Title of Invention

AZAINDOLE-INDOLE COUPLED DERIVATIVES AND PREPARATION METHODS

Abstract A novel class of azaindole-indole coupled derivatives, their preparation methods, pharmaceutical compositions containing the same and the uses thereof. The common structural feature of these derivatives is that they are coupled by azaindole and indole bi-molecule at different positions, forming extended pi-conjuated systems. Such derivatives inhibited cell growth and proliferation by various mechanisms. The present compounds have improved solubility, increased bioavailability, and thus have enhanced drug actions, and reduced medical dosages and unfavored responses.
Full Text

Azaindole-indole coupled derivatives, preparation methods and uses thereof
Technical Field
The present invention relates to a novel class of azaindole-indole coupled derivatives. The common
structural feature of these derivatives is that they are coupled by azaindole and indole molecules at in different
positions, forming extended pi conjugated heterocyclic systems. These derivatives inhibit cell growth and
proliferation through various mechanisms. The invention also relates to the preparation methods of such
derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same and the uses thereof.
Background
The present invention is the continuation application of "A specific indoles compounds and preparation
methods thereof (Application Number: 02138518.1; granted on May 4, 2005), "A pharmaceutical emulsion
suitable for undissolved medicaments and preparation methods thereof (Application Number:
200410052816.5; Application date: July 14, 2007), "Preparation methods of N(l)-hydrocarbyl-3'-oximido
indirubin derivatives (I) and medical uses thereof (Application Number: 200510094482.2; granted on: August
1, 2007) and "A dispersing agent suitable for undissolved medicaments" (Application Number:
200610038112.1; Application date: January 17, 2006).
Monomelic compounds from plants are the major class among anti-tumor drugs. For instance,
camptothecin isolated from Camptothera acuminate and paclitaxel obtained from Cephalotaxus are the
well-known examples.
Through researching traditional medicinal plants with modern pharmaceutical memods, it is found mat
indirubin (1, indirubin, 2',3-bisindole, purple), a bisindole derivative contained in Qingdai, is effective in the
treatment of chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML). It has advantages of quick onset, low dose, little side effects,
and low cost, etc. Subsequendy, extensive structural modifications and biological activity studies on bisindole
compounds obtained from Qingdai [including indigo (2), 2, 2'-bisindole, blue; isoindigo (3), 3, 3'-bisindole,
brown] were carried out. As a result, N-1-methylisoindigo was found to have better efficacy and lower toxicity
than indirubin.

Further studies demonstrate mat the pharmacodynamic mechanism of indirubin and derivatives thereof
inhibit tumor proliferation by inhibiting cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs)
The cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are typical serine (Ser) / threonine (Thr) kinases and signaling
molecules of cell growth. CDKs mainly act on different phases of the cell cycle (a cell cycle is classified into
four phases: G1, S, G2 and M), and allow for cell growth, proliferation (DNA replication and chromosome
segregation), dormancy (cells are out of cell cycle and enter the quiescent period of cell division, known as the
G0 phase) or apoptosis. CDKs can also regulate nerve and thymus function. Unlike other kinases, a hybrid
dimer complex formed with the corresponding cyclins is necessary for the catalytic functions of CDKs. At
least 9 CDKs (CDK1~9) and 11 cyclins (A~J) have been identified in human cells. Different CDKs bind to
different cyclins or cyclin subunits. For instance, CDK1 (cdc2) binds to cyclin A and B1-B3; CDK2 binds to
cyclin A, D1-D3 and E; CDK4, CDK5 and CDK6 bind to cyclin D1-D3; CDK5 also binds to pk35; CDK7 binds
to cyclin H; and CDK6 binds to cyclin K which is D-related.

According to biomedicine research that have won 2001 Nobel Prize, "the relationship between
proliferation and cancer", all kinds of abnormality of CDKs are present in almost all tumor cells " , and cancer
cells enter S, G2 and M phases in cycles and immortalize. For example, over 85% of breast cancer patients
demonstrate abnormality in cyclinE/CDK4/6 . Multiple tumors can be treated by inhibiting CDKs to
effectively preventing cell proliferation (but not killing cells), thus, either promoting cell differentiation, or
promoting cell apoptosis. It is believed that CDK inhibitors are a new class of anticancer drugs with broad
spectrum. In addition, these drugs will have strong selectivity, good efficacy and low toxicity due to their
cytostatic, not cytotoxic activity.
It is shown that CDK inhibitors effectively inhibit growth of various cancer cells, such as cancer of breast,
colon, prostate, and brain tumor, etc. These compounds can also effectively inhibit clinically refractory
androgen-independent prostate cancer cells (PC-3, DU-145), hormones and many other chemotherapy-resistant
advanced metastatic prostate cancer cells due to their ability to inhibit cell proliferation, which is more
significandy. As a result, it has become a new reasonable strategy to develop anticancer drugs by looking for
CDK inhibitors [4-6).
So far, nearly 10 types of small molecule CDK inhibitors and/or regulating agents have been studied,
which are mainly ATP-regional oriented CDK inhibitors . Indirubin and N-1-methylisoindigo, which have
been used clinically are one type of CDK inhibitors. In addition, UCN-01 and flavopiridol, which was
developed by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) of United States, have entered clinical trails ['01.

In summary, indirubin bisindole derivatives are important CDK inhibitors that have little toxic
side-effects. However, clinical applications of these compounds are influenced by their poor water-solubility
and liposolubility. In recent years, extensive structural modifications for indirubin derivatives have been
made by many foreign pharmaceutical research institutions and pharmaceutical companies. However, the
anti-tumor effects of indirubin bisindole derivatives are still dissatisfactory.
In a word, there's an urgent need to develop new CDK inhibitors with excellent performance.
Summarized of the Invention
The purpose of the present invention is to provide azaindole-indole coupled derivatives which can be used
as CDK inhibitors. Such compounds have many advantages, such as high inhibitory activity, improved water
solubility, etc.
Another purpose of the present invention is to provide preparation methods, pharmaceutical compositions
and uses of the compounds.
In the first aspect of the present invention, azaindole-indole coupled derivatives having the formula (IG)
or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof are provided:
Y=Z (IG)
wherein,
Y is an azaindole group represented by (Y1) or (Y2);


Z is an indole group represented by (Z1) or (Z2);

"=" represents double bond which is located between the 3-position of the azaindole group (Y) and the 2'-
or 3'-position of the indole group (Z);
in the above Y1, Y2, Z1 and Z2, R1 and R1 independently represent H or the following groups which may
be unsubstituted or substituted by 1 to 3 substituents: C1-C6 alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, acyl, aroyl, glycosyl or biosyl
protected by acyl, glycosyl or biosyl; wherein said substituents are selected from: halogen, hydroxyl, C1-C3
alkyl, nitro or amino;
R2, R3, R4, R2, R3, R4 and R independendy represent H, halogen, hydroxyl, sulfhydryl, or the following
groups which may be unsubstituted or substituted by 1 to 3 substituents: C1-C4 alkyl, nitro, amino, amido,
amide, C1-C4 alkoxy, methylthio, phenyl, phenoxy, aryl, aralkyl, trifluoromethyl, acyl, aroyl, sulfonic group,
sulfamoyl, isocyanate, or alkyl isocyanate; wherein said substituents are selected from: halogen, hydroxyl,
C1-C3 alkyl, nitro or amino.
R represents oxygen, sulfur, or selenium, or a NR6 or NOR6 group, wherein R6 is H, or the following
groups which may be unsubstituted or substituted by 1 to 3 substituents: C1-C6 straight-chain or
branched-chain alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, C3-C6 alicyclic group, acyl, aroyl, sulfonyl or phosphoryl; wherein said
substituents are selected from: halogen, hydroxyl, C1-C3 alkyl, nitro or amino.
In another preferred embodiment, the compounds are represented by (I), (II), (HI) or (TV), wherein (I) is
5-azaindirubin derivatives, (II) is 5-azaisoindigo derivatives, (III) is 7-azaindirubin derivatives, and (TV) is
7-azaisoindigo derivatives:

wherein, R, R1, R2, R3, R4, R1', R2', R3', R4' and R5' are defined as above.

