Synthesis and Mutagenic Activity of Alkyl Derivatives of 2-Amino-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]indole

Abstract

Two mutagenic compounds were isolated from the pyrolysate of soybean globulin: 2-amino-3-methyl-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]indole (MeAC) and 2-amino-3-ethyl-9H-pyrido[2,3-6]indole (EtAC). These two and other 3-substituted derivatives were synthesized by the condensation of 2-aminoindole with enaminonitriles, and tested for their mutagenic activity. The bulkiness of the alkyl group at C-3 position adjacent to the amino group was related to the mutagenic strength. 2-Amino-3-butyl-9H-pyrido[2,3-6]indole and the bulkier alkyl derivatives were not mutagenic. © 1981, Japan Society for Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Agrochemistry. All rights reserved.