Synthesis and cytotoxicity of novel lignans

Article abstract of DOI:10.1021/jm00012a010

In this study the syntheses of 11 novel lignans are described. Their cytotoxicities are studied in GLC₄, a human small cell lung carcinoma cell line, using the microculture tetrazolium (MTT) assay. Ten of these compounds were substituted with a menthyloxy group on the 5-position of the lactone. These compounds can easily be prepared in (novel) 'one-pot', three- or four- step syntheses. In addition, methods for controlling the stereogenic centers are described. Furthermore, five naturally occurring podophyllotoxin-related compounds were tested. The cytotoxicities of all lignan compounds, and of three non-lignan intermediates originating from the syntheses, were compared with the clinically applied anticancer agents etoposide, teniposide, and cisplatin. Most compounds showed moderate to high activities against GLC₄, and two of the compounds containing a menthyloxy group showed activities comparable to the reference cytotoxic agents.