Tuning Scaffold Properties of New 1,4-Substituted Pyrrolo[3,2-c]quinoline Derivatives Endowed with Anticancer Potential, New Biological and In Silico Insights

A new series of pyrrolo[3,2-c]quinoline derivatives was synthesized to enhance antiproliferative activity, focusing on modifications to the benzodioxole moiety. Through NCI antiproliferative screening and MTS-based assays, compound 7p was identified as a promising hit, showing cytotoxic activity in the low micromolar range against MCF-7 and HeLa cells. Additional biological evaluations, such as apoptosis induction and clonogenic tests, supported its anticancer potential. In silico docking revealed a multi-target profile, indicating potential for rational polypharmacology and guiding further lead optimization for enhanced anticancer activity.