Phosphonate-linked pyrrolo[2,1-c][1,4]benzodiazepine conjugates: Synthesis, DNA-binding affinity and cytotoxicity Original Research Article

Pyrrolobenzodiazepine-diethylphosphonate conjugates have been designed and synthesized that link through two different types of spacers that are simple alkane chain and also a piperazine moiety side-armed with the alkane chains. These pyrrolobenzodiazepine conjugates have exhibited remarkable DNA-binding affinity and improved solubility in water, a representative compound 7d showing promising in vitro cytotoxicity.