In another preferred embodiment, R1 and R1' independently represent H, C1-C6 alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, acyl,
aroyl, glycosyl protected by acyl, or glycosyl;
R2, R3, R4, R2, R3, R4and R5 independendy represent H, halogen, hydroxyl, sulfhydryl, C1-C4 alkyl,
amino, amine, amide, C1-C4 alkoxy, methylthio, phenyl, phenoxy, aryl, aralkyl, trifluoromethyl, acyl, aroyl,
sulfonic group, or isocyanate;
Glycosyl as mentioned above is arabinose, xylose, ribose, mannose, or glucose;
R represents oxygen, sulfur, or selenium, or a NR6 or NOR6 group, wherein R6 is H, C1-C6 straight-chain
or branched-chain alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, C3-C6 alicyclic group, acyl, aroyl, sulfonyl, or phosphoryl.
In another preferred embodiment, the compounds as described are selected from 5-azaindirubin
derivatives (Table 1: compound Nos 1-59), 5-azaisoindigo derivatives (Table 2: compound Nos 60-89),
7-azaindirubin derivatives (Table 3: compound Nos 92-150), or 7-azaisoindigo derivatives (Table 4: compound
Nos 151-180).
In another preferred embodiment, the pharmaceutically acceptable salts as described include salts derived
from inorganic acids, such as hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, phosphoric acid, nitric acid, and sulfuric
acid, or organic acids, such as methanoic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, succinic acid, naphthalene
disulfonic acid (1, 5), asiatic acid, oxalic acid, tartaric acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, benzoic acid,
butylcarboxylic acid, diethylacetic acid, malonic acid, amber acid, fumaric acid, pimelic acid, hexanedioic acid,
maleic acid, malic acid, aminosulfonic acid, phenylpropionic acid, gluconic acid, ascorbic acid, nicotinic acid,
isonicotinic acid, ethanesulfonic acid, para-toluenesulfonic acid, citric acid and amino acid.
In the second aspect of the present invention, a pharmaceutical composition is provided comprising: (a)
IG compounds of formula (IG) or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof; and (b) pharmaceutically
acceptable carriers.
In another preferred embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition further comprises other therapeutic
agents (such as antineoplastic agents, dermatologic agents, drugs for immune system, drugs for nervous system,
antidiabetic drugs).
In another preferred embodiment, that the dosage form of the pharmaceutical composition is low capacity
injection, medium capacity injection, high capacity injection, powder injection, emulsion for injection, tablet,
pill, capsule, paste, cream, patch, liniment, powder, spray, implantable agents, drop, suppository, ointment;
various nano preparations, or liposomes which can be made into injections as described above.
In another preferred embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition as described can be used alone or in
combination with other agents (such as surgery, one or more Western medicines, Chinese herbal medicines,
radiotherapy, gene therapy, or biologic regulators).
In the third aspect of the present invention, a method for preparing the pharmaceutical composition is
provided, comprising the following steps:
mixing (a) compounds of formula (IG) or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof with (b)
pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, thereby forming the pharmaceutical composition.
In the fourth aspect of the present invention, a use of compounds of formula (IG) or the pharmaceutically
acceptable salts thereof in treating the following diseases is provided: diseases caused by abnormal
cyclin-dependent kinases, disorders of cell growth and proliferation, or insulin resistance.
In another preferred embodiment, the diseases include malignant tumors, psoriasis, viral skin diseases,
acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, nervous system diseases (such as neurodegenerative disorder and
nervous disorder), and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
In the fifth aspect of the present invention, a composition is provided comprising the compounds of
formula (IG) or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof as cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors.

In another preferred embodiment, the compositions as described are health care products (containing
acceptable carriers for health care product), foods (containing bromatologically acceptable carriers) or
cosmetic products (containing cosmetically acceptable carriers).
In the sixth aspect of the present invention, a method that can be used to inhibit mammalian
cyclin-dependent kinases in vivo or in vitro, or to treat diseases caused by abnormal high activity of
cyclin-dependent kinases is provided, comprising the following steps: administrating to a subject in need
thereof the compounds of formula (IG) or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, or compositions
containing compounds of formula (IG) or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.
In another preferred embodiment, the diseases caused by abnormal high activity of cyclin-dependent
kinases are selected for the following group: malignant tumors, psoriasis, viral skin diseases, acquired
immunodeficiency syndrome, and nervous system diseases (such as neurodegenerative disorder and nervous
disorder).
Brief Description of Figures
Figure 1 shows the general formula of 5- or 7-azaindirubin derivatives and 5- or 7-azaisoindigo
derivatives.
Figure 2 shows the inhibition rates of growth of androgen-independent human prostate cancer cell lines
DU145 by 5- or 7- azaindirubin derivatives and 5- or 7- azaisoindigo derivatives. Human prostate cancer cell
lines DU145 in logarithmic growth phase were treated with different concentrations of the compounds No. 107,
No.108, No.112, No.115 for 72 hours, and then the cells growth was measured by MTT.
Figure 3 shows the inhibitory effects of 5- or 7-azaindirubin derivatives and 5- or 7- azaisoindigo
derivatives on CDKs in androgen-independent human prostate cancer cell lines DU145. The human prostate
cancer cell lines DU145 in logarithmic growth phase were treated with different concentrations of the
compounds No.124, No.126 for 24 hours. The total proteins were extracted, and then phospho-CDK2ther 160,
p27 and Cyclin-D1 were determined by Western blotting, with β-actin as an internal standard.
Detailed Description of the Invention
For the first time, the inventors develop a class of azaindole-indole coupled derivatives as CDK inhibitors.
These compounds are formed by azaindole and indole molecules coupled at different positions, forming
extended n conjugated heterocyclic systems. It has been indicated that this type of azaindole-indole coupled
derivatives can produce biological activities through a variety of mechanisms, including inhibiting cell growth
and proliferation, such as inhibiting cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), inducing endogenous cyclin-dependent
inhibitors (CDKIs), and recovering insulin signal transformation, etc. As a result, these compounds can be used
to treat various diseases caused by disorder of cell growth, including malignant tumors, psoriasis, viral skin
diseases, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, nervous system diseases (such as neurodegenerative disorder
and nervous disorder), and type 2 diabetes mellitus caused by insulin resistance, etc.
Compounds of The invention
As used herein, "compounds of the invention" or "azaindole-indole coupled derivatives of the invention"
are used interchangeably. They born refer to compounds of formula (IG) or the pharmaceutically acceptable
salts thereof.
Particularly, in the present invention, the structure of indirubin derivatives and isoindigo derivatives has
been modified in order to improve solubility, increase bioavailability, enhance therapeutic effect, reduce drug
dosage, and reduce untoward effects. Compared with the parental nucleus indirubin derivatives and isoindigo
derivatives, compounds of the invention form extended π conjugated heterocyclic systems, thus improving
the water solubility of the compounds.

Preferred compounds are represented by the general formula (I), (II), (III) or (IV), wherein (I) is
5-azaindirubin derivatives, (II) is 5-azaisoindigo derivatives, (HI) is 7-azaindirubin derivatives, and (IV) is
7-azaisoindigo derivatives:

R and R independently represent H or the following groups which may be unsubstituted or substituted
by 1 to 3 substituents: C1-C6 alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, acyl, aroyl, glycosyl or biosyl protected by acyl, glycosyl or
biosyl; wherein said substituents are selected from: halogen, hydroxyl, C1-C3 alkyl, nitro or amino;
R2, R3, R4, R2, R3, R4and R5 independently represent H, halogen, hydroxyl, sulfhydryl, or the following
groups which may be unsubstituted or substituted by 1 to 3 substituents: C1-C4 alkyl, nitro, amino, amido,
amide, C1-C4 alkoxy, methylthio, phenyl, phenoxy, aryl, aralkyl, trifluoromethyl, acyl, aroyl, sulfonic group,
sulfamoyl, isocyanate, or alkyl isocyanate; wherein said substituents are selected from: halogen, hydroxyl,
C1-C3 alkyl, nitro or amino.
R represents oxygen, sulfur, selenium; or a NR6 or NOR group, wherein R6 is H, or the following groups
which may be unsubstituted or substituted by 1 to 3 substituents: C1-C6 straight-chain or branched-chain alkyl,
aryl, aralkyl, C3-C6 alicyclic group, acyl, aroyl, sulfonyl, or phosphoryl; wherein said substituents are selected
from: halogen, hydroxyl, C1-C3 alkyl, nitro or amino.
Preferred compounds in the above compounds of general formula (I), (II), (III) and (IV) are:
wherein R and R independently represent H, C1-C6 alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, acyl, aroyl, glycosyl protected
by acyl, or glycosyl;
R2 , R3 , R4 , R2' , R3' , R4' and R5' independently represent H, halogen, hydroxyl, sulfhydryl, C1-C4 alkyl,
amino, amidoamine, amide, C1-C4 alkoxy, methylthio, phenyl, phenoxy, aryl, aralkyl, trifluoromethyl, acyl,
aroyl, sulfonic group, or isocyanate;
glycosyl as described above is arabinose, xylose, ribose, mannose, or glucose;
R represents oxygen, sulfur, selenium; or a NR6 or NOR6 group, wherein R6 is H, C1-C6 straight-chain or
branched-chain alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, C3-C6 alicyclic group, acyl, aroyl, sulfonyl, or phosphoryl.
The more preferred compounds are azaindole-indole coupled derivatives which are prepared in the


