Cytotoxic α-bromoacrylic derivatives of distamycin analogues modified at the amidino moiety

Abstract The design, synthesis, in vitro and in vivo activities of novel α-bromoacrylic derivatives of distamycin A, modified at the amidino moiety by the replacement with basic or non-basic groups are reported. In spite of the relevance of these modifications of distamycin frame, the new derivatives are potent cytotoxics. The presence of the amidino moiety, is, therefore, not an absolute requirement for the activity. In particular due to a favorable myelotoxicity/cytotoxicity ratio, guanidino derivative PNU 166196 was selected for clinical development.