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Abstract Inspired by the common structural characteristics of numerous known antitumor compounds targeting DNA or topoisomerase I, 3-(benzazol-2-yl)-quinoxaline-based scaffold was designed via the combination of two important privileged structure units —quinoxaline and benzazole. Thirty novel 3-(benzazol-2-yl)-quinoxaline derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their biological activities. The MTT assay indicated that most compounds possessed moderate to potent antiproliferation effects against MGC-803, HepG2, A549, HeLa, T-24 and WI-38 cell lines. 3-(Benzoxazol- -2-yl)-2-(N-3-dimethylaminopropyl)aminoquinoxaline (12a) exhibited the most potent cytotoxicity, with IC 50 values ranging from 1.49 to 10.99 μM against the five tested cancer and one normal cell line. Agarose-gel electrophoresis assays suggested that 12a did not interact with intact DNA, but rather it strongly inhibited topoisomerase I (Topo I) via Topo I-mediated DNA unwinding to exert its anticancer activity. The molecular modeling study indicated that 12a adopt a unique mode to interact with DNA and Topo I. Detailed biological study of 12a in MGC-803 cells revealed that 12a could arrest the cell cycle in G2 phase, inducing the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the fluctuation of intracellular Ca2+, and the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Western Blot analysis indicated that 12a -treatment could significantly up-regulate the levels of pro-apoptosis proteins Bak, Bax, and Bim, down-regulate anti-apoptosis proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl, and increase levels of cyclin B1 and CDKs inhibitor p21, cytochrome c , caspase-3, caspase-9 and their activated form in MGC-803 cells in a dose-dependent manner to induce cell apoptosis via a caspase-dependent intrinsic mitochondria-mediated pathway. Studies in MGC-803 xenograft tumors models demonstrated that 12a could significantly reduce tumor growth in vivo at doses as low as 6 mg/kg with low toxicity. Its convenient preparation and potent anticancer efficacy in vivo makes the 3-(benzazol-2-yl)quinoxaline scaffold a promising new chemistry entity for the development of novel chemotherapeutic agents. Graphical abstract Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven isatin derivatives have been designed, and their chemical structures were characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction studies, 1 H NMR, MS, and elemental analysis. Structural stabilization followed by intramolecular as well as intermolecular H-bonds makes these molecules as perfect examples in molecular recognition with self-complementary donor and acceptor units within a single molecule. These compounds were evaluated for antimicrobial activities. Docking simulations have been performed to position compounds into the FtsZ active site to determine their probable binding models. All of the compounds exhibited better antibacterial activities. Interestingly, compound 5c and 5d exhibited better antibacterial activities with IC 50 values of 0.03 and 0.05 μmol/mL against Staphylococcus aureus , respectively. Compound 5g displays antibacterial activity with IC 50 values of 0.672 and 0.830 μmol/mL against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa , respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association of deregulated signal pathways with various diseases has long been a research hotspot. One of the most important signal pathways, the MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) signal pathway, plays a vital role in transducing extracellular signals into vital intracellular mechanisms. While mutations on its key component Raf kinase lead to sever diseases, targeted inhibition has thereby become an attractive therapeutic strategy. Several drugs have been approved for the treatment of Raf relevant diseases, yet more candidates are ever needed as the known drugs have confronted resistance and side effects. In the present study, we primarily investigated the binding modes of type I/II and type II inhibitors with B-Raf kinase. Based on the current knowledge, these ligands were fragmented and recombined to provide new interesting insights. Afterwards, a series of derivatives has been synthesized after the validation of hit compound. In addition, in vitro assays were carried out to profile the pharmacological properties of all the entities. Of all the compounds, compound 5h showed the best profile and may be used in the future study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 is a constitutively activated oncogenic protein in various human tumors and represents a valid target for anticancer drug design. In this study, we have achieved a new type of STAT3 inhibitors based on structural modifications on shikonin scaffold, guided by computational modelling. By tests, PMMB-187 exhibited a more outstanding profile than shikonin on a small panel of human breast cancer cells, especially for the MDA-MB-231 cells. For the cellular mechanisms research, PMMB-187 was found to induce cell apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells, associated with the reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential, production of ROS and alteration of the levels of apoptosis-related proteins. Furthermore, PMMB-187 inhibited constitutive/inducible STAT3 activation, transcriptional activity, nuclear translocation and downstream target genes expression in STAT3-dependent breast cancer cells MDA-MB-231. Besides, no obvious inhibitory effect on activation of STAT1 and STAT5 was observed with PMMB-187 