Spectroscopic and In Silico DNA Binding Studies on the Interaction of Some New N-Substituted Rhodanines with Calf-thymus DNA: In Vitro Anticancer Activities

Background: In this era of science, cancer is a black dot on the face of humankind. Consequently, the search of promising anticancer agents continues. Aims: Here we designed and synthesized new N-substituted rhodanines (RD1-7), evaluated their multispectroscopic interaction with calf thymus DNA, in silico and anticancer studies against MDA-MB-231cancer cell line. Methods: By MTT assay rhodanine RD1 was found to be the most potent with IC50 value of 72.61 μM. In addition, DNA binding studies (UV-vis and fluorescence) revealed strong binding affinity of RD1-7 with DNA (Kb in the range of 1.5-7.4 x 105 M-1). Moreover, molecular docking study, experimental DNA binding and anticancer studies are all well agreed to each other. Results: It was observed that H-bonding and hydrophobic attractions were responsible for stability of DNAcompound adducts. Besides, the reported rhodanines (RD1-7) were found as minor groove binders of DNA. Concisely, RD1-7 indicated promising pharmacological properties and hence, shows auspicious future for the development of novel anticancer agents. Conclusion: The reported rhodanines showed excellent anticancer properties. Therefore, the described rhodanines may be used as potential anticancer agents in the future.