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Lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), demethylase against mono- and di - methylated histone3 lysine 4, has emerged as a promising target in oncology. More specifically, it has been demonstrated as a key promoter in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and several LSD1 inhibitors have already entered into clinical trials for the treatment of AML. In this paper, a series of new indole derivatives were designed and synthesized based on a lead compound obtained by a high-throughput screening with our in-house compound library. Among the synthetic compounds, 9e was characterized as a potent LSD1 inhibitor with an IC 50 of 1.230 μM and can inhibit the proliferation of THP-1 cells effectively. And most importantly, this is the first irreversible LSD1 inhibitor that is not derived from monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Hence, the discovery of 9e may serve as a proof of concept work for AML treatment. Image 1 • Compound 9e was designed and synthesized based on a lead compound obtained from our in-house compound library. • Compound 9e inhibits LSD1 (IC50 = 1.230 μM) and shows good anti-proliferation activity in THP-1 cells. • Compound 9e can significantly increase the expression of CD86 and induce differentiation of THP-1 cells. • Compound 9e is the first irreversible LSD1 inhibitor that is not derived from monoamine oxidase inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ischemic stroke (IS) is harmful to human health and social development, and there is no medicine available at present. To find the hit compound for treating ischemic stroke, we screened 28 FDA approved nervous system drugs by using an in vitro OGD-induced stroke model. Notably, our in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that low-dose sertraline had good neuroprotective activities, while high-dose sertraline showed significant toxicity. Interestingly, the same high-dose sertraline in the control group did not exhibit any obvious toxic effect. Therefore, it is important to modify the structure of sertraline to improve the activity and reduce the toxicity. Stereoisomers of sertraline were first investigated to analyze the influence of stereochemistry on the neuroprotective activities, which showed no obvious difference. Then we evaluated the activity of our previously reported sertraline analogues and found that introducing amide or alkane groups to the amino moiety might be beneficial to enhance the activity and reduce the toxicity. Thus, 10 new analogues were designed, synthesized, and evaluated. Among them, compound OY-201 showed the best safety and neuroprotective activity in both in vitro and in vivo models. Moreover, it exhibited good blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, indicating its potential for the development of anti-ischemic stroke drugs. [Display omitted] • Sertraline shows neuroprotective activity at low dose and toxicity at high dose on IS model. • Neuroprotective effects and cytotoxicity of 40 sertraline analogues are evaluated. • OY-201 shows good safety and neuroprotective effect in in vitro and in vivo models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Thirty-five S- and O-substituted 7-mercaptocoumarin (9–23) and 7-hydroxy- or 7-mercapto-chromone (24–43) analogs were designed, synthesized and evaluated in vitro against four human tumor cell lines [KB (nasopharyngeal), KB-vin (vincristine-resistant subline), A549 (lung) and DU145 (prostate)] with paclitaxel as the positive control. Many of the synthesized compounds exhibited potent cytotoxic activity. Among them, compounds 10 and 18 showed broad spectrum activity with GI50 values ranging from 0.92 to 2.11 μM and 2.06–14.07 μM, respectively. However, 33, a 3-brominated compound, displayed significant and selective inhibition against MDR KB-vin with a GI50 of 5.84 μM. Regardless of the size of the 7-alkoxy group, 2-α-bromoethyl-8-bromomethyl compounds (40–43) exhibited increased cytotoxicity compared with 2-ethyl-8-bromomethyl compounds (36–39). Moreover, in a preliminary pharmacological study, 10 not only remarkably increased cellular apoptosis in a concentration-dependent manner, but also clearly induced A549 cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. Thus, these coumarin derivatives merit investigation as novel potential antitumor agents with further structural modification to produce an optimal lead compound and elucidate the detailed pharmacological mechanism(s). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Ubiquitin-specific-processing protease 7 (USP7) is one among the several deubiquitinating enzymes gaining central attention in the current cancer research. Most recent studies have focused on illustrating how USP7 is involved in the cancer process, while few articles reported the development of small molecule USP7 inhibitors. Although some review articles dealt with USP7, they mainly focused on its physiological role and not on the development of USP7 inhibitors. In this review, we systematically summarise the structures, activities and structure-activity relationship (SAR) of small molecule USP7 inhibitors, recently disclosed in scientific articles and patents from 2000 to 2019. The binding modes of typical compounds and their interactions with USP7 are also presented, while other deubiquitinase inhibitors are described in detail. Meanwhile, we briefly introduce the biochemical and physiological functions of USP7. Finally, challenges and potential strategies in developing small molecule USP7 inhibitors are also discussed. Image 1 • USP7 is a promising therapeutic target for cancer. • Development of recently disclosed USP7 inhibitors are systematically summarised. • Structures, activities,SAR and co-crystal structures are described in detail. • Moreover, other UBP inhibitors are described in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The search for novel anticancer agents with more selectivity and lower toxicity continues to be an area of intensive investigation. The unique structural features of spirooxindoles together with diverse biological activities have made them privileged structures in new drug discovery. Among them, spiro-pyrrolidinyl oxindoles have been extensively studied as potent inhibitors of p53–MDM2 interaction, finally leading to the identification of MI-888, which could achieve rapid, complete and durable tumor regression in xenograft models of human cancer with oral administration and is in advanced preclinical research for cancer therapy. This review highlights recent progress of biologically active spirooxindoles for their anticancer potentials, mainly focusing on the discussions of SARs and modes of action. This article also aims to discuss potential further directions on the development of more potent analogues for cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neddylation is a protein modification process similar to ubiquitination, carried out through a series of activating (E1), conjugating (E2), and ligating (E3) enzymes. This process has been found to be overactive in various cancers, leading to increased oncogenic activities. Ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme 2 M (UBE2M) is one of two neddylation enzymes that play a vital role in this pathway. Studies have shown that targeting UBE2M in cancer treatment is crucial, as it regulates many molecular mechanisms like DNA damage, apoptosis, and cell proliferation. However, developing small molecule inhibitors against UBE2M remains challenging due to the lack of suitable druggable pockets. We have discovered that Micafungin, an antifungal agent that inhibits the production of 1,3-β-D-glucan in fungal cell walls, acts as a neddylation inhibitor that targets UBE2M. Biochemical studies reveal that Micafungin obstructs neddylation and stabilizes UBE2M. In cellular experiments, the drug was found to interact with UBE2M, prevent neddylation, accumulate cullin ring ligases (CRLs) substrates, reduce cell survival and migration, and induce DNA damage in gastric cancer cells. This research uncovers a new anti-cancer mechanism for Micafungin, paving the way for the development of a novel class of neddylation inhibitors that target UBE2M. [Display omitted] • New classes of neddylation inhibitors are discovered by HTRF-based drug screening. • Micafungin inhibits the neddylation of UBE2M by interacting with it. • Cancer cell proliferation and migration are prevented by Micafungin. • Through the upregulation of the NOXA, Micafungin causes apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, histone lysine specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) has become an emerging and promising target for cancer immunotherapy. Herein, based on our previously reported LSD1 inhibitor DXJ-1 (also called 6x), a series of novel acridine-based LSD1 inhibitors were identified via structure optimizations. Among them, compound 5ac demonstrated significantly enhanced inhibitory activity against LSD1 with an IC 50 value of 13 nM, about 4.6-fold more potent than DXJ-1 (IC 50 = 73 nM). Molecular docking studies revealed that compound 5ac could dock well into the active site of LSD1. Further mechanism studies showed that compound 5ac inhibited the stemness and migration of gastric cancer cells, and reduced the expression of PD-L1 in BGC-823 and MFC cells. More importantly, BGC-823 cells were more sensitive to T cell killing when treated with compound 5ac. Besides, the tumor growth was also suppressed by compound 5ac in mice. Together, 5ac could serve as a promising candidate to enhance immune response in gastric cancer. [Display omitted] • SAR studies were explored for a new series of acridine-based LSD1 inhibitors. • The most effective compound 5ac showed an IC 50 value of 13 nM against LSD1. • 5ac suppressed stemness and migration of GC cells. • 5ac lowered the expression of PD-L1, and activated T cell immunity in GC cells. • 5ac inhibited the tumor growth of xenograft model in 615 mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, aiming at finding a novel, potent, and selective sodium-dependent glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor with good pharmacokinetic profiles for the treatment of diabetes, we focus on modifying the sugar moiety of SGLT2 inhibitors, which dominates the binding with glucose binding site of hSGLT, via removing the C-6 hydroxy group to adjust the physicochemical properties and target-recognition manners of SGLT2 inhibitors. In addition, tofogliflozin containing a special O -spiroketal C -arylglucoside scaffold, displayed good efficacy and bioavailability both in animals and in humans. Therefore, a series of 6-deoxy O -spiroketal C -arylglucosides as novel SGLT2 inhibitors were designed, synthesized, and evaluated in this work. The structure-activity relationship (SAR) research on this novel series and a comprehensive in vitro and in vivo biological evaluation afforded compound 39 with high in vitro hSGLT2 inhibitory activity (IC 50 = 4.5 nM), good pharmacokinetic profiles, and more remarkable efficacy in C57BL/6J mice and Sprague-Dawley rats than marketed drug tofogliflozin. Image 1 • Novel 6-deoxy O -spiroketal C -arylglucosides as SGLT2 inhibitors were designed, synthesized, and evaluated. • The structure-activity relationship (SAR) of this novel series of 31 compounds was demonstrated. • Compound 39 demonstrated higher potency of inhibiting hSGLT2 than dapagliflozin (IC 50 = 4.5 nM vs 8.3 nM). • Compound 39 displayed greater efficacy than tofogliflozin on urinary glucose excretion and oral glucose tolerance in mice. • The half-life of compound 39 in mice was longer than tofogliflozin after oral administration (5.95 h vs 2.57 h). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interleukin-1 receptor associated kinase 4 (IRAK-4) is a member of serine-threonine kinase family, which plays an important role in the regulation of interleukin-1 receptors (IL-1R) and Toll-like receptors (TLRs) related signaling pathways. At present, the IRAK-4 mediated inflammation and related signaling pathways contribute to inflammation, which are also responsible for other autoimmune diseases and drug resistance in cancers. Therefore, targeting IRAK-4 to develop single-target, multi-target inhibitors and proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) degraders is an important direction for the treatment of inflammation and related diseases. Moreover, insight into the mechanism of action and structural optimization of the reported IRAK-4 inhibitors will provide the new direction to enrich the clinical therapies for inflammation and related diseases. In this comprehensive review, we introduced the recent advance of IRAK-4 inhibitors and degraders with regards to structural optimization, mechanism of action and clinical application that would be helpful for the development of more potent chemical entities against IRAK-4. [Display omitted] • IRAK-4 is a key signal transduction node in the regulation of IL-1R and TLRs pathways. • Targeting IRAK-4 is a promising method for inflammation, auto-immune diseases and cancers. • This review focuses on the mechanism, clinical application and structural optimization of IRAK-4 inhibitors and degraders. • This review provides the modification suggestions for the development of IRAK-4 inhibitors and degraders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

48 new drugs including 38 chemical entities (33 new chemical entities, 3 new diagnostic agents, and 2 payloads of antibody drug conjugates) and 10 biologics were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) during 2019. These marketed new drugs represent privileged structures and novel action of mechanism, and thus can be served as leads to discover new drugs with the similar biological targets and improved therapeutic efficacy. This review aims to provide an overview regarding the synthetic approaches of 33 new chemical entities approved by the FDA in 2019 and their clinical applications. Image 1 • 48 new drugs were approved by the FDA during 2019. • These new drugs represent privileged structures and could also serve as leads to discover new drugs. • The synthetic approaches of 33 new chemical entities and their clinical applications are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play crucial roles in maintaining redox balance and regulating physiological processes, ROS levels in cancer cells are relatively higher than those in normal cells. Therefore, elevating cellular ROS levels may be a viable strategy for selective killing of cancer cells. In this work, we synthesized a series of new theobromine derivatives and evaluated their cytotoxicity against gastric cancer cells MGC-803, SGC-7901 and HGC-27. Particularly, MQS-14 potently inhibited cell growth of MGC-803, SGC-7901 and HGC-27 cells at low micromolar levels. Mechanistic studies showed that compound MQS-14 decreased cell viability of MGC-803 cells and inhibited cell division revealed by the CFDA and EdU staining assays. MQS-14 increased cellular ROS levels and activated the MAPK pathway accompanied by the decreased p-ERK and increased p-JNK expression. MQS-14 also induced DNA damage and apoptosis in MGC-803 cells. To conclude, MQS-14 induced cell death of MGC-803 cells partly through elevating cellular ROS levels. Image 1 • MQS-14 potently inhibited cell growth of MGC-803 cells at low micromolar levels. • MQS-14 decreased cell viability of MGC-803 cells and inhibited cell division. • MQS-14 increased cellular ROS levels and activated the MAPK pathway. • MQS-14 induced DNA damage and apoptosis in MGC-803 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A series of novel 2,4-disubstituted quinazolines were synthesized and evaluated for their anti-tumor activity against five human cancer cells (MDA-MB-231, MCF-7, PC-3, HGC-27 and MGC-803) using MTT assay. Among them, compound 9n showed the most potent cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells. Compound 9n also significantly inhibited the colony formation and migration of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. Meanwhile, compound 9n induced cell cycle arrest at G1 phase and cell apoptosis, as well as increased accumulation of intracellular ROS. Furthermore, compound 9n exerted anti-tumor effects in vitro via decreasing the expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 and increasing the pro-apoptotic protein Bax and p53. Mechanistically, compound 9n markedly decreased p -EGFR and p-PI3K expression, which revealed that compound 9n targeted breast cancer cells via interfering with EGFR-PI3K signaling pathway. Molecular docking suggested that compound 9n could indeed bind into the active pocket of EGFR. All the findings suggest that compound 9n might be a valuable lead compound for anti-tumor agents targeting breast cancer cells. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • The 2,4-disubstituted quinazolines showed moderate to good growth inhibition against the tested five human cancer cells. • Among them, compound 9n exerted the most excellent anti-proliferative activities against breast cancer cells. • Compound 9n inhibited the colony formation and migration of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. • Compound 9n caused cell cycle arrest at G1 phase and induced apoptosis of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells. • Compound 9n inhibited tumor growth through EGFR-PI3K signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The histone lysine specific demethylase 1 (LSD1/KDM1A) is implicated in the development of cancers, targeting LSD1 has been recognized as a promising strategy for cancer therapy. To date, some small-molecule inhibitors are currently being investigated in clinical trials. Herein we report the design, synthesis and biochemical characterization of [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5- a ]pyrimidine derivatives as new LSD1 inhibitors. Of these compounds, compound C26 inhibited LSD1 in a reversible manner (IC 50 = 1.72 μM) and showed selectivity to LSD1 over MAO-A/B. Besides, compound C26 displayed FAD-competitive binding to LSD1. Interestingly, C26 did not inhibit horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and quench H 2 O 2 , thus excluding the possibility that LSD1 inhibition by C26 was due to the HRP inhibition and consumption of H 2 O 2. In LSD1 overexpressed A549 cells, compound C26 concentration-dependently induced accumulation of H3K4me1/me2 and H3K9me2 and showed cellular target engagement to LSD1. Additionally, compound C26 significantly inhibited migration of A549 cells in a concentration-dependent manner, further western blot analysis showed that C26 increased expression levels of epithelial cell markers E-Cadherin and Claudin-1, down-regulated mesenchymal cell marker N-Cadherin and the upstream transcription factors Snail and Slug. Docking studies were also performed to rationalize the potency of C26 toward LSD1. To conclude, the [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5- a ]pyrimidine could serve as a promising scaffold for the development of new LSD1 inhibitors. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • A new series of [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5- a ]pyrimidine derivatives were designed as new LSD1 inhibitors. • C26 inhibited LSD1 reversibly and showed selectivity to LSD1 over MAO-A/B. • C26 concentration-dependently induced accumulation of H3K4/9 substrates and showed cellular target engagement to LSD1 in A549 cells. • C26 significantly inhibited migration of A549 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. • The [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5- a ]pyrimidine could serve as a promising scaffold for the development of new LSD1 inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Phenelzine was first employed to design new aryl hydrazine-based LSD1 inhibitors based on the experience-based discovery (EBD) strategy. Among these compounds, D8 potently inhibited LSD1 (IC 50 = 882.30 nM) in a reversible manner. Compound D8 was selective to LSD1 over MAO-A/B and showed H3K4me2 competitive binding to LSD1. The interaction between H3K4me2 and LSD1 was also confirmed by the Co-IP assay. In LSD1 overexpressed A549 cells, compound D8 dose-dependently induced accumulation of LSD1 substrates H3K4me1/2 and H3K9me1/2, showed cellular target engagement to LSD1 and significantly inhibited cell migration of A549 cells. Docking studies suggested that compound D8 occupied the peptide binding region and therefore blocked the access of the peptide substrate to the FAD, finally leading to the demethylase activity inhibition of LSD1. The findings indicate that aryl hydrazines are new scaffolds for the design of LSD1 inhibitors, the identification of D8 provides further evidence for our previously proposed general principle that fused heterocycles with an amine group are potentially active toward LSD1 by competitive binding to LSD1 with H3 peptide substrates. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Phenelzine was first employed to design new aryl hydrazine-based LSD1 inhibitors. • D8 reversibly inhibited LSD1 (IC 50 = 882.30 nM) and showed H3K4me2 competitive binding to LSD1. • In A549 cells, D8 induced accumulation of H3K4me1/2 and H3K9me1/2. • D8 was cellularly engaged to LSD1 and inhibited migration of A549 cells. • The aryl hydrazines are new scaffolds for the design of LSD1 inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Histone lysine specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) has been recognized as an important epigenetic target for disease treatment. To date, a large number of LSD1 inhibitors have been developed, some of which are currently being evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of cancers, virus infection, and neurodegenerative diseases. In this paper, we for the first time reported the ligand-based design of fragment-like xanthine derivatives as LSD1 inhibitors, of which compound 4 possessed acceptable pharmacological inhibition against LSD1 (IC 50 = 6.45 μM) and favorable fragment-like nature, and therefore could be used as a promising template to design new LSD1 inhibitors. Interestingly, compounds 6c and 6i strongly suppressed growth of MGC-803 cells partly dependent on their LSD1 inhibition, and were also found to be able to inhibit BRD4 and IDO1. The docking studies were performed to rationalize the biochemical potency against LSD1 and to explain the observed activity discrepancy. The proof-of-concept work may provide an example for other natural ligand-based drug design. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • The FAD-based design strategy was employed to generate xanthine-based LSD1 inhibitors. • Xanthine derivatives inactivated LSD1, but also inhibited MAO-A/B. • The SARs studies revealed the structural requirements for the anti-LSD1 activity. • Molecular docking studies were performed to rationalize the potency. • Compounds 6c and 6i exhibited LSD1-dependent growth inhibition toward MGC-803 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract To explore anti-gastric cancer agents with high efficacy and selectivity, we report the design, synthesis and optimization of a novel series of 3-(2,6,9-trisubstituted-9H-purine)-8-chalcone derivatives starting from the compound PCA-15 reported by us previously. Most of the target compounds demonstrated significant antiproliferative effects on MGC803 cancer cell line, and more potent than the positive control (PCA-15 and 5-Fu). Among them, compound 6o was identified to be the most active compound against MGC803 cell line with an IC 50 value of 0.84 μM. Additionally, high selectivity was also observed between cancer and normal cells (23.35 μM against GES-1). Further mechanism studies confirmed that compound 6o could inhibit colony formation and migration, induce the apoptosis of MGC803 cells through both the mitochondrial-mediated intrinsic pathway and death receptor-mediated extrinsic pathway, which were evidenced by the up-regulation of Bax, cleaved-caspase 9/3/8, cleaved PARP and down-regulation of Bcl-2. Our systematic studies implied a new scaffold targeting gastric cancer cells for further development of small-molecule compounds with improved potency and selectivity. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • A novel purine-chalcone scaffold was established by structural optimization, which led to a gradually improved activity. • Compound 6o exerted the potent anti-gastric cancer activity and good selectivity between cancer and normal cells. • Compound 6o could inhibit migration and induce the apoptosis of MGC803 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Lysine demethylase 5B (KDM5B) is a histone demethylase identified in 2007, which is responsible for erasing H3K4me2/3 activation marker. It participates in multiple repressive transcriptional complexes around target gene promoters and performs wide regulatory effects on chromatin structure. Until now, there is growing evidence for the oncogenic function of KDM5B. As the H3K4me2/3 residue represents the transcription initiation site of the active transcription gene, and demethylation of H3K4 is associated with transcriptional repression, making it a potential participant in inhibiting the expression of tumor suppressors. Therefore, KDM5B is considered as a promising drug target for cancer therapy, and many medicinal chemists are trying to design and synthesize potent and selective KDM5B inhibitors with the aid of high-throughput screening, structure based drug design, and structure activity relationship studies. This review focuses on the basic biochemical and physiological function of KDM5B and its involved mechanisms in cancers, a comprehensive overview of KDM5B inhibitors is also introduced. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • A systematic overview on KDM5B is presented. • KDM5B is a promising target for cancer therapy. • KDM5B inhibitor is needed for cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A novel series of 2-(phenoxyaryl)-3-urea derivatives were designed, synthesized, and biologically evaluated for their anti-thrombotic activity. Most of compounds exhibited good inhibition against P2Y 1 receptor. Among them, three compounds 11 , 12 , and 13 demonstrated good P2Y 1 receptor antagonistic potency in vitro (IC 50 = 0.62 μM, 0.82 μM, and 0.21 μM, respectively). In antiplatelet aggregation study, four compounds 2 , 3 , 9 , and 13 showed good antiplatelet activity. The possible binding modes of compounds with P2Y 1 receptor were also explored by molecular docking simulation. The docking studies demonstrated that compound 13 interacted well with Phe119 through hydrophobic interaction and modestly improved the P2Y 1 receptor antagonistic activity, making it justifiable for further investigation. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Novel 2-(phenoxyaryl)-3-urea derivatives were designed, synthesized, and biologically evaluated. • Three compounds 11 , 12 , and 13 demonstrated good P2Y 1 receptor antagonistic potency in vitro. • Four compounds 2 , 3 , 9 , and 13 showed good antiplatelet activity in antiplatelet aggregation study. • The docking studies showed compound 13 interacted well with Phe119. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract As a continuation of our research on developing potent and potentially safe anti-proliferative agents, two series of novel Jiyuan Oridonin A-1,2,3-triazole-azole hybrids were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their anti-proliferative activity against four selected cancer cell lines (MGC-803, MCF-7, PC-3, Eca-109). Some compounds with better growth inhibitory effects were chosen to carry out further studies in A549 and SMMC-7721. Most of the synthesized compounds exhibited moderate to good activity against all the cancer cell lines selected. Particularly, the most active agent 8b showed high potency against human cancer cells with IC 50 ranging from 0.2 ± 0.0 to 5.0 ± 0.9 μM. Cellular mechanism studies elucidated compound 8b arrests cell cycle at G1 phase and induce a strong apoptotic response in SMMC-7721 cells. Furthermore, 8b could inhibit the colony formation and migration via Wnt signaling pathway in SMMC-7721 cells. For all these reasons, compound 8b holds promising potential as anti-proliferative agent. Graphical abstract A focused library of Jiyuan Oridonin A-1,2,3-triazole-azole derivatives were designed and synthesis. Compound 8b displayed the most potent inhibition against SMMC-7721 cells, inhibited colony formation and migration of SMMC-7721, as well as induced apoptosis. Image 1 Highlights • Jiyuan Oridonin A-1,2,3-triazole-azole hybrids inhibited proliferation of cancer cells. • Compound 8b exerted the most potent and broad-spectrum antiproliferative activity. • Compound 8b inhibited growth and migration of SMMC-7721 cells and induced apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LSD1 is overexpressed in various cancers and promotes tumor cell proliferation, tumor expansion, and suppresses immune cells infiltration and is closely associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors therapy. Therefore, the inhibition of LSD1 has been recognized as a promising strategy for cancer therapy. In this study, we screened an in-house small-molecule library targeting LSD1, an FDA-approved drug amsacrine for acute leukemia and malignant lymphomas was found to exhibit moderate anti-LSD1 inhibitory activity (IC 50 = 0.88 μM). Through further medicinal chemistry efforts, the most active compound 6x increased anti-LSD1 activity significantly (IC 50 = 0.073 μM). Further mechanistic studies demonstrated that compound 6x inhibited the stemness and migration of gastric cancer cell, and decreased the expression of PD-L1 (programmed cell death-ligand 1) in BGC-823 and MFC cells. More importantly, BGC-823 cells are more susceptible to T-cell killing when treated with compound 6x. Moreover, tumor growth was also suppressed by compound 6x in mice. Altogether, our findings demonstrated that acridine-based novel LSD1 inhibitor 6x may be a lead compound for the development of activating T cell immune response in gastric cancer cells. [Display omitted] • As a promising anti-LSD1 lead compound, amsacrine showed an IC 50 of 0.88 μM. • SAR of a series of acridine-based LSD1 inhibitors was studied. • The most potent compound 6x showed an IC 50 value of 0.073 μM against LSD1. • Compound 6x suppressed stemness and migration of GC cells. • Compound 6x reduced PD-L1 expression, and activated T cell immunity in GC cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an important epigenetic regulator, histone lysine specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) has become an attractive target for the discovery of anticancer agents. In this work, a series of tranylcypromine-based derivatives were designed and synthesized. Among them, compound 12u exhibited the most potent inhibitory potency on LSD1 (IC 50 = 25.3 nM), and also displayed good antiproliferative effects on MGC-803, KYSE450 and HCT-116 cells with IC 50 values of 14.3, 22.8 and 16.3 μM, respectively. Further studies revealed that compound 12u could directly act on LSD1 and inhibit LSD1 in MGC-803 cells, thereby significantly increasing the expression levels of mono-/bi-methylation of H3K4 and H3K9. In addition, compound 12u could induce apoptosis and differentiation, inhibit migration and cell stemness in MGC-803 cells. All these findings suggested that compound 12u was an active tranylcypromine-based derivative as a LSD1 inhibitor that inhibited gastric cancer. [Display omitted] • Novel tranylcypromine-based derivatives were designed and synthesized. • Compound 12u showed low nanomolar IC 50 value against LSD1 and high selectivity for MAO-A and MAO-B. • Compound 12u suppressed LSD1 and induced the accumulation of H3K4 Me1/2 and H3K9 Me2/3. • Compound 12u induced apoptosis and differentiation, and inhibited migration and cell stemness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new series of 6-chloro-2-(propylthio)-8,9-dihydro-7H-purine-8-caboxamide derivatives were designed, synthesized, and further evaluated for their antiproliferative activities on four human cancer cell lines (A549, MGC803, PC-3 and TE-1). The structure-activity relationships (SARs) studies were conducted through the variation in the two regions, which including position 8 and 9, of purine core. One of the compounds, 8 , containing a terminal piperazine appendage with a carboxamide moiety at position 8 and phenyl group at position 9 of 6-chloro-8,9-dihydro-7H-purine core, showed the most potent antiproliferative activity and good selectivity between cancer and normal cells (IC 50 values of 2.80 μM against A549 and 303.03 μM against GES-1, respectively). In addition, compound 8 could inhibit the colony formation and migration of A549 cells in a concentration-dependent manner, as well as induce the apoptosis possibly through the intrinsic pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrazone and their derivatives are a series of highly active molecules, which are widely used as lead compounds for the research and development of new anti-cancer drugs. In this study, 20 compounds were synthesized, based on this scaffold and their in vitro cytotoxicity against 6 cancer cell lines, including EC9706, SMMC-7721, MCF7, PC3, MGC-803 and EC109 was tested. Among them, compound 6p , showed strong anti-proliferative activities on esophageal carcinoma cells: EC9706 and EC109 with IC 50 values of 1.09 ± 0.03 and 2.79 ± 0.45 μM, respectively. 