treatment. Most notably, the in vivo studies further revealed that PMMB-187 could dramatically suppress the MDA-MB-231 cells xenografted tumor growth. The in vitro and in vivo results collectively suggest that PMMB-187 may serve as a promising lead compound for the further development of potential therapeutic anti-neoplastic agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New series of chrysin derivatives ( 4a- 4t) were designed and synthesized by introducing different substituted piperazines at C-7 position. Their inhibitory effects on FabH were evaluated using two Gram-negative bacterial strains, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and two Gram-positive bacterial strains, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. To our delight, most of these compounds exhibited a dramatic increase in inhibitory potency, compared with the control positive drugs. Among them, compound 4s exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 5.78 ± 0.24 μ m inhibiting E. coli FabH and potent antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli with MIC of 1.25 ± 0.01, 1.15 ± 0.12 μg/mL, respectively, comparing to the control positive drugs penicillin G (7.56 ± 0.30 μ m). Docking simulation was performed to position compound 4s into the FabH active site, and the result showed that compound 4s could bind well with the FabH as potent FabH inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an important enzyme in bacterial protein biosynthesis, tyrosyl-t RNA synthetase ( Tyr RS) has been an absorbing therapeutic target for exploring novel antibacterial agents. A series of metronidazole-based antibacterial agents has been synthesized and identified as Tyr RS inhibitors with low cytotoxicity and significant antibacterial activity, especially against Gram-negative organisms. Of the compounds obtained, 4f is the most potent agent which inhibited the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 13525 ( MIC = 0.98 μg/mL) and exhibited Try RS inhibitory activity ( IC50 = 0.92 μ m). Docking simulation was performed to further understand its potency. Membrane-mediated apoptosis in P. aeruginosa was verified by flow cytometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel ( E )-1,3-diphenyl-1 H -pyrazole derivatives containing O-benzyl oxime moiety were firstly synthesized and their immunosuppressive activities were evaluated. Among all the compounds, 4n exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity (IC 50 = 1.18 μ M for lymph node cells and IC 50 = 0.28 μ M for PI3Kγ), which was comparable to that of positive control. Moreover, selected compounds were tested for their inhibitory activities against IL-6 released in ConA-simulated mouse lymph node cells, 4n exhibited the most potent inhibitory ability. Furthermore, in order to study the preliminary mechanism of the compounds with potent inhibitory activity, the RT-PCR experiment was performed to assay the effect of selected compounds on mRNA expression of IL-6. Among them, compound 4n strongly inhibited the expression of IL-6 mRNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New series of sulfonamide derivatives containing a dihydropyrazole moieties inhibitors of MMP-2/MMP-9 were discovered using structure-based drug design. Synthesis, antitumor activity, structure–activity relationship and optimization of physicochemical properties were described. In vitro the bioassay results revealed that most target compounds showed potent inhibitory activity in the enzymatic and cellular assays. Among the compounds, compound 3i exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity with IC 50 values of 0.21 μM inhibiting MMP-2 and 1.87 μM inhibiting MMP-9, comparable to the control positive compound CMT-1 (1.26 μM, 2.52 μM). Docking simulation was performed to position compound 3i into the MMP-2 active site to determine the probable binding pose. Docking simulation was further performed to position compound 3i into the MMP-2 active site to determine the probable binding model the 3D-QSAR models were built for reasonable design of MMP-2/MMP-9 inhibitors at present and in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four novel complexes, [Cu( L)2(NH3)2(H2O)2] ( 1), {[Cu( L)2(H2O)2] ·2H2O} n ( 2), {[Zn( L)2(H2O)2] ·2H2O} n ( 3), and {[Fe( L)2(H2O)2] ·2H2O} n ( 4) (H L = 2-{[4-amino-3-(pyridin-4-yl)-4,5-dihydro-1 H-1,2,4-triazol-5-yl]thio}acetic acid) were synthesized and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Complex 1 exhibited a mononuclear structure. Complexes 2, 3, and 4 featured 2D networks. The crystal structures were stabilized by intermolecular hydrogen bonds to generate 3D supramolecular frameworks. The inhibitory activity was tested in vitro against jack bean urease. Among the four complexes, the two CuII complexes 1 and 2 exhibited better inhibitory activity than the positive reference acetohydroxamic acid, with IC50 values of 4.052 and 6.868 μ M, respectively, whereas the ZnII and FeII complexes showed no activity. To explore the mechanism of inhibition of the enzyme, kinetics studies were carried out; the results indicated that both the activated complexes 1 and 2 operated through a mixed-competitive inhibitory mechanism. Molecular docking was used to insert the most active complex 1 into the crystal structure of jack bean urease at the active site to determine the probable mode of binding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel 5-phenyl-1 H -pyrazol derivatives ( 5a – 5x ) containing cinnamamide moiety were synthesized and their biological activities as potential tubulin polymerization inhibitors were evaluated. Among them, compound 5j exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity with an IC 50 value of 1.02 μM for tubulin, which was superior to that of Colchicine (IC50 = 1.34 μM). Docking simulation was performed to insert compound 5j into the crystal structure of tubulin at colchicine binding site to determine the probable binding model. 