Synthesis of vinca alkaloids and related compounds, Part XCVI[1] Nitration study of vinblastine-type bisindole alkaloids

The bisindole alkaloids vinblastine, vincristine, and N-formyl-leurosine were nitrated and subsequently converted to amino derivatives. In the case of compounds 5e and 5b cytotoxic activity has been found for non-small cell lung cancer and breast cancer in the concentration range tested (10(-5)-10(-9) M). 5b also showed potency in the screen for colon cancer and leukemia.