Cyclic Voltammetry of Quinolinium Salts and Related Compounds: Correlation with Structure and Anticancer Activity

Cyclic voltammetry data were obtained for 12 salts of quinolines, one pyridine, and one open-chain imine which possess varying degrees of anticancer activity. The structural features include sidechain bis(2-methylthio)vinyl, 2-methylthio-2-aminovinyl, dithioacetic acid, 2-quinolylvinyl, 2-styrylvinyl, and guanidine sulfide functionalities. Reduction potentials ranged from −0.43 to −1.08V. The electrochemical results are correlated with structure. A possible mechanism of anticancer action is addressed.