The present invention also includes salts formed by the invention compounds and pharmaceutically
acceptable inorganic acids, such as hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, phosphoric acid, nitric acid, sulfuric
acid, or organic acids, such as methanoic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, succinic acid, naphthalene
disulfonic acid (1, 5), asiatic acid, oxalic acid, tartaric acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, benzoic acid,
butylcarboxylic acid, diethylacetic acid, malonic acid, amber acid, fumaric acid, pimelic acid, hexanedioic acid,
maleic acid, malic acid, aminosulfonic acid, phenylpropionic acid, gluconic acid, ascorbic acid, nicotinic acid,
isonicotinic acid, ethanesulfonic acid, para-toluenesulfonic acid, citric acid and amino acid.
Salts as described possess improved physicochemical property and enhanced cell permeability, and they
can readily enter cells, thus improving the pharmacodynamic action.
Activities of the compounds according to the invention
The compounds according to the invention and salts thereof are cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors, and
can induce endogenous cyclin-dependent inhibitors (CDKIs), thus inhibiting cell growth and proliferation, and
promoting apoptosis of tumor cells. The compounds and salts thereof sensitize the peripheral tissues to insulin,
and reduce the insulin resistance by recovering insulin signal transformation. Therefore, compounds of the
invention and salts thereof can be used as medicine to treat diseases caused by abnormal CDKs, disorders of
cell growth and proliferation, and insulin resistance. The diseases include malignant tumors, psoriasis, viral
skin diseases, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, nervous system diseases (such as neurodegenerative
disorder and nervous disorder), type 2 diabetes mellirus, etc.
For understanding the present invention, the inventors provide the following contents to describe the
mechanism of the compounds according to the invention. However, it should be appreciated that the protection
scope of the invention is not restricted by the mechanism as described.
In the present invention, azaindirubin derivatives are essentially the product from an azaindole molecule
and an indole molecule coupled in the 3, 2'-position; while azaisoindigo derivatives are essentially the product
from an azaindole molecule and an indole molecule coupled in the 3, 3'-position. A carbon atom within indole
ring is replaced by a nitrogen atom, thereby obtaining the following four isomers:

Purines (see the following figure) are one of ten CDK inhibitors, the chemical structure of which are
currently known and which are the earliest studied CDK inhibitors[7]. With respect to the structure, azaindole
and purines are very have many similar aspects, both of which are five-membered heterocycle fused to
six-membered aromatic heterocycle.

The results of the invention demonstrate that the compounds have similar activity as CDK inhibitors.
Non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (type 2 diabetes mellirus) is one of the major diseases
endangering human health and leading to death. The pathogenesis is insulin resistance. It has been
demonstrated that indirubin derivatives have effect on the activity of PI3K (phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase) in
the insulin signal transduction pathway. They can activate Akt (protein kinase) and inhibit mTOR (mammalian
target of rapamycin), thus sensitizing the peripheral tissues to insulin, and reducing the insulin resistance.
Therefore, the derivatives of the invention can treat tumors, psoriasis, viral skin diseases, acquired
immunodeficiency syndrome, nervous system diseases (such as neurodegenerative disorder and nervous

disorder), and type 2 diabetes mellitus, etc.
Compositions and administration methods
The present invention also provides a composition containing the compounds according to the invention.
Said composition can be used to inhibit the activity of CDKs, induce CDKIs, and recover insulin signal
transformation. The compositions of the invention may be pharmaceutical compositions (containing
pharmaceutically acceptable carriers), health care products (containing acceptable carriers for health care
products), foods (containing bromatologically acceptable carriers) or cosmetic products (containing
cosmetically acceptable carriers).
Preferably, compositions of the invention are pharmaceutical compositions, comprising the compounds of
the invention (or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof) as well as various pharmaceutically acceptable
carriers or excipients.
The dosage form of pharmaceutical compositions according to the invention is not particularly limited,
and it may be any clinically acceptable formulation. The dosage form of pharmaceutical compositions
according to the invention includes: low capacity injection, medium capacity injection, high capacity injection,
powder injection, emulsion for injection, tablet, pill, capsule, paste, cream, patch, liniment, powder, spray,
implantable agents, drop, suppository, ointment; various nano preparations; and the corresponding liposomes
which can be made into injection as mentioned above. Generally, pharmaceutical preparations should be
compatible with the methods of administration.
Preferably, pharmaceutical compositions of the invention can be made into injection, liquid preparations,
and solid dosage forms. The pharmaceutical composition, such as solid formulation, can be prepared by
conventional methods. Preferably, pharmaceutical compositions, such as injection, liquid preparations, and
solid formulation, should be made under sterile or appropriately decontaminated conditions.
In another preferred embodiments, the injections of compounds according to the invention (or the
pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof) are provided, that is, emulsion, submicron emulsion, nano-emulsion
prepared using surfactants and/or solubilizers and/or oily components and/or other excipients.
In another preferred embodiments, solid dispersion preparations of compounds according to the invention
(or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof) are provided. The drugs are highly dispersed in inert carriers
with water-solubility, water-insolubility, intestine-solubility, forming solid dispersion systems in the solid form,
which in turn can be made into preparations, such as capsules, tablets, dropping pills, ointment, suppositories,
injection and so on by conventional methods. Therefore, not only the highly dispersity of drugs can be
maintained, but also the storage stability can be enhanced.
Administration routes
When using the pharmaceutical composition, a safe and effective dose of compounds according to the
invention is administered to mammals. Said dose is usually at least 1 ug/day, and in most cases no more than
about 10 mg/kg of body weight. Preferably, the dose is between about 1 ug and about 3 mg per kilogram of
body weight per day. Of course, with respect to the specific dose, factors, such as administration routes, health
status of patients, should be taken into consideration , which are within the capability of an experienced
physician.
The invention compounds (or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts) can be used alone or in combination
with other drugs.
Preferred combination includes: in combination with surgery, in combination with one or more Western
medicines, in combination with Chinese herbal medicines, in combination with radiotherapy, in combination
with gene therapy, or in combination with biologic regulators.
The administration routes of the pharmaceutical compositions according to the invention is not
particularly limited, including but not limit to: oral administration, injection, intratumor administration,

embedding administration, intracavitary administration, rectal administration, transdermal delivery, internal
and external application.
Preferred injection includes: intravenous injection, intramuscular injection, subcutaneous injection, and
intracavity injection.
Preparation methods
The compounds according to the invention of general formula (IG) can be prepared by the following
procedure and known synthetic methods in the art. Generally, during the preparation procedure, the reactions
are performed between -10°C and reflux temperature, usually between room temperature (about 25 °C) and
reflux temperature. Preferably, the reaction temperature is between 5 °C and 100 °C, more preferably, between
20 °C and 80 °C. Reaction time is not particularly limited. Generally, the reaction time is between 1 minute and
24 hours, preferably, between 1 hour and 20 hours. The solvents are usually polar solvents, such as water, DMF,
alcohol (such as methanol, ethanol, and isopropanol, etc.). The structures of synthesized compounds can be
identified by physico-chemical memods, such as hydrogen spectrum ('H-NMR), mass spectrometry (MS) and
elemental analysis.
1. Intermediates and target compounds of 5-azaindirubin (General Formula I)
(1) Synthesis of the intermediates: l-hydrocarbyl-5-azaindole-2, 3-dione (A):

wherein, R1 represents CH3, C2H5, n-C3H7, n-C4H9, Ph-CH2, glycosyl protected by acyl and so on.
l-hydrocarbyl-5-azaindole-2, 3-dione (A) was prepared from 5-azaindole by hyarocarbylation at N-1
position, and then oxidation with CrO3 and CH3COOH [11].
(2) Synthesis of the intermediates: l-acetyl-3-hydroxyindole derivatives (B)

wherein, R3' represents H, CI, Br, F, CH3, OCH3, SCH3, Ph and so on.
The product B was prepared from 2-amino-benzoic acid derivatives by substitution with chloroacetic acid,
acylation and cyclization in the presence of acetic anhydride and sodium acetate, and reduction.
(3) Synthesis of me target compounds: 5-azaindirubin derivatives (I)

wherein, R1 represents CH3, C2H5, n-C3H7, n-C4H9, Ph-CH2, glycosyl protected by acyl and so on; R3
represents H, CI, Br, F, CH3, OCH3, SCH3, Ph and so on.

l-hydrocarbyl-5-azaindole-2,3-dione and l-acetyl-3-hydroxyindole or 5-halogen
substituted-l-acetyl-3-hydroxyindole were heated at reflux respectively under N2 in acidic condition, forming
l-hydrocarbyl-5-azaindirubin derivatives (I).
(4) Synthesis of the target compounds: 3'-oximido-5-azaindirubin derivatives

wherein, R1 represents CH3, C2H5, n-C3H7, n-C4H9, Ph-CH2, glycosyl protected by acyl and so on, R3
represents H, CI, Br, F, CH3, OCH3, SCH3, Ph and so on.
(5) Synthesis of the target compounds: 5-azaindirubin-3'-oxime ether, etc.

