Topoisomerase IIα is an enzyme that catalyzes geometric changes in the DNA molecule and plays an essential role in cell division and cancer development. Its inhibitors prevent cell proliferation and are therefore used as antitumor agents. Their pharmacological effect depends on their ability to cross the cell membrane, which is closely linked to the lipophilicity of the compound.
In this master's thesis, we examined the relationship between the chemical structure of topoisomerase IIα inhibitors, their lipophilicity, and their ability to permeate the cell membrane. For sample analysis, we developed a method based on ultra‑high‑performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. A triple quadrupole mass analyzer with electrospray ionization was used to determine analyte concentrations in samples. Compound concentrations were determined using a calibration curve prepared volumetrically in the range from 0,5 to 2000 nmol/L. Linearity was verified by the coefficient of determination, with the target value of at least 0,999. Lipophilicity of inhibitors was assessed from distribution coefficient values of eight compounds, obtained using a miniaturized shake-flask method at two different volumetric ratios of aqueous and organic phase. The method proved suitable for amines, but not for carboxylic acids. The obtained distribution coefficient values ranged from 1 to 3,5, indicating theoretically appropriate lipophilicity and water solubility for crossing the cell membrane.
Permeability was assessed for six compounds using the MCF‑7 cell line by collecting samples of supernatant and cell lysate. Experimental results confirmed membrane penetration for one of the tested compounds with a distribution coefficient of 3,5. The results confirmed that the distribution coefficient is a useful parameter for predicting the basic distribution properties of compounds, but a more comprehensive understanding of cellular permeability requires consideration of additional physicochemical properties. Follow-up experiments should include additional optimization of the analytical method, particularly for the determination of the lowest concentrations, as well as expanding the set of compounds and performing additional cell-based measurements at longer time intervals to obtain a more complete picture of membrane permeability.
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