6p also significantly induces both EC9706 and EC109 cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase and cell apoptosis, as well as intracellular ROS accumulation, which could be markedly reversed caspase or ROS inhibitor: NAC. Meanwhile, treatment of compound 6p results in significant declined mitochondria membrane potential, increases in the expression of P53 and bax, as well as decrease in Bcl-2. 6p also activates caspase-8/9/3, PARP and Bid, indicating that 6p induces cancer cell apoptosis via the death receptor-mediated extrinsic pathway and the mitochondria-mediated intrinsic pathway. Further studies also proved that 6p does not show obvious side effects at cellular and in vivo levels. Our findings suggested that hydrazone derivative: compound 6p may serve as a lead compound for further optimization against esophageal cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of hybrid molecules containing [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidine and thiosemicarbazide moieties were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their antiproliferative activities against MGC-803, NCI-H1650 and PC-3 human cancer cells. Some of the synthesized compounds showed moderate to good activity against three selected cancer cell lines. Among these compounds, compound 29 displayed the most potent antiproliferative activity as well as good selectivity between cancer cells and normal cells. Further mechanism studies revealed that compound 29 could obviously inhibit the colony formation and migration of MGC-803 as well as induced apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of new steroidal pyridines have been synthesized through the based-promoted three-component reaction and preliminarily evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against different types of cancer cell lines. SARs studies showed that the heterocyclic rings attached to the 4-position of the pyridine ring were preferred over the phenyl rings for the activity. Among these compounds, the most potent compound exhibited good growth inhibition against all the tested cancer cells, especially for PC-3 cells with an IC 50 value of 1.55 μM. Further mechanistic studies revealed that the most potent compound inhibited colony formation, migration and evasion of PC-3 cells in a concentration-dependent manner as well as induced apoptosis of PC-3 cells possibly through the mitochondria-related apoptotic pathways. Caspase-3/-9 and PARP were activated, finally leading to the apoptosis of PC-3 cells. For the androgen-sensitive (AR + ) prostate cancer cell line LNCaP, the most potent compound was less potent than abiraterone with the IC 50 value of 8.48 and 3.29 μM, respectively. The most potent compound could be used as a starting point for the development of new steroidal heterocycles with improved anticancer potency and selectivity. The synthesized steroidal pyridines contain the functional -OEt and CN groups, which could be used for further modifications for the construction of the steroid library. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pteridines are an important class of heterocyclic compounds with diverse biological activities. Here, we report a series of pteridin-7(8 H )-one derivatives and their antiproliferative activities toward MKN-45, MGC-803, EC-109, and H1650. Structure-activity relationship studies showed that compound 12 exerted the most potent antiproliferative activity against MKN-45 and MGC-803 with the IC 50 values of 4.32 and 7.01 μM, respectively. Besides, compound 12 induced morphological changes and apoptosis of MKN-45 cells, increased expression of Bax, down-regulated expression of Bcl-2 and caused cleavage of caspase-3/9. Additionally, we first reported the construction of the novel bicyclic 8,9-dihydro-7 H -purine-8-carboxylate scaffold through the competitive 5-endo cyclization reaction with two C-N bonds and a chiral carbon center established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of infectious diseases caused by pathogenic bacteria is widespread. Therefore, it is urgently required to enhance the development of novel antimicrobial agents with high antibacterial activity and low cytotoxicity. A series of novel dialkyl cationic amphiphiles bearing two identical length lipophilic alkyl chains and one non-peptidic amide bond were synthesized and tested for antimicrobial activities against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Particular compounds synthesized showed excellent antibacterial activity toward drug-sensitive bacteria such as S. aureus , E. faecalis , E. coli and S. enterica , and clinical isolates of drug-resistant species such as methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), KPC-producing and NDM-1-producing carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE). For example, the MIC values of the best compound 4g ranged from 0.5 to 2 μg/mL against all these strains. Moreover, these small molecules acted rapidly as bactericidal agents, and functioned primarily by permeabilization and depolarization of bacterial membranes. Importantly, these compounds were difficult to induce bacterial resistance and can potentially combat drug-resistant bacteria. Thus, these compounds can be developed into a new class of antibacterial peptide mimics against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including drug-resistant bacterial strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pteridines are an important class of fused heterocycles found in natural products and drug molecules, and have shown diverse biological activities. A focused library of 5,8-dihydropteridine-6,7-dione derivatives were designed and evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against MGC-803, SGC-7901, A549 and PC-3 cancer cell lines. The SARs studies highlighted the importance of the piperazine substituted 5,8-dihydropteridine-6,7-dione frameworks for the activity and revealed essential structural elements. Among these compounds, compound 5n displayed the most potent and broad-spectrum antiproliferative inhibition against the tested cell lines and was sensitive to MGC-803 cell line, slightly more potent than 5-FU. Preliminary mechanistic studies showed that compound 5n could inhibit the colony formation and migration of MGC-803 cells. Besides, flow cytometry analysis showed that compound 5n concentration-dependently induced apoptosis of MGC-803 cells. Our studies suggest that the piperazine substituted 5,8-dihydropteridine-6,7-dione frameworks may be regarded as new chemotypes for designing effective antitumor agents targeting gastric cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABCB1-mediated multidrug resistance (MDR) is a principal obstacle for successful cancer chemotherapy. A series of pyrimidine-based hybrid molecules containing 1,2,3-triazole moiety were evaluated for their reversal activities against MDR. The majority of target compounds displayed moderate to great reversal potency. Among these compounds, compound 25 displayed the most potent reversal activity, about 7-fold more potent than Verapamil (VRP). Further mechanism studies revealed that compound 25 could obviously reverse paclitaxel (PTX) resistance in SW620/AD300 cells by increasing accumulation and extending maintenance of PTX. Our findings indicate that the 1,2,3-triazole-pyrimidine-based derivatives may serve as an interesting lead for the development of new potent and efficacious ABCB1-dependent MDR modulators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel berberine derivatives, 4,7,12,12a-tetrahydro-5 H -thieno[3′,2’:3,4]pyrido[1,2- b ]isoquinolines was designed, synthesized, and biologically evaluated for their anti-diabetic activity. Following the evaluation in two types of cells, compounds 4aa , 4bq , and 4bv stimulated glucose consumption (1.8- to 2.3-fold), reduced gluconeogenesis (60–85%), inhibited mitochondria respiratory chain complex I and activated AMPK indirectly. In a db / db mice model, compounds 4bq and 4bv lowered fasting blood glucose at a dose of 120 mg/kg/day. In addition, compounds 4bq and 4bv were found to possess improved pharmacokinetic profiles (bioavailability 45 and 106%, respectively) compared to berberine. Compounds 4bq and 4bv exhibited no obvious hERG inhibition (IC 50 > 10 μM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of new [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5- d ]pyrimidine/thiourea hybrids were designed