3D-QSAR model was also built to provide more pharmacophore understanding that could be used to design new agents with more potent tubulin inhibitory activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of metronidazole–thiazole derivatives has been designed, synthesized and evaluated as potential antibacterial inhibitors. All the synthesized compounds were determined by elemental analysis, 1 H NMR and MS. They were also tested for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli , Bacillus thuringiensis , Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa as well as for the inhibition to FabH. The results showed that compound 5e exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity against E. coli FabH with IC 50 of 4.9 μM. Molecular modeling simulation studies were performed in order to predict the biological activity of proposed compounds. Toxicity assay of compounds 5a , 5b , 5d, 5e , 5g and 5i showed that they were noncytotoxic against human macrophage. The results revealed that these compounds offered remarkable viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel 5-phenyl-1 H -pyrazole derivatives ( 5a – 5u ) containing niacinamide moiety were synthesized and evaluated for biological activity as potential BRAF V600E inhibitors. Among them, compound 5h exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity with an IC 50 value of 0.33 μM for BRAF V600E . Antiproliferative assay results indicated that compound 5h has better antiproliferative activity against WM266.4 and A375 in vitro with IC 50 value of 2.63 and 3.16 μM, respectively, being comparable with the positive control vemurafenib. Molecular docking of 5h into the BRAF V600E active site was performed to determine the probable binding mode. Furthermore, molecular docking and 3D QSAR study by means of DS 3.5 (Discovery Studio 3.5, Accelrys, Co. Ltd) explored the binding modes and the structure and activity relationship (SAR) of these derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of 4-hydroxycoumarin derivatives were designed and synthesized in order to find some more potent antibacterial drugs. Their antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus were tested. These compounds showed good antibacterial activities against Gram-positive strains. Compound 4g represented the most potent antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis and S. aureus with MIC of 0.236, 0.355 μg/mL, respectively. What’s more, it showed the most potent activity against SaFabI with IC 50 of 0.57 μM. Molecular docking of 4g into S. aureus Enoyl-ACP-reductase active site were performed to determine the probable binding mode, while the QSAR model was built to check the previous work as well as to introduce new directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19, an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, emerged globally in early 2020 and has remained a serious public health issue. To date, although several preventative vaccines have been approved by FDA and EMA, vaccinated individuals increasingly suffer from breakthrough infections. Therapeutic antibodies may provide an alternative strategy to neutralize viral infection and treat serious cases; however, the clinical data and our experiments show that some FDA-approved monoclonal antibodies lose function against COVID-19 variants such as Omicron. Therefore, in this study, we present a novel therapeutic agent, SI–F019, an ACE2-Fc fusion protein whose neutralization efficiency is not compromised, but actually strengthened, by the mutations of dominant variants including Omicron. Comprehensive biophysical analyses revealed the mechanism of increased inhibition to be enhanced interaction of SI–F019 with all the tested spike variants, in contrast to monoclonal antibodies which tended to show weaker binding to some variants. The results imply that SI–F019 may be a broadly useful agent for treatment of COVID-19. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: 3-Arylfuran-2(5H)-one, a novel antibacterial pharmacophore targeting tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase (TyrRS), was hybridized with the clinically used fluoroquinolones to give a series of novel multi-target antimicrobial agents. Thus, twenty seven 3-arylfuran-2(5H)-one-fluoroquinolone hybrids were synthesized and evaluated for their antimicrobial activities. Some of the hybrids exhibited merits from both parents, displaying a broad spectrum of activity against resistant strains including both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. The most potent compound (11) in antibacterial assay shows MIC50 of 0.11μg/mL against Multiple drug resistant Escherichia coli, being about 51-fold more potent than ciprofloxacin. The enzyme assays reveal that 11 is a potent multi-target inhibitor with IC50 of 1.15±0.07μM against DNA gyrase and 0.12±0.04μM against TyrRS, respectively. Its excellent inhibitory activities against isolated enzymes and intact cells strongly suggest that 11 deserves to further research as a novel antibiotic. