Discovery of Novel N-(Anthracen-9-ylmethyl) Benzamide Derivatives as ZNF207 Inhibitors Promising in Treating Glioma

J Med Chem. 2024 Mar 14;67(5):3909-3934. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02241. Epub 2024 Feb 20.

Abstract

Targeting tumor stemness is an innovative approach to cancer treatment. Zinc Finger Protein 207 (ZNF207) is a promising target for weakening the stemness of glioma cells. Here, a series of novel N-(anthracen-9-ylmethyl) benzamide derivatives against ZNF207 were rationally designed and synthesized. The inhibitory activity was evaluated, and their structure-activity relationships were summarized. Among them, C16 exhibited the most potent inhibitory activity, as evidenced by its IC50 values ranging from 0.5-2.5 μM for inhibiting sphere formation and 0.5-15 μM for cytotoxicity. Furthermore, we found that C16 could hinder tumorigenesis and migration and promote apoptosis in vitro. These effects were attributed to the downregulation of stem-related genes. The in vivo evaluation demonstrated that C16 exhibited efficient permeability across the blood-brain barrier and potent efficacy in both subcutaneous and orthotopic glioma tumor models. Hence, C16 may serve as a potential lead compound targeting ZNF207 and has promising therapeutic potential for glioma.

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents* / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Apoptosis
  • Benzamides / pharmacology
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Cell Proliferation
  • Glioma* / drug therapy
  • Glioma* / pathology
  • Humans
  • Microtubule-Associated Proteins
  • Structure-Activity Relationship

Substances

  • Benzamides
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • ZNF207 protein, human
  • Microtubule-Associated Proteins