Synthesis, biological evaluation and docking study of maleimide derivatives bearing benzenesulfonamide as selective COX-2 inhibitors and anti-inflammatory agents

Abstract

A series of maleimide analogs bearing benzenesulfonamide were synthesized (4a–r). The anti-inflammatory activity of synthesized derivatives was evaluated using carrageenan induced rat paw edema model. COX-1 and COX-2 potency was evaluated through in vitro cyclooxygenase assays. The results revealed that, compounds 4a, 4h, 4j, 4k and 4r had potent COX-2 percentage inhibition as well as in vivo anti-inflammatory activity. The potent compound 4j was docked into the COX-2 active site to determine the probable binding model. The results of in vivo and in vitro studies demonstrate that phenyl ring with electron withdrawing groups on maleimide ring would generate more potent anti-inflammatory agents. Thus, these compounds can serve as potential leads for further anti-inflammatory studies.