Synthesis of novel SRPK1-targeting hybrid compounds incorporating antimetabolites for cancer therapy

Abstract

Serine/arginine protein kinase 1 (SRPK1) plays a pivotal role in the phosphorylation of SR/RS domain-containing proteins, which are involved in various cellular processes. Its overexpression has been associated with the progression of various malignancies, positioning SRPK1 as a promising target for cancer treatment. In this study, we report the design, synthesis, and preliminary biological evaluation of two hybrid molecules, geo15 and geo140, which combine known SRPK1 inhibitors with the antimetabolites gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), respectively. These conjugates were synthesized to assess whether hybridization enhances potency compared to the parent compounds, and to investigate potential novel mechanisms of action. In vitro assays were performed to evaluate SRPK1 inhibition and antiproliferative activity in selected cancer cell lines. Among the tested compounds, the JH-VII-139-1-based hybrid geo140 exhibited notable SRPK1 inhibitory potency and cytotoxic effects, demonstrating a favorable profile for further optimization. Interestingly, treatment with geo140 did not appear to alter the overall SRPK1 distribution in interphase cells but resulted in a notable increase of mitotic cells that displayed a substantial accumulation of SRPK1, thus suggesting that the hybrid compound may have an impact on cell cycle progression. This work supports the potential of molecular hybridization as a strategy for the development of novel SRPK1-targeting anticancer agents.