Synthesis and Antiplasmodial Activity of 3-Furyl and 3-Thienylquinoxaline-2-carbonitrile 1,4-Di-N-oxide Derivatives

The aim of this study was to identify new compounds active against Plasmodium falciparum based on our previous research carried out on 3-phenyl- quinoxaline-2-carbonitrile 1,4-di-N-oxide derivatives. Twelve compounds were synthesized and evaluated for antimalarial activity. Eight of them showed an IC50 < 1 μM against the 3D7 strain. Derivative 1 demonstrated high potency (IC50= 0.63 µM) and good selectivity (SI=10.35), thereby becoming a new lead-compound.