Purine Derivatives in Medicinal Chemistry: Design, Synthesis, and Application in Cancer Treatment

Abstract

Many often-used anti-cancer medications are based on heterocyclic compounds, which are fundamental to modern medicinal chemistry. Among these are purine derivatives, which are becoming well-known because of their structural resemblance to natural nucleo bases. This likeness lets them interface with biological targets promoting cancer development. Purine-based substances have shown great anticancer potential in studies on breast cancer by affecting key cellular processes including signal transduction, cell cycle control, programmed cell death, and neovascularization. By precisely altering the purine structure at sites such C-6, N-9, and C-8, new derivatives and hybrid compounds with superior activity, selectivity, and suitable drug-like properties have been created. These substances finally restrict the development and spread of tumor cells by targeting vital molecular targets including heat shock proteins, cyclin-dependent kinases, and enzymes engaged in purine synthesis. Several purine derivatives in particular have shown amazing efficacy against aggressive and therapy-resistant types of breast cancer including triple-negative breast cancer.