Wherein, R represents CH3ON, C2H5ON, R1 represents CH3, C2H5, n-C3H7, n-C4H9, Ph-CH2 and so on,
R3 represents H, CI, Br, F and so on.
2. Target compounds of 5-azaisoindigo (General Formula II)

wherein, R1 represents CH3, C2H5, n-C3H7, 11-C4H9, Ph-CH2, glycosyl protected by acyl and so on, R3
represents H, CI, Br, F, OH, OCH3 and so on.
1-hydrocarbyl-5'-substitution-5-azaisoindigo derivatives (II) are prepared by reacting
1-hydrocarbyl-5-azaindole-2, 3-dione (A) with 5-substituted-2-hydroxyindole in alkahne condition.
3. Intermediates and target compounds of 7-azaindirubin (General Formula III)
(1) Synthesis of the intermediates: 1-hydrocarbyl-7-azaindole-2, 3-dione (C)

wherein, R represents CH3, C2H5, n-C3H7, n-C4H9, Ph-CH2, glycosyl protected by acyl and so on.
l-hydrocarbyl-7-azaindole-2, 3-dione (C) was prepared from 7-azaindole by alkylation at N-l position,
and then oxidation with CrO3 and CH3COOH [11].
(2) Synthesis of the target compounds: 7-azaindirubin (III)


wherein, R1 represents CH3, C2H5, n-C3H7, n-C4H9, Ph-CH2, glycosyl protected by acyl and so on, R3
represents H, CI, Br, F, CH3, OCH3, SCH3, Ph and so on.
1-hydrocarby1-7-azaindole-2, 3-dione and 1-acety1-3-hydroxyindole or 5-halogen
substituted-1-acety1-3-hydroxyindole were heated at reflux respectively under N2 in acidic condition, forming
1-hydrocarby1-7-azaindirubin derivatives (III).
(3) Synthesis of the target compounds: 3'-oximido-7-azaindirubin

wherein, R1 represents CH3, C2H5, n-C3H7, n-C4H9, Ph-CH2, glycosyl protected by acyl and so on, R3
represents H, CI, Br, F, CH3, OCH3, SCH3, Ph and so on.
(4) Synthesis of the target compounds: 7-azaindirubin-3'-oxime ether, etc.

wherein, R represents CH3ON, C2H5ON, R1 represents CH3, C2H5, n-C3H7, n-C4H9, Ph-CH2 and so on, R3'
represents H, CI, Br, F and so on.
4. Target compounds of 7-azaisoindigo (Formula IV)

wherein, R1 represents CH3, C2H5, n-C3H7, n-C4H9, Ph-CH2, glycosyl protected by acyl and so on, R3
represents H, CI, Br, F, OH, OCH3 and so on.
1-hydrocarby1-5'-substitution-7-azaisoindigo derivatives (IV) were prepared by reacting
1-hydrocarby1-7-azaindole-2, 3-dione (C) with 5-substituted-2-hydroxy-indole in alkaline condition.
The main advantages of the invention are:
(1) The present invention has completely changed atomic composition of the parental nucleus of indirubin
and isoindigo, thus forming a class of compounds with new structures, and improving the electrical properties
of the original molecules. Based on the property that pyridine is soluble in water and benzene is almost
insoluble in water, the water solubility of the compounds of the present invention has been improved, thus
increasing the bioavailability.
(2) The compounds according to the invention, belonging to cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors, can
induce endogenous cyclin-dependent inhibitors, which in turn inhibit cell growth and proliferation, and
promote apoptosis of tumor cells.
(3) The compounds according to the invention can sensitize the peripheral tissues to insulin, and reduce
insulin resistance through recovering insulin signal transformation.
(4) The compounds according to the invention possess improved physicochemical property and enhanced
cell permeability, and they can readily enter cells, thus improving the pharmacodynamic action.
Examples

The present invention is further illustrated through the following examples. It should be appreciated that
the following examples are provided merely for the purposes of illustration and not intended to limit the scope
of the invention. In examples, the experimental methods usually follow conventional methods, or
recommendations from manufacturers, unless particularly indicated. Unless otherwise indicated, the portion
and percentage are mass portion and weight percentage.
Example 1 Preparation of the compounds
The melting points of 5- or 7-azaindirubin derivatives and 5- or 7-azaisoindigo derivatives, which were
prepared in this example, were measured by Me1-TEMP melting point instrument without calibration. The
mass spectrum (MS) was determined using HP1100LC/MSD mass spectrometer. The thin layer
chromatographic (TLC) plates were made from silica gel GF254 (Qingdao Haiyang Chemical Co., Ltd) and
0.8% CMC-Na solution in distilled water, activated at 100-110 °C for 1 hour, preserved in the dryers, and
developed under ultraviolet light (at 254nm and 365nm). The chromatographic columns were packed with
silica gel (200-300 mesh or 100-200 mesh) (Qingdao Haiyang Chemical Co., Ltd) employing dry method. The
hydrogen spectrum (1H-NMR) was determined using Bruck AV-300 nuclear magnetic resonance apparatus
with TMS as an internal standard. The elemental analysis was performed using Elementar Vario EL m
apparatus.
The reagents were commercially available chemically pure and analytically pure grade products. Unless
otherwise indicated, the reagents were used directly without any treatments.
Example 1-1 Preparation of the intermediates
(1) 1-methy1-5-azaindole-2,3-dione
To a solution of 1-methy1-5-azaindole (2.0 g, 15 mmol) in 70 ml acetic acid, a suspension of 3.2 g of CrO3
in 20 ml water was added. The reaction mixture was stirred for 0.5 h at room temperature, and diluted by water.
The mixture was extracted by trichloromethane for three times, the combined organic phases were washed
with water, dried and evaporated. An orange intermediate (1-methy1-5-azaindole-2,3-dione) (1.5 g, yield: 62%;
mp: 140-142 °C) was obtained.
(2) 2-(N-carboxymethylamino)-5-chlorobenzoic acid
To a solution of 2-amino-5-chlorobenzoic acid (2.0 g, 11.6 mmol) in 15 ml of 2 N Na2CO3, a solution of
chloroacetic acid (0.69 g, 7.3 mmol) in 7.5 ml of 2 N Na2CO3 was added dropwise. After stirred for 20 hours at
80 °C, the reaction mixture was cooled down to room temperature. 50 ml ether and 8 ml of 2 N hydrochloric
acid were added to the mixture. The organic phase was separated, and dried with MgSO4. After concentration,
a light brown solid was obtained. A white solid (2-(N-carboxymethylamino)-5-chlorobenzoic acid) (1.58 g,
yield: 59%; mp: 182-183 °C) was obtained through silica gel column chromatography (ethyl
acetate/methanol, v/v, 1/1).
(3) 1-acety1-5-chloro-3-acetoxyindole
2-(N-carboxymethylamino)-5-chlorobenzoic acid (1.20 g, 5.2 mmol) and anhydrous sodium acetate (0.6
g, 7.3 mmol) were dissolved in 8 ml acetic anhydride. After stirred for 5 hours at 60 °C, the reaction mixture
was cooled down to room temperature, and the sodium acetate was filtered off. The filtrate was concentrated,
and the residue was dissolved in 100 ml ethyl acetate. 100 ml water and 20 ml saturated sodium bicarbonate
were added to the solution, and the organic layer was separated. The aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl
acetate (50 ml x 2). The combined organic phases were washed with saturated sodium bicarbonate (100 ml x 2),
dried, and evaporated, to obtain a white solid (1-acety1-5-chloro-3-acetoxyindole) (0.84 g, yield: 64%).
(4) 1-acety1-5-chloro-3-hydroxyindole
1-acety1-5-chloro-3-acetoxyindole (1.0 g, 3.97 mmol) and sodium sulfite (1.0 g, 7.94 mmol) were mixed
in 20 ml water. After heated for 3 hours at 80 °C, the reaction mixture was cooled down to room temperature,
and then extracted with ethyl acetate (50 ml x 2). The combined organic phases were dried and evaporated to