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Based on a rationally conceived pharmacophore model to build a multi-target bacterial topoisomerase inhibitor, twenty-one fluoroquinolone–flavonoid hybrids were synthesized. Some obtained hybrids show excellent antibacterial activity against drug-resistant microorganisms with narigenin–ciprofloxacin being the most active, showing 8, 43, 23 and 88 times better activity than ciprofloxacin against Escherichia coli ATCC 35218, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Candida albicans ATCC 90873, respectively. Drug accumulation and DNA supercoiling assays of two active analogues revealed potent inhibition of both the DNA gyrase and efflux pump, confirming the desired dual mode of action. Molecular docking study disclosed that the introduced flavonoid moiety not only provides several additional interactions but also does not disturb the binding mode of the floxacin moiety. Our data also demonstrated that development of antifungals is possible from fluoroquinolones modified at C-7 position. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of novel schiff base derivatives (H1 –H20 ) containing pyrazine and triazole moiety have been designed and synthesized, and their biological activities were also evaluated as potential inhibitors of β-ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein synthase III (FabH). These compounds were assayed for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and selected compounds among them were tested for their Escherichia coli FabH inhibitory activity. Based on the biological data, compound H17 showed the most potent antibacterial activity with MIC values of 0.39–1.56μg/mL against the tested bacterial strains and exhibited the most potent E. coli FabH inhibitory activity with IC50 of 5.2μM, being better than the positive control Kanamycin B with IC50 of 6.3μM. Furthermore, docking simulation was performed to position compound H17 into the E. coli FabH active site to determine the probable binding conformation. This study indicated that compound H17 has demonstrated significant E. coli FabH inhibitory activity as a potential antibacterial agent and provides valuable information for the design of E. coli FabH inhibitors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of novel 1-(2-hydroxypropyl)-2-styryl-5-nitroimidazole derivatives had been designed, synthesized, isolated and evaluated as potentiators of antibacterial agents. All these synthesized compounds were determined by elemental analysis, 1H NMR, and MS. Their biological activities were also evaluated against two Gram-negative bacterial strains: Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and two Gram-positive bacterial strains: Bacillus thuringiensis and Bacillus subtilis by MTT method as potential FabH inhibitory. The results showed that compound 30 exhibited the most potent E. coli FabH inhibitory activity with IC50 of 4.6 μM. Molecular modeling simulation studies were performed in order to predict the biological activities of the proposed compounds. All compounds have been tested for toxicity by MTT assay on human macrophage. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: FabH, β-ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) synthase III, is critically important to the initiation of fatty acid biosynthesis and is highly conserved among Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. A series of novel secnidazole derivatives (1–20) were synthesized and fully characterized by spectroscopic methods and elemental analysis. Among these compounds, 6, 8, 11, 13, 14, 16–20 were reported for the first time. These compounds were tested for antibacterial activities against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. The compounds inhibitory assay and docking simulation indicated that compound 20 (E)-2-(2-methyl-5-nitro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)-N′-(3,4,5-trimethylbenzylidene)acetohydrazide with MIC of 3.13–6.25μg/mL against the tested bacterial strains was a potent inhibitor of Escherichia coli FabH. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two series of novel naphthalin-containing pyrazoline derivatives C1–C14 and D1–D14 have been synthesized and evaluated for their EGFR/HER-2 inhibitory and anti-proliferation activities. Compound D14 displayed the most potent activity against EGFR and A549 cell line (IC50 =0.05μM and GI50 =0.11μM), being comparable with the positive control Erlotinib (IC50 =0.03μM and GI50 =0.03μM) and more potent than our previous compounds C0–A (IC50 =5.31μM and GI50 =33.47μM) and C0–B (IC50 =0.09μM and GI50 =0.34μM). Meanwhile, compound C14 displayed the most potent activity against HER-2 and MCF-7 cell line (IC50 =0.88μM and GI50 =0.35μM), being a little less potent than Erlotinib (IC50 =0.16μM and GI50 =0.08μM) but far more potent than C0–A (IC50 =6.58μM and GI50 =27.62μM) and C0–B (IC50 =2.77μM and GI50 =3.79μM). The docking simulation was performed to analyze the probable binding models and the QSAR models were built for reasonable design of EGFR/HER-2 inhibitors at present and in future. The structural modification of introducing naphthalin moiety reinforced the combination of our compounds and the receptor, resulting in progress of bioactivity. Moreover, the replacement of thiourea skeleton by using benzene ring resulted in the slight diversity of the two series towards specific targets. