Exploring anticancer properties of new triazole-linked benzenesulfonamide derivatives against colorectal carcinoma: Synthesis, cytotoxicity, and in silico insights

Abstract

This study reports the design, synthesis, and characterization of a novel series of benzene sulfonamide-triazole hybrid derivatives, to evaluate their anticancer potential against colorectal cancer. The synthesized compounds were characterized using NMR and HRMS spectroscopic techniques. In vitro cytotoxicity assessments revealed that compounds 5g and 5j exhibited significant anticancer effects. 5g showed the highest potency in the DLD-1 cell line (IC50 = 11.84 µM), while 5j demonstrated robust activity in the HT-29 cell line (IC50 = 9.35 µM). Apoptotic analysis indicated that compound 5g effectively induced early and total apoptosis, surpassing the chemotherapeutic agent 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), highlighting its therapeutic potential. Molecular docking studies showed strong binding interactions with key proteins involved in colorectal cancer progression, such as TGFβ2 and VEGFR1. 5j displayed a high binding affinity for TGFβ2 (MM-GBSA ΔG = −92.52 kcal/mol) and 5g showed promising interactions with VEGFR1 (ΔG = −70.63 kcal/mol). Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of the ligand–protein complexes, indicating potential as targeted therapeutic agents. Compounds 5g and 5j demonstrate significant promise for further development in colorectal cancer treatment. © 2025 Elsevier Lt