obtain a solid as white needles (1-acety1-5-chloro-3-hydroxyindole) (0.55 g, yield: 66%; mp: 186-188 °C).
(5) 1-methy1-7-azaindole-2, 3-dione
To a solution of 1-methy1-7-azaindole (2.0 g, 15 mmol) in 70 ml acetic acid, a suspension of 3.2 g of
CrO3 in 20 ml water was added. The reaction mixture was stirred for 0.5 h at room temperature, and diluted by
water. The mixture was extracted with trichloromethane for three times. The combined organic phases were
washed with water, dried and evaporated. An orange intermediate (1-methy1-7-azaindole-2, 3-dione) (1.73 g,
yield: 71.3%; mp: 162-163 °C) was obtained.
(6) 2-(N-carboxymethylamino)-5-bromobenzoic acid
To a solution of 2-amino-5-bromobenzoic acid (2 g, 9 mmol) in 15 ml of 2 N Na2CO3, a solution of
chloroacetic acid (0.69 g, 7.3 mmol) in 7.5 ml of 2 N Na2CO3 was slowly added dropwise. Then, after stirred
for 20 hours at 80 °C, the reaction mixture was cooled down to room temperature. 50 ml of ether and 8 ml of 2
N hydrochloric acid were added to the mixture. The organic phase was separated, and dried with MgSO4. After
evaporation, a light brown solid was obtained. The solid was purified by silica gel column chromatography
(ethyl acetate/methanol, v/v, 1/1) to obtain a white solid (2-(N-carboxymethylamino)-5-bromobenzoic acid)
(1.55 g, yield: 60%; mp: 178-180 °C).
(7) 1-acety1-5-bromo-3-acetoxyindole
2-(N-carboxymethylamino)-5-bromobenzoic acid (0.84 g, 3.4 mmol) and anhydrous sodium acetate (0.6 g,
7.3 mmol) were dissolved in 8 ml acetic anhydride. After stirred for 5 hours at 60 °C, the reaction mixture was
cooled down to room temperature. Sodium acetate was filtered off. The filtrate was evaporated, and the residue
was dissolved in 100 ml ethyl acetate. 100 ml water and 20 ml saturated sodium bicarbonate were added to the
solution, and the organic phase was separated. The aqueous phase was extracted with ethyl acetate (50 ml x 2).
The combined organic phases were washed with saturated sodium bicarbonate (100 ml x 2), dried and
evaporated to obtain a white solid (1-acety1-5-bromo-3-acetoxyindole) (1.3 g, 25.4%).
(8) 1-acety1-5-bromo-3-hydroxyindole
1-acety1-5-bromo-3-acetoxyindole (1.0 g, 3.38 mmol) and sodium sulfite (1.0 g, 7.94 mmol) were mixed
in 20 ml water. After heated for 3 hours at 80 °C, the reaction mixture was cooled down to room temperature,
and men extracted with ethyl acetate (50 ml x 2). The combined organic phases were dried and evaporated to
obtain a solid as white needles (1-acety1-5-bromo-3-hydroxyindole) (0.7 g, yield: 82%; mp: 180-182 °C).
Example 1-2 Preparation of the target compounds
(1) 1-methy1-5-azaindirubin (2)
To 1-methy1-5-azaindole-2, 3-dione (0.2 g, 1.23 mmol), 1-acety1-3-hydroxyindole (0.21 g, 1.2 mmol), 20
ml water and 0.02 g of para-toluenesulfonic acid were added. The reaction mixture was stirred and refluxed
under nitrogen for 1 hour to get a prunosus solution. After cooling down, the mixture was extracted with
trichloromethane, washed wim water, and evaporated to give a prunosus solid. The solid was purified by silica
gel column chromatography (trichloromethane/petroleum ether, v/v, 3/1), and recrystallized from ethyl to
obtain a crystal as red needles (1-methy1-5-azaindirubin (2)) (0.15 g, yield: 44%; mp: 114-116 °C).
ESI-MS: 278.1[M+H]+, Cl6H11N3O2(277.2);
1H NMR (AV-300, CDC13, ppm) δ: 3.48(s, 3H, -CH3), 7.08(m, 1H, 5'-H), 7.09(m, 1H, 6'-H), 7.16(dd, 1H,
J=7.6Hz, 4'-H), 7.76(d, J=7.6Hz, 1H, 7'-H), 8.10 (s, 1H, 4-H), 8.26(dd, J=5.5Hz; 1H. 6-H), 9.10(dd, J=5.5Hz,
1H, 7-H), 10.4(bs, 1H, N-H);
Anal Calcd for C16H11N3O2: C, 69.31 H, 3.97 N, 15.16;
Found: C, 69.15 H, 4.09 N, 15.29.
(2) 1-benzy1-5'-chloro-5-azaindirubin (19)
Using the method of (1), 1-benzy1-5-azaindole-2, 3-dione and 1-acety1-5-chloro-3-hydroxyindole with the
similar molar amount as (1), and 0.02 g of para-toluenesulfonic acid were added to 20 ml water. The reaction

mixture was stirred and refluxed under nitrogen for 1 hour to give a prunosus solution. After cooling down, the
mixture was extracted with trichloromethane, washed with water, and evaporated to get a prunosus solid. The
solid was purified by silica gel column chromatography (trichloromethane/petroleum ether, v/v, 3/1), and
recrystallized from ethyl to obtain a crystal as red needles (1-benzy1-5'-chloro-5-azaindirubin (19)) (0.18 g,
yield: 39 %; mp: 110-112 °C).
ESI-MS: 389[M+H]+, C22H14 Cl N3O2(387.9);
1H NMR(AV-300, CDCl3, ppm) δ: 5.21(s, 2H, N-CH2), 10.44(s, 1H, N-H), 6.91~9.02(m, 11H, Ar-Hs);
Anal Calcd for C22H14 Cl N3O2: C, 68.13 H, 3.64 N, 10.83;
Found: C, 68.42 H, 3.59 N, 10.89.
(3) 1-buty1-5-azaindirubin-3'-oxime (40)
1-buty1-5-azaindirubin (0.4 g, 1.25mmol, prepared by method (1)) was dissolved in 12 ml methanol. 6
ml anhydrous pyridine and hydroxylamine hydrochloride (0.15 g, 2.2 mmol) were added to the solution. The
reaction mixture was refluxed for 1 hour, cooled and concentrated to remove most of the solvent. The residue
was poured into 100 ml broken ice, stirred vigorously, and filtered to get an orange solid. The solid was
purified by silica gel column chromatography (petroleum ether/ethyl acetate, v/v, 3/1), to obtain an orange
crystalline powder (1-buty1-5-azaindirubin-3'-oxime (40)) (0.32 g, yield: 90%; mp: 250-252 °C.
ESI-MS: 335.1[M+H]+, C,9H|8N4O2(334.3);
1H NMR(AV-300, D6-DMSO, ppm) δ: 0.91(t, 3H, -CH3), 1.31(m, 2H, -CH2), 2.28(m, 2H, -CH2), 3.28(m,
2H, N-CH2), 7.10~8.81(m, 7H, Ar-Hs), 11.71(s, 1H, N-H), 13.70(s, 1H, N-OH);
Anal. Calcd. For C19H18N4O2:C, 68.25 H, 5.43 N, 16.76;
Found: C, 68.33 H, 5.56 N, 16.66.
(4) 1-buty1-5-azaindirubin-3'-monooxime O-methyl ether (53)
1-buty1-5-azaindirubin-3'-oxime (1.5 g, 4.5 mmol) was added to 50 ml of 5% KOH in anhydrous ethanol,
slightly heated to dissolve, and filtered. 5 ml CH3I was added dropwise into the filtrate with stirred constantly.
The reaction released heat, forming a dark red precipitate. After stirred for 0.5 h, the mixture was filtered by
pump filter. The precipitate was washed with water to neutral pH, and dried to get a dark red crude product.
The crude product was recrystallized from acetone to obtain a dark red crystal
(1-buty1-5-azaindirubin-3'-monooxime O-methyl ether (53)) (1.20 g, yield: 77%; mp: 209-211 °C).
ESI-MS: 349.1[M+H]+, C20H20N4O(348.2);
1H-NMR(AV-300, D6-DMSO, ppm) δ: 0.98(t, 3H, -CH3), 1.46(m, 2H, -CH2), 2.08(m, 2H, -CH2), 3.86(m,
2H, N-CH2), 4.16(s, 3H, 0-CH3), 7.10~9.19(m, 7H, Ar-Hs), 10.86(bs, 1H, N-H);
Anal. Calcd. For C20H20N4O2: C, 68.95 H, 5.79 N, 16.08
Found: C, 68.81 H, 5.62 N, 15.85.
(5) 1-isopropy1-5-azaisoindigo (73)
1-isopropy1-5-azaindole-2, 3-dione (0.4 g, 2.1 mmol) and 2-hydroxyindole (0.28 g, 2.1 mmol) were added
to 10 ml ethanol. The mixture was adjusted to pH 9 with 1 mol/L sodium hydroxide, and reacted for 2 hours at
70 °C to get a brown solid. After cooling down, the mixture was filtered by pump filter. The solid was washed
with water and ethanol, and dried in vacuum to obtain a reddish brown solid (1-isopropy1-5-azaisoindigo (73))
(0.44 g, yield: 66%; mp: 128-130 °C).
ESI-MS: 306.1[M+H]+, 304.2[M-H], C18H15N3O2(305.3);
1H NMR(AV-300, D6-DMSO, ppm) δ: 1.52(d, 6H, -CH(CH3)2), 4.81(m, 1H, -CH(CH3)2), 6.86-9.32(m,
7H, Ar-Hs), 10.96(bs, 1H, N-H);
Anal. Calcd. For C,8H15N3O2: C, 70.81 H, 4.95 N, 13.76
Found: C, 70.62 H,5.10 N, 13.58.
(6) 1-methy1-7-azaindirubin (93)

