New potential inhibitors of DNA topoisomerase. Part II: Design and synthesis of α-lapachone derivatives under microwave irradiation

A new series of potential inhibitors of DNA topoisomerase II were synthesized from facile materials (aromatic aldehydes, Meldrum's acid and 2-hydroxynaphthalene-1,4-dione) under microwave irradiation. The method provides a valuable tool in designing new and more potent cytotoxic analogues. This procedure is advantageous both economically and environmentally. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.