Oriented synthesis and in vitro anticancer activity of biquinazoline-2,2'-diones.

The synthesis of a series of biquinazoline-2,2'-diones starting from o-nitrobenzaldehydes, anilines, and triphosgene is presented. This general approach features a novel and easy way for access to the target products. The mechanistic course of the reaction suggests the involvement of reduction, coupling, and cyclization by one-pot. These compounds were also investigated in vitro for anticancer activity, and some were found to have good anticancer activity.