2-(1-Hydroxyiminoalkyl)-1,4-dimethoxy-9,10-anthraquinones: Synthesis and evaluation of cytotoxicity

A series of 2-(1-hydroxyiminoalkyl)-1,4-dimethoxy-9,10-anthraquinones (oxim es) was synthesized and evaluated for cytotoxicity against L1210 cells and A549 cells. These oximes showed a greater cytotoxic activity compared to th ose of 2-(1-hydroxyalkyl)-1,4-dimethoxy-9,10-anthraquinones as the hydroxya lkyl bioisosteres. The enhanced cytotoxicity assumed to be due to the impro ved water solubility of the hydroxyimino group. Moreover, it was Found that the cytotoxicity of the oximes decreased with elongation of alkyl groups a t the side chain. All of the synthesized compounds showed higher cytotoxici ty against L1210 cells than A549 cells.