Exploring β-carboline hybrids and their derivatives: A review on synthesis and anticancer efficiency

• Published in: European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
• Main Author: Sulaiman N.F.; Zulkifli S.Z.; Saaidin A.S.; Lekkala R.; Izzaty Hassan N.; Pungot N.H.
• Format: Review
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Masson s.r.l. 2025
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85218258174&doi=10.1016%2fj.ejmech.2025.117412&partnerID=40&md5=bdbccb747fc0f676d1cf470e25e697f2

β-Carboline is a crucial compound in medicinal chemistry known for its versatile pharmacological activities. Recent research has focused on hybrid molecules incorporating a β-carboline scaffold linked to other pharmacophore moieties. These hybrid compounds have demonstrated diverse therapeutic properties, including anticancer, antianxiety, antimalarial, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antileishmanial, and antioxidant effects. This review highlights studies conducted from 2014 to the present with a particular emphasis on the development of β-carboline hybrid compounds and their derivatives as potent anticancer agents. The structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis reveals that these hybrids exhibit significant cytotoxicity against various cancer cell lines. This review aims to inspire further research into the novel synthesis and evolution of β-carboline hybrids and their derivatives, potentially leading to new therapeutic advancements. © 2025 Elsevier Masson SAS