To 1-methy1-7-azaindole-2, 3-dione (0.2 g, 1.23 mmol), 1-acety1-3-hydroxyindole (0.21 g, 1.2 mmol), 20
ml water and 0.02 g of para-toluenesulfonic acid were added. The reaction mixture was stirred and refluxed
under nitrogen for 1 hour to get a prunosus solution. After cooling down, the mixture was extracted with
trichloromethane, washed with water, and evaporated to get a prunosus solid. The solid was purified by silica
gel column chromatography (trichloromethane/petroleum ether, v/v, 3/1), and further recrystallized from ethyl
acetate to obtain a crystal as red needles (1-methy1-7-azaindirubin (93)) (0.14 g, yield: 41.1%; mp: 116-118
°C).
ESI-MS: 278.1[M+H]+, C,6H11N3O2(277.2);
'H NMR (AV-300, CDC13, ppm) δ: 3.59(s, 3H, -CH3), 7.08(m, 1H, 5'-H), 7.09(m, 1H, 6'-H), 7.16(dd, 1H,
J=7.6Hz, 4-H), 7.58(m, 1H, 5-H), 7.76(d, J=7.6Hz, 1H, 7'-H), 8.21(dd, J=5.5Hz, 1H, 4-H), 9.13(dd, J=5.5Hz,
1H, 6-H), 10.4(bs, 1H,N-H);
Anal Calcd for C16H11N3O2: C, 69.31 H, 3.97 N, 15.16;
Found: C, 69.05 H,4.18 N, 15.34.
(7) 1-benzy1-5'-bromo-7-azaindirubin (109)
Using the method of (6), 1-benzy1-7-azaindole-2, 3-dione and 1-acety1-5-bromo-3-hydroxyindole with the
similar molar amount as (6), and 0.02 g of para-toluenesulfonic acid were added to 20 ml water. The reaction
mixture was stirred and refluxed under nitrogen for 1 hour to get a prunosus solution. After cooling down, the
mixture was extracted with trichloromethane, washed with water, and evaporated to get a prunosus solid. The
solid was purified by silica gel column chromatography (trichloromethane/petroleum ether, v/v, 3/1), and
recrystallized from ethyl acetate to obtain a crystal as red needles (1-benzy1-5'-bromo-7-azaindirubin (109))
(0.14 g, yield: 27%; mp: 112-114 °C).
ESI-MS: 433[M+H]+, C22H14 Br N3O2(432.2);
'H NMR(AV-300, CDCl3, ppm) δ: 5.24(s, 2H, N-CH2), 10.44(s, 1H, N-H), 6.91~9.0(m, 11H, Ar-Hs);
Anal Calcd for C22H14 Br N3O2: C, 61.13 H, 3.26 N,9.72;
Found: C, 60.72 H.3.57 N, 9.38.
(8) 1-buty1-7-azaindirubin-3'-oxirne (131)
1-buty1-7-azaindirubin (0.4 g, 1.25mmol, prepared by method (6)) was dissolved in 12 ml methanol. 6 ml
anhydrous pyridine and (0.15 g, 2.2 mmol) hydroxylamine hydrochloride were added to the solution. The
reaction mixture was heated reflux for 1 hour, then cooled down and concentrated to remove most of the
solvent. The residue was poured into 100 ml broken ice, stirred vigorously, and filtered to get an orange solid.
The solid was purified by silica gel column chromatography (petroleum ether/ethyl acetate, v/v, 3/1), to obtain
an orange solid (1-buty1-7-azaindirubin-3'-oxime (131)) (0.31 g, yield: 87.7%; mp: 254-256 °C).
ESI-MS: 335.1[M+H]+, C19H18N4O2(334.3);
1H NMR(AV-300, D6-DMSO, ppm) δ: 0.92(t, 3H, -CH3), 1.31(m, 2H, -CH2), 2.28(m, 2H, -CH2), 3.32(m,
2H, N-CH2), 7.03~8.81(m, 7H, Ar-Hs), 11.7(s, 1H, N-H), 13.7(s, 1H, N-OH);
Anal. Calcd. For Cl9Hl8N4O2: C, 68.25 H, 5.43 N, 16.76;
Found: C, 68.09 H, 5.60 N, 16.58.
(9) 1-buty1-7-azaindirubin-3'-monooxime O-methyl ether (144)
1-buty1-7-azaindirubin-3'-oxime (1.5 g, 4.5 mmol) was added to 50 ml of 5% KOH in anhydrous ethanol,
slightly heated to dissolve, and filtered. 5 ml CH3I was added dropwise into the filtrate with stirring constantly.
The reaction released heat, forming a dark red precipitation. After stirred for 0.5 h, the mixture was filtered by
pump filter. The precipitate was washed with water to neutral pH, and dried to get a dark red crude product.
The crude product was recrystallized from acetone to obtain a dark red crystal
(1-buty1-7-azaindirubin-3'-monooxime O-methyl ether (144)) (1.26 g, yield 80.5%; mp: 212-214 °C).
ESI-MS: 349.1[M+H]+, C20H20N4O(348.2);
'H-NMR(AV-300, D6-DMSO, ppm) 8: 0.98(t, 3H, -CH3), 1.46(m, 2H, -CH2), 2.08(m, 2H, -CH2), 3.88(m,

2H, N-CH2), 4.16(s, 3H, O-CH3), 7.06~9.19(m, 7H, Ar-Hs), 10.86(bs, 1H, N-H);
Anal. Calcd. For C20H20N4O2: C, 68.95 H,5.79 N, 16.08
Found: C, 68.79 H,5.59 N, 15.88.
(10) 1-isopropy1-7-azaisoindigo (164)
1-isopropy1-7-azaindole-2, 3-dione (0.4 g, 2.1 mmol) and 2-hydroxyindole (0.28 g, 2.1 mmol) were added
to 10 ml ethanol. The mixture was adjusted to pH 9 with 1 mol/L sodium hydroxide, and reacted for 2 hours at
70 °C to get a brown solid. After cooling down, the mixture was filtered by pump filter. The solid was washed
with water and ethanol, and dried in vacuum to obtain a reddish brown solid (1-isopropy1-7-azaisoindigo (164))
(0.42 g, yield: 63.2%; mp: 132-134 °C).
ESI-MS: 306.1[M+H]+, 304.2[M-H]\ C18H15N3O2(305.3);
1H NMR(AV-300, D6-DMSO, ppm) δ: 1.51(d, 6H, -CH(CH3)2), 4.78(m, 1H, -CH(CH3)2), 6.86-9.3(m, 7H,
Ar-Hs), 10.99(bs, 1H, N-H);
Anal. Calcd. For Cl8Hl5N3O2: C, 70.81 H,4.95 N, 13.76
Found: C, 70.53 H,5.04 N, 13.52.
59 5-azaindirubin compounds (I) were prepared according to the methods for preparing 5-azaindirubin
derivatives such as compound Nos. 2, 19, 40 and 53. Their structures are shown in Table 1. The structures of
all the new compounds were confirmed by mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), hydrogen spectrum ('H-NMR) and
elemental analysis, and a portion of them were further confirmed by infrared spectrum (IR), ultraviolet
spectrum (UV/VIS).