and synthesized through the scaffold replacement/ring cleavage strategy. SARs studies revealed that the N -heteroarene moiety attached to the thiourea is preferred over the phenyl ring for the R 2 substituents, while the hydrophobic aromatic group is beneficial for improving the activity. Among these compounds, compound 5r significantly inhibited cell growth of lung cancer cell lines H1650 and A549 (IC 50 = 1.91, 3.28 μM, respectively), but was less toxic against the normal cell line GES-1 (IC 50 = 27.43 μM). Mechanistic studies showed that compound 5r could remarkably inhibit the colony formation of H1650 cells, induced apoptosis possibly through the intrinsic apoptotic pathways, and arrested the cell cycle at G2/M phase. Our studies suggest that the [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5- d ]pyrimidine/thiourea hybrids are a new class of chemotypes possessing interesting antiproliferative activity against lung cancer cells and could be potentially utilized for designing new antitumor agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of thiazolo[5,4- d ]pyrimidine derivatives were designed through the atom replacement strategy based on biologically validated scaffolds and then evaluated for their antiproliferative activities on cancer cell lines. The structure-activity relationship studies were conducted, leading to the identification of compound 22 , which exhibited good antiproliferative activity against HGC-27 with an IC 50 value of 1.22 μM and low toxicity against GES-1 cells. Mechanistic studies showed that compound 22 inhibited the colony formation and migration of HGC-27 as well as induced apoptosis. The western blot experiments proved that compound 22 up-regulated expression of Bax, down-regulated expression levels of Bcl-2 and cleaved caspased-3/9. These findings indicate that compound 22 may serve as a template for designing new agents for the treatment of human gastric cancers. The atom replacement strategy could be viable strategy for designing new anticancer drugs and may find its applications in drug design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of 5,6-diaryl-1,2,4-triazines hybrids bearing a 1,2,3-triazole linker were synthesized by molecular hybridization strategy and evaluated for antiproliferative activity against three selected cancer cell lines (MGC-803, EC-109 and PC-3). The first structure-activity relationship (SAR) for these 5,6-diaryl-1,2,4-triazines is explored in this report with evaluation of 15 variants of the structural class. Among these chemical derivatives, 3-(((1-(4-fluorobenzyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methyl)thio)-5,6-diphenyl-1,2,4-triazine ( 11E ) showed the more potent inhibitory effect against three cell lines than 5-Fu. Cellular mechanism studies in MGC-803 cells elucidated 11E inhibited colony formation and arrested cell cycle at G2/M phase. Furthermore, compound 11E caused morphological changes, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, and induced apoptosis through the apoptosis-related proteins in MGC-803 cells. It was the first time, to our knowledge, that 5,6-diaryl-1,2,4-triazines bearing a 1,2,3-triazole linker were used as potential apoptosis inducers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the long-term and widespread use of antibiotics in clinic, the problem of bacterial resistance is increasingly serious, and the development of new drugs to treat drug-resistant bacteria has gradually become the mainstream direction of antibiotic research. The oxazolidinone-containing drugs linezolid, tedizolid phosphate and contezolid have been approved to the market, which are effective against a variety of Gram-positive bacterium infections. Moreover, there are also many antibiotics containing oxazolidinone fragment under clinical investigation that show good pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties with unique mechanism of action against resistant bacteria. In this review, we summarized the oxazolidinone-based antibiotics already on the market or in clinical trials and the representative bioactive molecules, and mainly focused on their structural optimizations, development strategies and structure-activity relationships in hope of insight into the reasonable design for medical chemists to develop new oxazolidinone antibiotics with highly potency and fewer side effects. [Display omitted] • Oxazolidinone is a promising scaffold for the development of antibacterial drugs. • Three marketed drugs and ten in clinical candidates that containing oxazolidinone scaffold have been reviewed. • Other bioactive oxazolidinone-based molecules with the elegant modifications have been reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of heterocyclic derivatives has progressed considerably over the past few decades, and many new agents of synthetic and natural origin have been produced. Among heterocyclic compounds, thiazole is a unique five-membered heterocyclic motif characterized by nitrogen and sulfur atoms, which is widely used as an important core skeleton in a variety of pharmaceutically important compounds due to their diverse biological activities, such as antibacterial, antivirus, and antifungal. To the best of our knowledge, more than 90 thiazole-containing derivatives have been currently under clinical investigation, and some thiazole analogs have been approved to treat various diseases. As the potentially privileged scaffolds, thiazole derivatives can be further extensively explored to search for new drugs characterized by improved therapeutic efficacy and similar biological targets. This review aims to outline the applications and synthetic routes of some representative thiazole-containing drugs approved in the clinic, which may guide medicinal researchers to rationally design more effective thiazole-containing drug candidates. [Display omitted] • Thiazole ring is widely used in many drugs to treat various diseases. • Recent advances in thiazole-containing drugs have been summarized. • The clinical applications and synthetic routes of 33 thiazole-containing drugs are highlighted. • Summary and prospect are briefly discussed to guide future design of thiazole-containing drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 3C-like protease (3CLpro) is essential for the replication and transcription of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), making it a promising target for the treatment of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this study, a series of 2,3,5-substituted [1,2,4]-thiadiazole analogs were discovered to be able to inhibit 3CLpro as non-peptidomimetic covalent binders at submicromolar levels, with IC 50 values ranging from 0.118 to 0.582 μM. Interestingly, these compounds were also shown to inhibit PLpro with the same level of IC 50 values, but had negligible effect on proteases such as chymotrypsin, cathepsin B, and cathepsin L. Subsequently, the antiviral abilities of these compounds were evaluated in cell-based assays, and compound 6g showed potent antiviral activity with an EC 50 value of 7.249 μM. It was proposed that these compounds covalently bind to the catalytic cysteine 145 via a ring-opening metathesis reaction mechanism. To understand this covalent-binding reaction, we chose compound 6a , one of the identified hit compounds, as a representative to investigate the reaction mechanism in detail by combing several computational predictions and experimental validation. The process of ring-opening metathesis was theoretically studied using quantum chemistry calculations according to the transition state theory. Our study revealed that the 2,3,5-substituted [1,2,4]-thiadiazole group could covalently modify the catalytic cysteine in the binding pocket of 3CLpro as a potential warhead. Moreover, 6a was a known GPCR modulator, and our study is also a successful computational method-based drug-repurposing study. 