Selective Interactions with Various G-Quadruplex DNA Forming Sequences by Berberine and Palmatine Analogues

Abstract

In this article/review, the selective interactions of several berberine and palmatine derivatives with various DNA G-quadruplex structures are reported. These derivatives were constructed starting from two natural compounds, berberine and palamatine, through specific synthetic passages following two different schemes for each of them and using several substituents. The details of these synthesis are also described. Indeed, the study of the interactions of these derivative compounds with various G-quadruplex forming sequences was carried out by means of various structural and biochemical techniques. The results show that the presence of suitable side chains are very useful to improve the interaction of the ligands with G-quadruplex structures. Thus, since G-quadruplex formation is promoted by these compounds, which have never been reported before, these may be tested as potential anticancer drugs.

Amino‐Acid‐Anthraquinone Click Chemistry Conjugates Selectively Target Human Telomeric G‐Quadruplexes

“…Different G4 stabilizing molecules such as anthraquinones (AQs), [6–8] porphyrins, perylenes, [9] acridines, anthracenes, [10,11] xanthones, [12,13] and also natural compounds [14–17] have been shown to inhibit the telomere elongation operated by telomerase, and several other derivatives are under investigation as potential anticancer drugs. AQs are well‐known nucleic acids ligands [6,8] .…”

Palmatine: A review of pharmacological properties and pharmacokinetics

“…Palmatine (PLT) from a chemical point of view is a protoberberine isoquinoline alkaloid (structure shown in Figure ), a quaternary ammonium salt (Franceschin et al, ), which has four methoxyl moieties in the C‐2 and C‐3 positions of its phenyl rings; PLT is one of the main bioactive compounds present in several representatives of different botanical genders, such as Coptis spp., Phellodendron spp., Fibraurea spp., Corydalis spp., Berberis spp. , Papaver spp., Enantia spp., and others (Pustovidko et al, ; Wang, Zhang, & Zhang, ; Yang et al, ).…”