Tumor inhibitors having potential for interaction with mercapto enzymes and/or coenzymes

On the basis of extensive information on in vivo metabolism as well as biomimetic reactions using simple SH compounds and some enzymes, numerous chemical functions which react with SH groups are divided into two classes; i.e., one which involves electrophilic addition (EA) to an SH group and the other which features displacement reactions (DR) by the SH group (see Tables 1 and 2). The known tumor inhibitors are accordingly classified into EA and DR types. Biomimetic reactions of tumor inhibitors with model compounds of SH enzymes (or coenzymes) and with some SH enzymes themselves are described. Finally, as enhancement factors for the antitumor activity, the roles of hydrogen-bonding, neighboring group participation, and effect of ester side chains are introduced. These discussions may serve in the development of the new SH alkylating antitumor agents.