Abstract: Objective · To discover lead compounds with 6,11-dihydro-5H-benzo[a]carbazole as core scaffold that can inhibit the proliferation of cervical cancer cells. Methods · A series of 6,11-dihydro-5H-benzo[a]carbazole derivatives and analogs were synthesized using Fischer indole synthesis method, and their anticancer activity against HeLa cells was tested in vitroCCK8 test. Results · 2-Methoxy-6,11-dihydro-5H-benzo[a]carbazole and 8-chloro-2methoxy- 6,11-dihydro-5H-benzo[a]carbazole could significantly inhibit the proliferation of HeLa cells with the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50)values of 9.61 μmol/L and 16.52 μmol/L, respectively. Conclusion · Two objective lead compounds were found. Among 6,11-dihydro-5H-benzo[a]carbazole derivatives, compounds with methoxy group at the C-2 position of the core scaffold show better activity against proliferation of cervical cancer cells.

Key words: 6,11-dihydro-5H-benzo[a]carbazole analogues, privileged structure, cervical cancer, lead compound