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Three series of novel heterocyclic azoles derivatives containing pyrazine (5a–5k, 8a–8k and 11a–11k) have been designed, synthesized, structurally determined, and their biological activities were evaluated as potential telomerase inhibitors. Among the oxadiazole derivatives, compound 5c showed the most potent biological activity against SW1116 cancer cell line (IC50 =2.46μM against SW1116 and IC50 =3.55μM for telomerase). Compound 8h performed the best in the thiadiazole derivatives (IC50 =0.78μM against HEPG2 and IC50 =1.24μM for telomerase), which was comparable to the positive control. While compound 11f showed the most potent biological activity (IC50 =4.12μM against SW1116 and IC50 =15.03μM for telomerase) among the triazole derivatives. Docking simulation by positioning compounds 5c, 8h and 11f into the telomerase structure active site was performed to explore the possible binding model. The results of apoptosis demonstrated that compound 8h possessed good antitumor activity against HEPG2 cancer cell line. Therefore, compound 8h with potent inhibitory activity in tumor growth inhibition may be a potential antitumor agent against HEPG2 cancer cell. Therefore, the introduction of oxadiazole, thiadiazole and triazole structures reinforced the combination of our compounds and the receptor, resulting in progress of bioactivity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fatty acid biosynthesis is essential for bacterial survival. FabH, β-ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) synthase III, is a particularly attractive target, since it is central to the initiation of fatty acid biosynthesis and is highly conserved among Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. A series of acylhydrazone derivatives were synthesized and developed as potent inhibitors of FabH. This inhibitor class demonstrates strong broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. Compounds with potent antibacterial activities were tested for their Escherichia coli FabH inhibitory activity. Especially, compound E9 showed the most potent antibacterial activity with MIC values of 0.39–1.56 μg/mL against the tested bacterial strains and exhibited the most potent E. coli FabH inhibitory activity with IC50 of 2.5 μM. Docking simulation was performed to position compound E9 into the E. coli FabH active site to determine the probable binding conformation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two series of novel 2,3-dihydrobenzo[b][1,4]dioxin-containing 4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazole derivatives C1–C15 and D1–D15 have been synthesized and evaluated for their B-Raf inhibitory and anti-proliferation activities. Compound C14 ((3-(4-bromophenyl)-5-(2-fluorophenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)(2,3-dihydrobenzo[b][1,4]dioxin-6-yl)methanone) showed the most potent biological activity against B-RafV600E (IC50 =0.11μM) and WM266.4 human melanoma cell line (GI50 =0.58μM), being comparable with the positive control Erlotinib and more potent than our previous best compound, while D10 ((2,3-dihydrobenzo[b][1,4]dioxin-2-yl)(5-(3-fluorophenyl)-3-phenyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)methanone) performed the best in the D series (IC50 =1.70μM; GI50 =1.45μM). The docking simulation was performed to analyze the probable binding models and poses and the QSAR model was built for reasonable design of B-Raf inhibitors in future. The introduction of 2,3-dihydrobenzo[b][1,4]dioxin structure reinforced the combination of our compounds and the receptor, resulting in progress of bioactivity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of N-((1,3-diphenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)methyl)aniline derivatives (5a–8d) have been designed and synthesized, and their biological activities were also evaluated as potential antitumor and cyclin dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) inhibitors. Among all the compounds, compound 5a displayed the most potent CDK2/cyclin E inhibitory activity in vitro, with an IC50 of 0.98±0.06μM. Antitumor assays indicated that compound 5a owned high antiproliferative activity against MCF-7 and B16-F10 cancer cell lines with IC50 values of 1.88±0.11 and 2.12±0.15μM, respectively. Docking simulation was performed to insert compound 5a into the crystal structure of CDK2 at active site to determine the probable binding model. Based on the preliminary results, compound 5a with potent inhibitory activity in tumor growth may be a potential anticancer agent. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of sulfur-containing heterocyclic pyrazoline derivatives (C1–C18; D1–D9) have been synthesized and purified (all are new except one) to be screened for FabH inhibitory activity. Compound C14 showed the most potent biological activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis (MIC values: 1.56–3.13μg/mL), being comparable with the positive control, while D6 performed the best in the thiazolidinone series (MIC values: 3.13–6.25μg/mL). They also demonstrated strong broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Compounds C14 and D6 exhibited the most potent E. coli FabH inhibitory activity with IC50 of 4.6 and 8.4μM, respectively, comparable with the positive control DDCP (IC50 =2.8μM). Docking simulation was performed to position compound C14 and D6 into the E. coli FabH structure active site to determine the probable binding model. The structurally modification of previous compounds and the attempt in innovative target have brought a positive progress. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of novel chalcone derivatives have been designed and synthesized, and their biological activities were also evaluated as potential inhibitors of tubulin. These compounds were assayed for growth-inhibitory activity against MCF-7 and A549 cell lines in vitro. Compound 3d showed the most potent antiproliferative activity against MCF-7 and A549 cell lines with IC50 values of 0.03 and 0.95μg/mL and exhibited the most potent tubulin inhibitory activity with IC50 of 1.42μg/mL. Docking simulation was performed to insert compound 3d into the crystal structure of tubulin at colchicines binding site to determine the probable binding model. Based on the preliminary results, compound 3d with potent inhibitory activity in tumor growth may be a potential anticancer agent. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Activating mutations in the BRAF serine/threonine kinase are found in more than 70% of human melanomas, >90% of which are BRAFV600E. It provides new therapeutic opportunities in malignant melanoma. In silico and in vitro screening of our compound collection has identified Hit 2 as BRAFV600E inhibitor. Based on its structure, a series of novel (E)-α-benzylsulfonyl chalcone derivatives (13–40) were designed and synthesized. Compound 38 exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 0.17 μM for BRAFV600E and GI50 value of 0.52 μM for mutant BRAF-dependent cells. The results of cell based pERK activity and cellular selectivity suggested that those compounds could selectively inhibit proliferation of mutant BRAF-dependent melanoma cell line through inhibition of oncogenic BRAF. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of novel N-phenylsulfonylnicotinamide derivatives (1–24) have been synthesized and evaluated as potential EGFR tyrosine kinase (TK) inhibitors. Among all the compounds, compound 10 (5-bromo-N-(4-chlorophenylsulfonyl)nicotinamide) showed the most potent growth inhibitory activity against EGFR TK and antiproliferative activity of MCF-7 cancer cell line in vitro, with IC50 value of 0.09 and 0.07μM. Docking simulation was performed to insert compound 10 into the EGFR TK active site to determine the probable binding model. Based on the preliminary results, compound 10 with potent inhibitory activity to tumor growth may be a potential anticancer agent. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A total of 20 novel 1,3,4-oxadiazoline analogs (6a–6t) of combretastatin A-4 with naphthalene ring were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for biological activities as potential tubulin polymerization inhibitors. Among these compounds, 6n showed the most potent antiproliferative activities against multiple cancer cell lines and retained the microtubule disrupting effects. Docking simulation was performed to insert compound 6n into the crystal structure of tubulin to determine the probable binding model. These results indicated oxadiazoline compounds bearing the naphthyl moiety are promising tubulin inhibitors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A type of novel 4,6-substituted-(diaphenylamino)quinazolines, which designed based on the 4-(phenylamino)quinazoline moiety, have been discovered as potential EGFR inhibitors. These compounds displayed good antiproliferative activity and EGFR-TK inhibitory activity. Especially, 4-((4-(3-bromophenylamino)quinazolin-6-ylamino)methyl)phenol (5b), showed the most potent inhibitory activity (IC50 =0.28μM for Hep G2, IC50 =0.59μM for A16-F10 and IC50 =0.87μM for EGFR) and effectively induces apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner in the Hep G2 cell line. Molecular docking of 5b into EGFR TK active site was also performed. This inhibitor nicely fitting the active site might well explain its excellent inhibitory activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of 2-(benzylthio)-5-aryloxadiazole derivatives have been designed and synthesized, and their biological activities are also evaluated for EGFR inhibitory activity. Fourteen compounds among the twenty compounds are reported for the first time. Their chemical structures are characterized by 1H NMR, MS, and elemental analysis. Anti-proliferative and EGFR inhibition assay results have demonstrated that compound 3e shows the most potent biological activity (IC50 = 1.09 μM for MCF-7 and IC50 = 1.51 μM for EGFR). Docking simulation has been performed to position compound 3e into the EGFR active site to determine the probable binding model, with an estimated binding free energy value of −10.7 kcal/mol. Compound 3e with potent inhibitory activity in tumor growth inhibition may be a promising anti-tumor leading compound for the further research. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of pyridine acyl sulfonamide derivatives (1–24) have been designed and synthesized and their biological activities were also evaluated as potential cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors. Among all the compounds, compound 23 displayed the most potent COX-2 inhibitory activity with an IC50 of 0.8μM. Antitumor and anti-inflammatory assays indicated that compound 23 owned high antiproliferative activity against B16-F10, HepG2 and MCF-7 cancer cell lines as well as COX-2-derived prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) inhibitory activity of murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cell line with IC50 values of 2.8, 1.2, 1.8 and 0.15μM, respectively. Docking simulation was performed to position compound 23 into the COX-2 active site to determine the probable binding model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of 1,2,4-triazole derivatives containing 1,4-benzodioxan (5a–5q) have been designed, synthesized, structurally determined, and their biological activities were evaluated as potential MetAP2 inhibitors. All the synthesized compounds were first reported. Among the compounds, compound 5k showed the most potent biological activity against HEPG2 cancer cell line (IC50 =0.81μM for HEPG2 and IC50 =0.93μM for MetAP2), which was comparable to the positive control. Docking simulation by positioning compound 5k into the MetAP2 structure active site was performed to explore the possible binding model. The results of apoptosis and Western-blot assay demonstrated that compound 5k possessed good antitumor activity against HEPG2 cancer cell line. Therefore, compound 5k with potent inhibitory activity in tumor growth inhibition may be a potential antitumor agent against HEPG2 cancer cell. