Title:Design, Molecular Modeling, MD Simulations, Essential Dynamics, ADMET, DFT,
Synthesis, Anti-proliferative, and Apoptotic Evaluations of a New Anti-VEGFR-2
Nicotinamide Analogue
Volume: 29
Issue: 36
Author(s): Ibrahim H. Eissa, Eslam B. Elkaeed*, Hazem Elkady, Reda G. Yousef, Bshra A. Alsfouk, Heba S.A. Elzahabi, Ibrahim M. Ibrahim, Ahmed M. Metwaly*Dalal Z. Husein
Affiliation:
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacognosy and Medicinal Plants Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
- Biopharmaceutical Products Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific
Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), Alexandria, Egypt
Keywords:
Nicotinamide derivative, anticancer, VEGFR-2, MD simulations, DFT, PCAT.
Abstract:
Objectives: This study aims to design and evaluate (in silico and in vitro) a new nicotinamide derivative
as an inhibitor of VEGFR-2, a major mediator of angiogenesis
Methods: The following in silico studies were performed; DFT calculations, molecular modelling, MD simulations,
MM-GBSA, PLIP, and PCAT studies. The compound's in silico (ADMET) analysis was also
conducted. Subsequently, the compound ((E)-N-(4-(1-(2-(4-(4-Chlorobenzamido)benzoyl)hydrazono)ethyl)
phenyl)nicotinamide) was successfully synthesized and designated as compound X. In vitro, VEGFR-2 inhibition
and cytotoxicity of compound X against HCT-116 and A549 cancer cell lines and normal Vero cell lines
were conducted. Apoptosis induction and migration assay of HCT-116 cell lines after treatment with compound
X were also evaluated.
Results: DFT calculations assigned stability and reactivity of compound X. Molecular docking and MD simulations
indicated its excellent binding against VEGFR-2. Furthermore, MM-GBSA analysis, PLIP experiments,
and PCAT studies confirmed compound X’s correct binding with optimal dynamics and energy. ADMET
analysis expressed its general likeness and safety. The in vitro assays demonstrated that compound X
effectively inhibited VEGFR-2, with an IC50 value of 0.319 ± 0.013 μM and displayed cytotoxicity against
HCT-116 and A549 cancer cell lines, with IC50 values of 57.93 and 78.82 μM, respectively. Importantly,
compound X exhibited minimal toxicity towards the non-cancerous Vero cell lines, (IC50 = 164.12 μM). Additionally,
compound X significantly induced apoptosis of HCT-116 cell lines and inhibited their potential to
migrate and heal.
Conclusion: In summary, the presented study has identified compound X as a promising candidate for the development
of a novel apoptotic lead anticancer drug.