2,3,5-substituted [1,2,4]-thiadiazoles as potent inhibitors targeting 3C-Like protease were proposed to covalently bind with the catalytic cysteine via a ring-opening metathesis reaction mechanism. [Display omitted] • Discovery of a new type of non-peptidomimetic covalent inhibitor against 3CLpro of SARS-CoV-2 with inhibition as strong as sub-micromolar level. • A molecular mechanism of the ring-opening metathesis was explored by combining types of computational and experimental technologies. • A multi-technologies integrated research paradigm for lead identification, validation and molecular mechanism study was explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, the development of targeted drugs has featured prominently in the treatment of cancer, which is among the major causes of mortality globally. Triazole-fused pyrimidines, a widely-used class of heterocycles in medicinal chemistry, have attracted considerable interest as potential anticancer agents that target various cancer-associated targets in recent years, demonstrating them as valuable templates for discovering novel anticancer candidates. The current review concentrates on the latest advancements of triazole-pyrimidines as target-based anticancer agents, including works published between 2007 and the present (2007–2022). The structure-activity relationships (SARs) and multiple pathways are also reviewed to shed light on the development of more effective and biotargeted anticancer candidates. [Display omitted] • The application of triazole-fused pyrimidines in target-based anticancer agents from 2007 to 2022 has been summarized. • The structure-activity relationship and mechanism of action of triazole-fused pyrimidines have been summarized. • Oncotargets have been divided into seven categories according to their pharmacological response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of thiazolo[5,4-d]pyrimidine derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their antiproliferative activities on three cancer cell lines. The structure-activity relationship studies were conducted through the variation in the three regions of the thiazolo-pyrimidine core. Substitution with morpholine led to compound 24 , which exerted the most potent antiproliferative activity as well as good selectivity between cancer and normal cells (IC 50 values of 1.03 μM against MGC803 and 38.95 μM against GES-1). In addition, compound 24 inhibited the colony formation and migration of MGC803 as well as induced apoptosis. Western blot experiments indicated the expression changes of apoptosis-related proteins, including up-regulation of Bax and caspase-3/9, as well as down-regulation of Bcl-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New thienopyrimidine hydroxamic acid derivatives as HDACs inhibitors were designed, synthesized and evaluated. All compounds were evaluated for their ability to inhibit recombinant human HDAC1, HDAC3, and HDAC6 isoforms and in vitro anti-proliferative activity on tumor cell lines RMPI 8226 and HCT 116. Most of these compounds displayed good to excellent inhibitory activities against HDACs. The IC 50 values of compound 9m against HDAC1, HDAC3, and HDAC6 was 29.81 ± 0.52 nM, 24.71 ± 1.16 nM, and 21.29 ± 0.32 nM. Most of these compounds showed strong anti-proliferative activity against human cancer cell lines including RMPI 8226 and HCT 116. The IC 50 values of compound 9m against RPMI 8226 and HCT 116 proliferation were 0.97 ± 0.072 μ M and 1.01 ± 0.033 μ M, respectively. In addition, compound 9m noticeably up-regulated the level of histone H3 acetylation at the low concentration of 0.3 μ M. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel formononetin-dithiocarbamate derivatives were designed, synthesized and evaluated for antiproliferative activity against three selected cancer cell line (MGC-803, EC-109, PC-3). The first structure-activity relationship (SAR) for this formononetin-dithiocarbamate scaffold is explored in this report with evaluation of 14 variants of the structural class. Among these analogues, tert -butyl 4-(((3-((3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4-oxo-4 H -chromen-7-yl)oxy)propyl)thio)carbonothioyl)piperazine-1-carboxylate ( 8i ) showed the best inhibitory activity against PC-3 cells (IC 50 = 1.97 μM). Cellular mechanism studies elucidated 8i arrests cell cycle at G1 phase and regulates the expression of G1 checkpoint-related proteins in concentration-dependent manners. Furthermore, 8i could inhibit cell growth via MAPK signaling pathway and inhibit migration via Wnt pathway in PC-3 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inhibition of lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) has recently emerged as an attractive therapeutic target for treating cancer and other diseases. As a continuity of our ongoing effort to identify novel small-molecule LSD1-inhibitors, we designed and synthesized a series of resveratrol derivatives, which were shown to be potent inhibitors of LSD1. Among them, compounds 4e and 4m displayed the most potent LSD1-inhibitory activities in enzyme assays, with IC 50 values of 121 nM and 123 nM, respectively. Biochemistry study and docking analysis indicated that compounds 4e and 4m were reversible LSD1 inhibitors. High content analysis showed that 4e and 4m induced a dose-dependent increase of dimethylated Lys4 of histone H3 and had no impact on the expression of LSD1 in MGC-803 cells. Furthermore, 4e or 4m could remarkably increase the mRNA level of CD86, a surrogate cellular biomarker for LSD1 activity, in MGC-803 cells, suggesting that they are likely to exhibit LSD1-inhibitory activities intracellularly. These findings should encourage further modification of these compounds to produce more potent LSD1 inhibitors with potential anticancer activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel substituted uracil-1′( N )-acetic acid esters ( 6 – 20 ) of camptothecins (CPTs) were synthesized by the acylation method. These new compounds were evaluated for in vitro antitumor activity against tumor cell lines, A549, Bel7402, BGC-823, HCT-8 and A2780. In vitro results showed that most of the derivatives exhibited comparable or superior cytotoxicity compare to CPT ( 1 ) and topotecan (TPT, 2 ), with 12 and 13 possessing the best efficacy. Four compounds, 9 , 12 , 13 and 16 , were selected to be evaluated for in vivo antitumor activity against H 22 , BGC-823 and Bel-7402 in mice. In vivo testing results indicated that 12 and 13 had antitumor activity against mouse liver carcinoma H 22 close to Paclitaxel and cyclophosphamide. 12 had similar antitumor activity against human gastric carcinoma BGC-823 in nude mice compared to irinotecan ( 3 ) and possessed better antitumor activity against human hepatocarcinoma Bel-7402 in nude mice than 2 . It is also discovered that 12 showed a similar mechanism but better inhibitory activity on topoisomerase I (Topo I) compared to 2 . These findings indicate that 20(S)- O -fluorouracil-1′( N )-acetic acid ester derivative of CPTs, 12 , could be developed as an antitumor drug candidate for clinical trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new series of [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-based LSD1 inhibitors were designed, synthesized, and further evaluated for their cytotoxicity against MGC-803, EC109, A549 and PC-9 cells as well as the ability of inhibiting LSD1. Some of these compounds showed potent inhibition toward LSD1 and selectively inhibited growth of A549 and PC-9 cells. Compound 6l potently inhibited growth of PC-9 cells (IC 50 = 0.59 μM), about 4-fold more potent than 5-FU. Further SARs studies led to the identification of compounds 6l-m , which had good growth inhibition against all the tested cancer cell lines and were much more potent than 5-FU and GSK2879552 . Besides, compounds 5p , 5q and 6i inhibited LSD1 potently (IC 50 = 0.154, 1.19 and 0.557 μM, respectively). Docking studies revealed that compound 5p formed arene-H interactions with Val333 and hydrogen bonds with surrounding Ala331, Met332, and Ala539 residues. Compound 5p significantly inhibited migration of A549 and PC-9 cells in a concentration-dependent manner, but had different effect on the expression of E-cadherin and N-cadherin. The [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine scaffold may serve as a starting point for developing potent LSD1 inhibitors for cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activity-based drug screens have successfully led to the development of various inhibitors of the catalytic activity of aurora kinases (AURKs), major regulatory kinases of cell division. Disrupting the localization of AURKB, rather than its catalytic activity, represents a largely unexplored alternative approach to disabling AURKB-dependent processes. Localization disruptors could be just as specific as direct inhibitors of AURKB activity, may bypass their off-target