Design, Synthesis, and Anticancer Activity of Cinnamoylated Barbituric Acid Derivatives

This work deals with the design and synthesis of 18 barbituric acid derivatives bearing 1,3-dimethylbarbituric acid and cinnamic acid scaffolds to find potent anticancer agents. The target molecules were obtained through Knoevenagel condensation and acylation reaction. The cytotoxicity was assessed by the MTT assay. Flowcytometry was performed to determine the cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, ROS levels and the loss of MMP. The ratios of GSH/GSSG and the MDA levels were determined by using UV spectrophotometry. The results revealed that introducing substitutions (CF3, OCF3, F) on the meta- of the benzyl ring of barbituric acid derivatives led to a considerable increase in the antiproliferative activities compared with that of corresponding ortho- and para-substituted barbituric acid derivatives. Mechanism investigation implied that the 1c could increase the ROS and MDA level, decrease the ratio of GSH/GSSG and MMP, and lead to cell cycle arrest. Further research is needed for structural optimization to enhance hydrophilicity, thereby improve the biological activity of these compounds.

Automated summary

This work focuses on the design and synthesis of barbituric acid derivatives containing 1,3-dimethylbarbituric acid and cinnamic acid scaffolds for the development of potent anticancer agents. The results showed that certain substitutions on the benzyl ring of barbituric acid derivatives led to increased antiproliferative activities. Mechanistic investigation revealed the potential of one derivative to induce cell cycle arrest and increase ROS levels.