Synthesis, biological evaluation and DNA binding properties of novel mono and bisnaphthalimides

Abstract

A novel series of mono and bisnaphthalimides was synthesized and their antiproliferative activities were evaluated against three tumor cell lines. Bisnaphthalimides 3 and 4, bearing a pyrazine ring fused to the naphthalimide system, showed activities in the order of 10⁻⁸ µM, similar to elinafide. DNA binding properties and the ability to induce DNA damage were studied for some of the most active compounds.