Wherein, R2-R'4, R1, R2, R4 and R5 represent H, and the other are shown in table 1.




compounds were confirmed by infrared spectrum (IR), ultraviolet spectrum (UV/VIS), mass spectrometry
(ESI-MS), hydrogen spectrum (1H-NMR) and elemental analysis.

Wherein, R2 ~R4, R , R4 and R represent H, and the other are shown in table 2.


elemental analysis, and a portion of them were further confirmed by infrared spectrum (IR), ultraviolet
spectrum (UV/VIS).

Wherein, R2 , R4 , R1' , R2' , R4' and R5' represent H, and the other are shown in table 3.



30 5-azaisoindigo compounds (IV) were prepared according to the methods for preparing
1-isopropy1-7-azaisoindigo (164). Their structures are shown in Table 4. The structures of all the new
compounds were confirmed by infrared spectrum (IR), ultraviolet spectrum (UV/VIS), mass spectrometry
(ESI-MS), hydrogen spectrum ( 1H-NMR) and elemental analysis.

Wherein, R2, R4, R2, R4 and R represent H, and the other are shown in table 4.



Example 2 Tests of the antitumor activities (1)
1. Materials and instruments
(i) Cell lines: androgen-independent human prostate cancer cell lines DU145 were purchased from
American Type Culture Collection.
(ii) Reagents: RPMI Medium 1640 (GIBCOBRL, Inc. U.S.A.), calf serum (Hangzhou Sijiqing Biological
Engineering Materials Co., Ltd.), MTT (Sigma), HEPES (Shanghai Livzon Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.),
1-glutamine (imported from Japan), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO, analytical reagent);
Measured samples: a portion of the 5-azaindirubin and 5-azaisoindigo derivatives (20 new compounds,
in-house), a portion of the 7-azaindirubin and 7-azaisoindigo derivatives (38 new compounds, in-house);
Reference substances: 1-ethy1-indirubin (90) and 1-ethy1-indirubin-3'-oxime (91), which were prepared in
our lab and the structure of which were identified; and al1-trans retinoic acid.
(iii) Preparation of reagents
a, Cell culture medium: 10.4 g of 1640 medium powder, 2.1 g of sodium bicarbonate, 0.3 g of glutamine,
5.95 g of HEPES, 100,000 units of penicillin and 100,000 units of streptomycin were added to 1000 ml double
distilled water. The mixture was sterilized by filtration using millipore filter, and aliquots were stored at -20 °C.
The inactivated calf serum was added to the medium prior to use.
b, Calf serum: It was inactivated for 30 minutes in 56°C water bath, and the aliquots were stored at -20
°C;
c, MTT: It was diluted to 5 mg/ml with PBS, stored at 4 °C and kept away from light. It was used within
two weeks;

d, PBS: 8.00 g of sodium chloride, 0.20 g of potassium chloride, 3.4 g disodium phosphate dodecahydrate
and 0.20 g of potassium phosphate dibasic were fully dissolved in double distilled water at 37 °C, diluted to
1000 ml, and aliquots were stored at 4 °C;
e, 58 measured samples, the reference substances (90 and 91) and al1-trans retinoic acid were formulated
into solutions in DMSO, and stored at -20 °C.
(iv) Main equipments:
CO2 incubator (GB16, Heraeus company, German); clean bench (SW-CJ-1F, Suzhou Antai Air Tech Co.,
Ltd.); horizontal centrifuge (LXJ-II, Shanghai Third Medical Instruments Factory); enzyme-linked immune
detector (BIO RAD Model 550, USA); inverted biological microscope (XSZ-D2, Chongqing Optical
Instrument Factory); rapid mixer (SK-1 type, Changzhou Guohua Electric Appliance Co., Ltd.); electrical
heating water thermostat system (DK-8D, Shanghai Medical Constant Temperature Equipment Factory); flow
cytometry (FACSCalibur, American BD Company); plate oscillator (752-A, Shanghai Medical Analysis
Instrument Factory); electronic balance (BS110S, Sartorius Company, German).
2. Methods
(i) Cell culture
DU145 cells were inoculated in RPMI1640 medium containing 10% calf serum, incubated at 37 °C, 5%
CO2 in CO2 incubator, and passaged every 2-3 days. In this experiment, cells were grown in logarithmic
growth phase.
(ii) Grouping
In the experiment, the cells at logarithmic growth phase were formulated into suspension, and the
viability by trypan blue staining was more than 98%. The suspension was divided into several groups: 1 as
blank control group (cell suspension); and 2 as experimental groups (cell suspension plus drugs).
(iii) Determination of IC50 values by MTT (the 50% inhibitory concentration)
The drugs were formulated into a stock solution in DMSO, and the concentration of the stock solution
was 20 mmol (used within 4 hours). In the experiment, the work solution of the drugs was diluted with
RPMI1640 medium containing 10% calf serum under aseptic condition, to a final concentration of 80 µM.
The drug concentrations were increased by 2 times (1.25-20 µM).
The DU145 cell in logarithmic growth phase were selected, centrifuged, counted, and formulated into a
cell suspension (2.5 x 10 /ml) with RPMI1640 medium containing 10% calf serum. The cell suspension were
inoculated into 96-well plates at a density of 5000 cells /200 µl per well, incubated for 24 hours at 37 °C, 5%
CO2. According to the above concentration of the drug, the cells were inoculated to 6 groups (including one
control group), with 8 wells per group. After incubating for 72 hours, the viability of cells was measured by
MTT assay. The absorbance value (A) was measured with detection wavelength at 540 nm, reference
wavelength at 630 nm. The inhibitory rate (I) was calculated by the following equation, where T was the
absorbance value of the experimental groups, and C was the absorbance value of the blank control group:
I = (1-T/C) x 100%
The regression equation was calculated by the concentration-inhibitory rate curve, to obtain 50% and 90%
inhibition concentration (IC50 and IC90, µM). The results are shown in Table 5, Table 6 and Figure 2.
Table 5 IC50 and IC90 of 5-azaindirubin and 5-azaisoindigo derivatives for inhibiting DU145 tumor cells



3. Discussion
(i) From the MTT assay, it is readily found that most of 5- or 7-azaindirubin derivatives and 5- or
7-azaisoindigo derivatives have strong antitumor activity, and the growth inhibitory effects on tumor cells of
them are much stronger than that of al1-trans retinoic acid, a differentiation inducer. More importandy, most of
5- or 7-azaindirubin derivatives and 5- or 7-azaisoindigo derivatives have good inhibitory effects on
androgen-independent human prostate cancer cells DU145 which are clinically refractory;
(ii) The IC50 of many 5- or 7-azaindirubin derivatives and 5- or 7-azaisoindigo derivatives are similar to

or less than that of the reference substances (90 and 91). Compound 91 is a known CDKs inhibitor'(13). The
structures of 38, 129 are quite similar to that of 91, and the difference between them merely involves the atom
at 5 or 7-position. It is also suggested that the newly synthesized compounds of the present invention may have
similar mechanisms on inhibiting tumor cells growth;
(iii) 3'-oximated and 5'-halogenated 5- or 7-azaindirubin derivatives demonstrate relatively significant
growth inhibitory effects on tumor cells, particularly compounds 25, 30, 116, 121 and 124, and compounds
30,121 and 124 still have good safety profile.
Example 3 Tests of the antineoplasmic activities (2)
1. Tumor cells: human hepatoma cell lines 7701 QGY and HepG-2, human lung adenocarcinoma cell line
A549, human chronic myelocytic leukemia cell line K562, human leukemia cell line CEM and mouse
melanoma cell line KIII.
2. Using the methods described in example 2, the biological activity of a portion of newly synthesized 5-
or 7-azaindirubin derivatives and 5- or 7-azaisoindigo derivatives (20 compounds) for inhibiting various tumor
cells growth were determined. The 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50, uM) are shown in Table 7.
Table 7 IC50 (uM) of 5- or 7-azaindirubin and 5- or 7-azaisoindigo derivatives for inhibiting various tumor

