DIBENZYL POLYAMINE ANALOGS - A NEW CLASS OF RADIOPROTECTIVE AGENTS

A series of N-benzyl norspermidine analogues was prepared and evaluate d as radiation protective agents. We have previously reported the resu lts of an in vitro assay which showed this type of polyamine analogue was taken up by HeLa cells where it localized in the nucleus in high c oncentrations. The compounds were further modified to include radical scavenging functionality in an attempt to deliver the radical scavengi ng molecule to the nucleus and protect DNA from damage during irradiat ion. The best protective activity was observed with the parent dibenzy lpolyamine analogue, suggesting that the radiation protective acitivit y seen with the compound may not involve radical scavenging. (C) 1994 Academic Press, Inc.