Synthesis and cytotoxic effects on pancreatic cancer cells of resveratrol analogs

In this study, a series of resveratrol analogs was synthesized and the effects on the viability of pancreatic cancer cell lines were evaluated. The new molecules were designed by removing the 3- and 5-OH groups of resveratrol, and by incorporating other substituents in 4-position, or by replacing the dihydroxybenzene with other aromatic systems. In all compounds the 4′- OH was kept unalterated. The effects of the compounds on cell viability were analyzed in three pancreatic cancer cell lines with distinct genetic profiles. Several compounds (e.g., 5, 9, and 12) exhibited improved cytotoxic activities as compared to the reference compounds, making them potential candidates for further evaluation as anticancer drugs.