Synthesis and biological activities of chloroethylurea, methylurea, and nitrosourea analogs of N-deacetylmethylthiocolchicine

Abstract
A series of urea and nitrosourea analogs of N-deacetylmethylthiocolchicine was synthesized; their antineoplastic and antiviral activities were evaluated. The objective for combination of 2 active moieties, such as thiocolchicine and nitrosourea, into 1 molecule was the generation of compounds with potential improved biological and pharmacological properties. The ED50 for the analogs was 1.6, 1.2, 3.3, and 1.8 .times. 10-8 M for [mouse leukemia] L1210 cells and 3.0, 2.7, 2.9, and 2.6 .times. 10-8 M for [mouse sarcoma] S-180 cells, respectively. The synthesis and cytotoxic and antiviral properties of these compounds are discussed.