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of novel Schiff base derivatives have been designed and synthesized, and their biological activities were also evaluated as potential inhibitors of FabH. These compounds were assayed for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. Compounds with potent antibacterial activities were tested for their E. coli FabH inhibitory activity. Compound 3v showed the most potent antibacterial activity with MIC of 1.56–6.25μg/mL against the tested bacterial strains and exhibited the most potent E. coli FabH inhibitory activity with IC50 of 4.3μM. Docking simulation was performed to position compound 3v into the E. coli FabH active site to determine the probable binding conformation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: FabH, β-ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) synthase III, is a particularly attractive target, since it is central to the initiation of fatty acid biosynthesis and is highly conserved among Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. A series of o-hydroxybenzylamines 1–16 and its corresponding new urea derivatives 17–32 were synthesized and fully characterized by spectroscopic methods and elemental analysis. This new urea derivatives class demonstrates strong antibacterial activity. Escherichia coli FabH inhibitory assay and docking simulation indicated that the compounds 1-(5-bromo-2-hydroxybenzyl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-phenylurea (18) and 1-(5-bromo-2-hydroxybenzyl)-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-phenylurea (20) were potent inhibitors of E. coli FabH. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of novel N-phenylacetyl (sulfonyl) 4,5-dihydropyrazole derivatives as potential telomerase inhibitors were synthesized. The bioassay tests show that compound 4a exhibited high activity against human gastric cancer cell SGC-7901, liver cancer Hep-G2 and human prostate PC-3 cell lines with IC50 values of 21.23±0.99, 29.43±0.32 and 30.89±1.07μM, respectively. All title compounds were assayed for telomerase inhibition by a modified TRAP assay, the results show that compound 4a can inhibit telomerase with IC50 value of 4.0±0.32μM. Docking simulation was performed to position compound 4a into the telomerase (3DU6) active site to determine the probable binding model. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Twenty new Schiff bases were synthesized by reacting 5-fluoro-salicylaldehyde and primary amine as potent inhibitors of FabH. These compounds were assayed for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas fluorescence, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. Compounds with potent antibacterial activities were tested for their E. coli FabH inhibitory activity. (E)-4-fluoro-2-((4-hydroxyphenethylimino)methyl)phenol (10) showed the most potent antibacterial activity with MIC of 1.56–6.25 μg/mL against the tested bacterial strains and exhibited the most potent E. coli FabH inhibitory activity with IC50 of 2.7 μM. Docking simulation was performed to position compound 10 into the E. coli FabH active site to determine the probable binding conformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Fatty acid biosynthesis is essential for bacterial survival. FabH, β-ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) synthase III, is a particularly attractive target, since it is central to the initiation of fatty acid biosynthesis and is highly conserved among Gram-positive and -negative bacteria. Fifty-six 1-acetyl-3,5-diphenyl-4,5-dihydro-(1H)-pyrazole derivatives were synthesized and developed as potent inhibitors of FabH. This inhibitor class demonstrates strong antibacterial activity. Escherichia coli FabH inhibitory assay and docking simulation indicated that the compounds 1-(5-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)ethanone (12) and 1-(5-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)ethanone (13) were potent inhibitors of E. coli FabH. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: β-Ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein synthase III (FabH) catalyzes the initial step of fatty acid biosynthesis via a type II fatty acid synthase in most bacteria. The important role of this essential enzyme combined with its unique structural features and ubiquitous occurrence in bacteria has made it an attractive new target for the development of new FabH inhibitors. The synthesis and biological evaluation halide-deoxybenzoins derivatives are described in this Letter. Potent FabH inhibitory and selective anti-Gram-negative bacteria activities were observed in deoxybenzoin derivatives. Furthermore, compound 19 was able to reduce the ECE-induced IL-8 production in gastric mucosal cells significantly. Based on the biological data and molecular docking, compound 19 is a potential FabH inhibitor and anti-inflammatory agent deserving further research. