Synthesis, antitumor cytotoxicity, and DNA-binding of novel N-5,2-di(omega-aminoalkyl)-2,6-dihydropyrazolo[3,4,5-kl]acridine-5-carboxamides

A series of DNA-binding potential antitumor agents bearing a cationic carbo xamide side chain attached in position peri to an electron-withdrawing atom , N-5,2-di(omega -aminoalkyl)-2,6-dihydropyrazolo[3,4,5-kl]acridine-5-carbo xamides, has been prepared by reaction of the appropriate 1-chloro-9-oxo-9, 10-dihyclro-4-acridinecarboxamides with the suitable (omega -aminoalkyl)-hy drazine. The noncovalent DNA-binding properties of these compounds have bee n examined using a fluorometric technique. In vitro cytotoxic potency of th ese derivatives toward the human colon adenocarcinoma cell line (HT29) is d escribed and compared to that of reference drugs. Structure-activity relati onships are discussed. Two highly DNA-affinic and potent cytotoxic compound s, 4m,o, have been identified as new leads in the antitumor strategies.