10.1016/j.ejmech.2011.09.008
The research investigates the design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel cinnamate, thiocinnamate, and thionocinnamate analogs derived from natural products for their ability to inhibit the expression of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) on human endothelial cells. The study aims to identify potent inhibitors of TNF-α-induced ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin expression, which are critical in inflammatory responses. The key chemicals used include various cinnamates, thiocinnamates, and thionocinnamates, with ethyl 3,4,5-trimethoxythionocinnamate (ETMTC) emerging as the most potent inhibitor. The research concludes that these compounds, particularly ETMTC, significantly inhibit the expression of CAMs and neutrophil adhesion to endothelial cells, suggesting their potential as anti-inflammatory agents. The findings highlight the importance of the alkyl chain length, the number of methoxy groups, and the presence of sulfur in the structure for enhancing inhibitory activity.