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of N-(2-morpholinoethyl)nicotinamide (1–13) and N-(3-morpholinopropyl)nicotinamide derivatives (14–26) have been designed, synthesized and evaluated in vitro for their monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and B inhibitory activity and selectivity. Most of these synthesized compounds proved to be potent, and selective inhibitors of MAO-A rather than of MAO-B. 5-Chloro-6-hydroxy-N-(2-morpholinoethyl)nicotinamide (13) displayed the highest MAO-A inhibitory potency (IC50 =0.045μM) and a good selectivity. 2-Bromo-N-(2-morpholinoethyl)nicotinamide (3) was the most potent MAO-B inhibitor with the IC50 value of 0.32μM, but it was not selective. Molecular dockings of compound 13 were performed in order to give structural insights regarding the MAO-A selectivity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A series of long-chain derivatives of chrysin (compounds 3–22) were synthesized to evaluate for their antiproliferative activities against the human liver cancer cell line HT-29 and EGFR inhibitory activity. Among the compounds tested, compounds hexadecyl 2-(5-hydroxy-4-oxo-2-phenyl-4H-chromen-7-yloxy)acetate (10) and N-hexadecyl 2-(5-hydroxy-4-oxo-2-phenyl-4H-chromen-7-yloxy)acetamide (20) displayed potent EGFR inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 0.048μM and 0.035μM), comparable to the positive control erlotinib. Docking simulation of compounds 10 and 20 was carried out to illustrate the binding mode of the molecular into the EGFR active site, and the result suggested that compound 10 and 20 can bind the EGFR kinase well. Thus, compounds 10 and 20 with potent EGFR inhibitory activity would be potential anticancer agents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fatty acid biosynthesis is essential for bacterial survival. Components of this biosynthetic pathway have been identified as attractive targets for the development of new antibacterial agents. FabH, β-ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) synthase III, is a particularly attractive target, since it is central to the initiation of fatty acid biosynthesis and is highly conserved among Gram positive and negative bacteria. Three series of Schiff bases containing thiazole template were synthesized and developed as potent inhibitors of FabH. This inhibitor class demonstrates strong antibacterial activity. Escherichia coli FabH inhibitory assay and docking simulation indicated that the compounds 11 and 18 were potent inhibitors of E. coli FabH. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Twenty-four new 1,3-disubstituted urea derivatives (compounds 1–24) were synthesized and reported for the first time. The antiproliferative activities of these compounds were evaluated against a panel of one human liver cell line (L02) and two human tumor cell lines (KB and K562) by applying the MTT colorimetric assay. The series of 1,3-disubstituted urea derivatives show good antiproliferative activity against human cancer cell lines (KB and K562) and no antiproliferative activity against liver cell line (L02). The potent in vitro antiproliferative activity of these derivatives and their selectivity for L02 are quite important points for an anticancer drug candidate with fewer side effects. Structure–activity relationships were also discussed based on the obtained experimental data. The hydroxyl groups on the phenyl ring reduced the antiproliferative activities of 1,3-disubstituted urea derivatives. The OH groups could be responsible for a reduction in the permeability of the cell membrane. Generally, an aromatic ring on N-3 seems to be in favor of enhancing the inhibitory activity, compounds introduced a nitro group substituent at C-3 position on the aromatic ring approved to generally decrease activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A series of novel aminophosphonate derivatives containing pyrazole moiety were synthesized with their COX-2 inhibition and anti-cancer activity evaluated. In vitro assays showed that Z21 displayed excellent COX-2 inhibitory activity against COX-2 and anti-proliferative activity against MCF-7 cells. Z21 induced apoptosis of MCF-7 cells through a mitochondrion-dependent pathway and involved cell-cycle arrest in G2 phase. Overall, these results provided some new insights into the design of therapeutic drugs for COX-2 inhibitors and indicated the connection between selective COX-2 inhibition and the anti-tumor activity. • Providing a novel series of potential inhibitors for COX-2. • The series Z1-Z30 were all reported for the first time. • The top hit Z21 suggested potency and selectivity of inhibiting COX-2 and potency for human breast cancer cells. • Z21 induced apoptosis of MCF-7 cells through a mitochondrion-dependent pathway and involved cell-cycle arrest in G2 phase. Cyclooxygenase is critical for maintaining physiological functions, whereas overexpression of COX-2 was closely implicated in various cancers. In this study, a series of novel aminophosphonate derivatives containing pyrazole moiety were synthesized with their anti-cancer activity evaluated. In vitro assays of the target compounds showed that Z21 displayed excellent COX-2 inhibitory activity against COX-2 (IC 50 = 0.22 ± 0.04 µM) and anti-proliferative activity against MCF-7 cell (IC 50 = 4.37 ± 0.49 µM). The apoptosis induction of compound Z21 was confirmed by flow cytometry and polymerase chain reaction. Further investigation demonstrated that compound Z21 induced apoptosis of MCF-7 cells through a mitochondrion-dependent pathway and involved cell-cycle arrest in G2 phase. Overall, these results provided some new insights into the design of therapeutic drugs for COX-2 inhibitors and indicated the connection between selective COX-2 inhibition and the anti-tumor activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]