and select on-target toxicities, and are likely less susceptible to drug resistance resulting from mutations of the AURKB catalytic site. In this study, we demonstrate that the pan-AURK inhibitor AMG900 works at a low concentration not by inhibiting the phosphorylation of H3 at Ser10, an AURKB substrate, but by disrupting the mitotic localization of AURKB. Structural deletion studies pinpoint this undescribed activity to the 2-phenoxy-3,4′-bipyridine moiety of AMG900. Guided by a mechanism-informed phenotypic screening (MIPS) assay, the drug fragment is optimized into a novel class of inhibitors that, at low nanomolar concentrations, can disable AURKB through disruption of its mitotic localization and have desirable oral PK properties. Hierarchical clustering of cell fitness profiles reveals that these compounds cluster with each other, rather than with known AURK inhibitors such as AMG900 and VX-680. Validation studies in mice demonstrate that compound 15a elicits mitotic arrest and apoptosis in NCI–H23 human lung adenocarcinoma xenografts, resulting in a pronounced suppression of tumor growth. The discovery and optimization of compounds that disrupt AURKB localization are successfully facilitated by MIPS. Our findings suggest that 2-phenoxy-3, 4′-bipyridine derivatives have the potential to be further developed as effective therapeutics for the treatment of malignancy by delocalizing AURKB. [Display omitted] • Mechanism-informed phenotype approach to guide lead optimization. • Structural simplification to identify 2-phenoxy-3,4′-bipyridine moiety of AMG900. • Lead compound 15a disables AURKB by disrupting its mitotic localization. • 15a elicits broad spectrum cytotoxicity at low nM concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

50 New drugs including 36 chemical entities and 14 biologics were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration during 2021. Among the marketed drugs, 31 new small molecule agents (29 small molecule drugs and 2 diagnostic agents) with privileged structures and novel clinical applications represent as promising leads for the development of new drugs with the similar indications and improved therapeutic efficacy. This review is mainly focused on the clinical applications and synthetic methods of 29 small molecule drugs newly approved by the FDA in 2021. We believed that insight into the synthetic approaches of drug molecules would provide creative and practical inspirations for the development of more efficient and practical synthetic technologies to meet with new drug discovery. [Display omitted] • 50 New drugs including 36 chemical entities and 14 biologics were approved by the FDA during 2021. • Clinical applications and synthetic methods of 29 small-molecule drugs are summarized. • These new drugs provide privileged structures for the development of new drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a serious, highly contagious disease. HFMD caused by Enterovirus 71 (EV71), results in severe complications and even death. The pivotal role of EV71 3C pro in the viral life cycle makes it an attractive target for drug discovery and development to treat HFMD. In this study, we identified novel EV71 3C pro inhibitors by docking-based virtual screening. Totally 50 compounds were selected to test their inhibitory activity against EV71 3C pro . The best inhibitor DC07090 exhibited the inhibition potency with an IC 50 value of 21.72 ± 0.95 μM without apparent toxicity (CC 50 > 200 μM). To explore structure-activity relationship of DC07090, 15 new derivatives were designed, synthesized and evaluated in vitro enzyme assay accordingly. Interestingly, four compounds showed inhibitory activities against EV71 3C pro and only DC07090 inhibited EV71 replication with an EC 50 value of 22.09 ± 1.07 μM. Enzyme inhibition kinetic experiments showed that the compound was a reversible and competitive inhibitor. The Ki value was determined to be 23.29 ± 12.08 μM. Further molecular docking, MD simulation and mutagenesis studies confirmed the binding mode of DC07090 and EV71 3C pro . Besides, DC07090 could also inhibit coxsackievirus A16 (CVA16) replication with an EC 50 value of 27.76 ± 0.88 μM. Therefore, DC07090 represents a new non-peptidyl small molecule inhibitor for further development of antiviral therapy against EV71 or other picornaviruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of new isatin/triazole conjugates were designed based on the hypothesis that the ester-linked compounds could be enzymatically hydrolyzed by cellular esterases inside the cells. These compounds showed moderate to good growth inhibition toward the tested cancer cells, exerted selective inhibition toward MGC-803 cells and were less toxic to normal cells HL-7702 and GES-1. Of these compounds, compound 5a showed the best inhibitory activity against MGC-803 cells (IC 50 = 9.78 μM), induced apoptosis through multiple mechanisms, as well as inhibited migration of MGC-803 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5- d ]pyrimidine derivatives bearing a hydrazone moiety were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against several cancer cell lines of different origins by MTT assay. Most of the synthesized compounds demonstrated moderate to good activity against the cancer cell lines selected. Especially, compound 43 showed the most potent antiproliferative activity as well as good selectivity between cancer and normal cells (IC 50 values of 0.85 μM against MGC-803 and 56.17 μM against GES-1). In addition, compound 43 evidently inhibited the colony formation of MGC-803 cells at 0.8 μM. Further mechanism studies revealed that compound 43 could induce apoptosis of MGC-803 cells probably through the mitochondrial pathway accompanied with decrease of the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), activations of caspase-9/3, up-regulation of the expression of Bax, Bak and PUMA, as well as down-regulation of that of Bcl-2 and Mcl-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of steroidal hybrids with different terminal bioactive scaffolds were synthesized using the molecular hybridization approach and further evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against several cancer cell lines of different origins using the MTT assay. The preliminary results indicated that compounds 12a–h with the terminal isatin motif were remarkably sensitive to SH-SY5Y cells, thereby exerting potent growth inhibition in vitro. This selectivity is possibly attributed to LSD1 inactivation (IC 50 = 3.18 μM). Besides, we also found that the chloro atom at the 7-position on the isatin core was beneficial for the activity through the SARs studies. Among this series, compound 12g showed the best inhibitory activity (IC 50 = 4.06 μM) against SH-SY5Y cells, which was comparable to that of 5-FU. Compound 12g arrested cell cycle at G2/M phase, induced apoptosis accompanied with decrease of mitochondrial membrane potential, and inhibited LSD1 potently (IC 50 = 3.18 μM). Docking studies showed that compound 12g formed interactions with surrounding amino acid residues and the steroid nucleus occupied the tubular hydrophobic cavity of the active site. Compounds 13–18 represented weak to moderate activity against the tested cancer cell lines. The steroidal dimer 20 and the structurally simplified non-steroidal dimer 21 were found to be devoid of the inhibitory activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of novel anticancer agents with high efficacy and low toxicity has always been an intriguing topic in medicinal chemistry. The unique structural features of spirooxindoles together with diverse biological activities have made them promising structures in new drug discovery. Among spirooxindoles, CFI-400945 holds its promise as the first potent PLK4 inhibitor, the fumarate of CFI-400945 has entered phase I clinical trials for the treatment of solid tumors. However, questions remain as to whether PLK4 is the only relevant therapeutic target for CFI-400945. To highlight this significant progress of CFI-400945 in last two years, this review centers on the identification from a focused kinase library, structural optimizations and strategies involved, structure-activity relationships, modes of action, target validation, chemical synthesis and, more importantly, the kinase selectivity between PLK4 and other targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]