) and MCF-7 (human breast adenocarcinoma) cell lines using the MTT assay. The results showed that the key thiadiazolethione compounds, the triazole glycosides linked to p-methoxyarylidine derivatives and the free hydroxyl glycoside had potent activity comparable to the reference drug, doxorubicin, against MCF-7 human cancer cells. Docking simulation studies were performed to check the binding patterns of the synthesized compounds. Enzyme inhibition assay studies were also conducted for the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and the results explained the activity of a number of derivatives.

Preparation, Characterization and In vitro Biological activity of 5-Fluorouracil Loaded onto poly (D, L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) Nanoparticles

Nanoscale devices offer a lot of potential in drug delivery because of their small size. The goal of this work was to increase the oral bioavailability of the anti-cancer hydrophilic drug as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) by incorporating it into poly (D, L-lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (PLGNPs) using the double emulsion process, 5-FU- PLGNPs nanoparticles were created. Various factors, such as drug, polymer, and stabilizer concentrations, were investigated for assembly in order to arrive at the most effective formulation of 5-FU-PLGNPs. PLGNPs had a drug encapsulation efficiency of 9.75 to 24.8%. The prepared nanoparticles had a spherical shape and an average size of 212.3–285 nm, as shown by TEM. The dispersion of the drug into the prepared PLGNPs was confirmed by XRPD and FTIR. The optimized nanoparticles (F225) had high encapsulation efficiency 24.8 ± 0.21%, low particles size 212.3 ± 48.2 nm with an appropriate PDI value of 0.448, and ZP of − 48.3 ± 2.7 mV. The molecular dispersion of the medication within the system was validated by thermal behavior studies (DSC). In vitro drug release from the best-selected formulations revealed a sustained release of nanoparticles, with slower release reported when lower PVA concentrations were utilized. Three 5-FU-PLGNPs formulations were tested for anticancer efficacy against cell cultures of HCT-116 (human colorectal carcinoma), MCF-7 (human breast carcinoma), and HepG2 (human hepatocellular carcinoma). The created formulations were examined for in vitro cytotoxic activity, revealing that they appeared to be promising effective anticancer formulations when compared to the positive controlled (doxorubicin).

Antiproliferative Activity of Some Newly Synthesized Substituted Nicotinamides Candidates Using Pyridine-2(1H) thione Derivatives as Synthon

Some new pyridinethione and thienopyridine derivatives have been synthesized and evaluated for their antiproliferative activity using the MTT assay. Nicotinamide derivatives 3 have been synthesized and used for the preparation of new condensed thieno [2,3-b]pyridines by their reactions with active halo compounds. Finally the synthesized thienopyridine underwent ring closure whenever possible through boiling in a solution of sodium ethoxide. The antiproliferative evaluation against (HCT-116, HepG-2, and MCF-7) human cancer cells and one human healthy cell line (BJ-1) revealed that compounds 3b, 4c-5d, 7b-12a, 10d, and 13b have interesting antitumor activity specifically as antihepatocellular and anticolon cellular carcinoma agents. Besides, the docking results for most active derivatives were in agreement with the in vitro antitumor results.

Bioactive compounds from Matricaria chamomilla: structure identification, in vitro antiproliferative, antimigratory, antiangiogenic, and antiadenoviral activities

During our exploring the anticancer activity of some medicinal plants and their major metabolites, the aerial parts of the Egyptian Matricaria chamomilla (flowers and stems) were studied. GC-MS analysis of the organic soluble extracts of the flowers and stems fractions revealed the presence of 43 and 45 compounds, respectively. Individual chromatographic purification of the flowers and stems' extracts afforded three major compounds. Structures of these compounds were identified by 1D- and 2D-NMR and HRESI-MS spectroscopic data as bisabolol oxide A (1) and (E)-tonghaosu (2) (as mixture of ratio 2:1) from the flowers extract, meanwhile apigenin-7-β-d-glucoside (3) from the stems fraction. Biologically, the chamomile extracts announced significant antiproliferative activities exceeded in potency by ∼1.5 fold in case of the stem, recording GI₅₀ 13.16 and 17.04 μg/mL against Caco-2 and MCF-7, respectively. Both fractions were approximately equipotent against the migration of the same cell type down to 10 μg/mL together, compounds 1, 2 but not 3, showed considerable growth inhibition of the same cells at GI₅₀ 13.36 and 11.83 μg/mL, respectively. Interestingly, they were able to suppress Caco-2 colon cancer cells migration at 5.8 μg/mL and potently inactivate the VEGFR2 angiogenic enzyme (1.5-fold relative to sorafenib. The obtained compounds and corresponding chamomile extracts were evaluated against Adeno-7 virus, revealing that both chamomiles' extracts (flowers and stems) and their corresponding obtained compounds (1-3) were potent in their depletion to the Adeno 7 infectivity titer, however, the flower extract and compounds 1-2 were more effective than those of the stem extract and its end-product (3).

In vitro chemotherapeutic and antiangiogenic properties of cardenolides from Acokanthera oblongifolia (Hochst.) Codd

Acovenoside A (Acov-A) and acobioside A (Acob-A) were isolated from Acokanthera oblongifolia. Their anticancer properties were explored regarding, antiproliferative and antiangiogenic activities. The study included screening phase against six cancer cell lines followed by mechanistic investigation against HepG2 cancer cell line. The sulforhodamine-B (SRB) was used to determine their growth inhibitory power. In the other hand, flow cytometry techniques were recorded the cell death type and cell cycle analysis. The clonogenic (colony formation) and wound healing assays, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and molecular docking, were performed to evaluate the antiangiogenesis capability. Both compounds were strongly, inhibited four cancer cell lines at GI₅₀ less than 100 nM. The in vitro mechanistic investigation against HepG2 resulted in cell accumulations at G2M phase and induction of apoptosis upon treating cells separately, with 400 nM Acov-A and 200 nM Acob-A. Interestingly, the same concentrations were able to activate caspase-3 by 7.2 and 4.8-fold, respectively. Suppressing the clonogenic capacity of HepG2 cells (20 and 40 nM) and inhibiting the migration of the colon Caco-2 cancer cells were provoke the results of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor2 (VEGFR2) kinase enzyme inactivation. The docked study was highly supportive, to the antiangiogenic approach of both cardenolides. The isolated cardenolides could orchestrate pivotal events in fighting cancer.