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

A series of urea and nitrosourea analogues of N-deacetylmethylthiocolchicine (1) has been synthesized, and their antineoplastic and antiviral activities were evaluated. The objective for combination of two active moieties, such as thiocolchicine and nitrosourea, into one molecule was the generation of compounds with potential improved biological and pharmacological properties. The ED50 for 2, 3, 4, and 5 was 1.6, 1.2, 3.3, and 1.8 X 10(-8) M for L1210 cells and 3.0, 2.7, 2.9, and 2.6 X 10(-8) M for S-180 cells, respectively. The synthesis and cytotoxic and antiviral properties of these compounds are discussed.