Synthesis, Spectroscopic Characterization, and Biological Evaluation of a Novel Acyclic Heterocyclic Compound: Anticancer, Antioxidant, Antifungal, and Molecular Docking Studies

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to synthesize a novel, high-molecular-weight acyclic heterocyclic compound, compound 5, via a one-pot reaction between Trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA) and ethanolamine, and evaluate its anticancer, antioxidant, and antifungal activities. Methods: Its complex tetrameric structure, assembled through N-N linkages, was unequivocally confirmed by a full suite of spectroscopic techniques including IR, 1H & 13C NMR, 2D-NMR, and high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC/Q-TOF/MS). The MTT assay was used to assess the anticancer activity of compound 5 against four different human cancer cell lines. Results: The findings indicate that human colon (HT29) and ovarian (OVCAR3) cancer cells were sensitive to the treatment, whereas brain (glioblastoma) (T98G) cancer cells were resistant. The most pronounced cytotoxic effect was observed in pancreatic (MiaPaCa2) cancer cells. Notably, compound 5 exhibited potent antifungal properties, achieving 100% inhibition of the pathogenic water mould Saprolegnia parasitica zoospores at 100 mu M after 10 min. Molecular docking studies corroborated the biological data, revealing a high binding affinity for key cancer and fungal targets (Thymidylate Synthase and CYP51), providing a strong mechanistic basis for its observed activities. Conclusions: These findings establish compound 5 as a promising dual-action agent with significant potential as both a targeted anticancer lead and an eco-friendly antifungal for applications in aquaculture.