The results indicate that 5- or 7-azaindirubin derivatives and 5- or 7-azaisoindigo derivatives have the
biological activity of inhibiting various tumor cells growth.
Example 4 Inhibitory effects on CDKs
Reagents: The tested compounds were the same as example 2. Unless otherwise indicated, other chemical
reagents were purchased from Sigma Chemical Company (USA). Polyacrylamide gel used in protein
electrophoresis, SDS, electrophoresis buffer, transfer buffer protein, nitrocellulose membrane were purchased
from American Bio-Rad Life Science Company. Western blotting detection kits and films were purchased from

American GE Company. Phospho-ODK2Thr 160 antibody, endogenous cyclin-dependent inhibitor p27 antibody,
CyclinDl and p-Actin antibody were purchased from American Cell Signaling Inc., DAKO and Santa Cruz
Biochemical Technology Company.
Tumor cells and methods for cell culture were the same as example 2.
Phospho-Cdc2, p27, and Cyclin D1 were detected by Western blot: The human prostate cancer cell lines
DU145 at logarithmic growth phase were treated with compounds No.124 and No.126 (concentration is
shown in Figure 3) for 24 hours. The cells were harvested and washed. Total cellular proteins were extracted
and quantified as described previously(14). 50 ug of protein was separated on a SDS-PAGE, electro-transferred
to nitrocellulose filters. Western blot were performed using specific antibothes against Phospho-CDK2,
endogenous cyclin-dependent inhibitor p27 and CyclinDl, with P-Actin antibody as an internal standard. The
result was recorded by ECL films.
Results and discussion:
It is reported that indirubin derivatives can inhibit CDKs of cancer cells. Example 2 and example 3 have
demonstrated that 5- or 7-azaindirubin derivatives and 5- or 7-azaisoindigo derivatives of the invention have
relatively strong growth inhibitory effects on tumor cells. In order to further elucidate whether these
compounds inhibit cell growth by regulating the activity of cyclin-dependent kinases, the effects of the
representative compounds in the present invention, No. 124 and No. 126, on the activity of Cdc2 and p27 and
the protein expression of cyclin Dl were investigated by Western blot, using specific antibothes against Cdc2
phosphorylation protein and the antibothes against other important proteins which regulate the cell cycle, such
as p27 and cyclin Dl. As shown in Figure 3, after treated with compound 124 and 126 for 24 hours, the level
of CDK2 activity (phosphorylation) in human prostate cancer cell lines DU145 decreased in a dose-dependent
manner. At the same time, the protein expression of cyclin Dl was significantly decreased. In contrast, under
the same experimental conditions, the expression of endogenous cyclin-dependent inhibitor p27 was
significantly increased. The changes of the signal proteins inhibited the cell growth. The induction of 5- or
7-azaindirubin derivatives and 5- or 7-azaisoindigo derivatives on the expression of p27 may result from the
activation of AhR-receptor pathway [l5]
Example 5 Stuthes on solid dispersion preparation
Example 5-1
The compound No. 110 in example 1-2 5 mg
Polyethylene glycol 400 50 mg
Process: To polyemylene glycol 400 melted at 50 oC, the compound No. 110 in example 1-2 was added.
The mixture was mixed homogeneously, and cured by ice bag quenching while stirring. After dried in the
desiccator for 24 h, the mixture was made into dripping pills or capsules according to routine method.
Example 5-2
The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 5 mg
Polyethylene glycol 6000 50 mg
Lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (10:1) 1 g
Process: The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 was dissolved in q.s. alkaline ethanol, and then
polyethylene glycol 6000 was added. The mixture was heated at 50 oC to molten and mixed homogeneously,
then the excipients (lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (10:1)) were added, and stirred to half-dried powder.
After dried in 60 °C oven for 24 h, the mixture was made into tablets or capsules according to routine method.
Example 5-3
The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 5 mg
Polyvinyl pyrrolidone K-25 50 mg
Lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (10:1) 1 g

Process: The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 was added to q.s. alkaline ethanol, and stirred to dissolve
completely. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone K25 was added and stirred to dissolve. The excipients (lactose -
microcrystalline cellulose (10:1)) were added, stirred homogeneously. After dried in 60 °C oven for 24 h, the
mixture was made into tablets or capsules according to routine method.
Example 5-4
The compound No. 31 in example 1-2 5 mg
Polyoxyethylene (35) castor oil 350 mg
Lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (10:1) 1 g
Process: The compound No. 31 in example 1-2 was dissolved in q.s. trichlormethane. Polyoxyethylene
(35) castor oil was added and stirred to dissolve. The excipients (lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (10:1))
were added and stirred homogeneously. The mixture was heated at 80 °C using water bath to remove
trichlormethane in a fume hood. After dried in 60 °C oven for 24 h, the mixture was made into tablets or
capsules according to routine method.
Example 5-5
The compound No. 116 in example 1-2 5 mg
Poloxamer 188 100 mg
microcrystalline Cellulose 1 g
Process: The compound No. 116 in example 1-2 was dissolved in q.s. alkaline ethanol. Poloxamer 188
was added and stirred to dissolve. The excipient (microcrystalline cellulose) was added and stirred
homogeneously. After dried in 60 °C oven for 24 h, the mixture was made into tablets or capsules according to
routine method.
Example 5-6
The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 5 mg
Poloxamer 188 100 mg
Polyethylene glycol 6000 50 mg
Lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (10:1) 1 g
Process: The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 was dissolved in q.s. alkaline ethanol. Poloxamer 188 and
polyethylene glycol 6000 were added and stirred to dissolve. The excipients (lactose - microcrystalline
cellulose (10:1)) were added and stirred homogeneously. After dried in 60 °C oven for 24 h, the mixture was
made into tablets or capsules according to routine method.
Example 5-7
The compound No. 119 in example 1-2 5 mg
Polyvinyl pyrrolidone K25 50 mg
Poloxamer 188 50 mg
Polyethylene glycol 6000 50'mg
Lactose 1 g
Process: The compound No. 119 in example 1-2 was dissolved in q.s. alkaline ethanol. Poloxamer 188,
polyethylene glycol 6000 and polyvinyl pyrrolidone K25 were added and stirred to dissolve. The excipient
(lactose) was added and stirred homogeneously. After dried in 60 °C oven for 24 h, the mixture was made into
tablets or capsules according to routine method.
Example 5-8
The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 5 mg
Polyvinyl pyrrolidone K25 50 mg
Poloxamer 188 100 mg
Polyethylene glycol 6000 100 mg

Lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (10:1) 1 g
Process: The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 was dissolved in q.s. alkaline ethanol. Poloxamer 188,
polyethylene glycol 6000 and polyvinyl pyrrolidone K25 were added and stirred to dissolve. The excipients
(lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (10:1)) were added and stirred homogeneously. After dried in 60 °C oven
for 24 h, the mixture was made into tablets or capsules according to routine method.
Example 5-9
The compound No. 29 in example 1-2 5 mg
Polyoxyethylene (40) castor oil 750 mg
Polyethylene glycol 4000 50 mg
Process: The compound No. 29 in example 1-2 was dissolved in polyoxyethylene (40) castor oil/ethanol
solution. Polyethylene glycol 4000 was added. The mixture was stirred to dissolve at 50 °C, and cured by ice
bag quenching after the solvent was removed. After dried in 60 °C oven for 24 h, the solid was made into
tablets or capsules according to routine method.
Example 5-10
The compound No. 121 in example 1-2 5 mg
Polyoxyethylene (40) hydrogenated castor oil 350 mg
Polyvinyl pyrrolidone K25 50 mg
Lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (7:3) 1 g
Process: The compound No. 121 in example 1-2 was dissolved in polyoxyethylene (40) hydrogenated
castor oil/ethanol solution. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone K25 was added and stirred to dissolve. The excipients
(lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (7:3)) were added and stirred homogeneously. After freeze-dried at -50 °C
for 24 h, the mixture was made into tablets or granules according to routine method.
Example 5-11
The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 5 mg
Polyoxyethylene (40) castor oil 350 mg
Polyvinyl pyrrolidone K25 50 mg
Sodium dodecyl sulfate 10 mg
Lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (10:1) 1 g
Process: Polyoxyethylene (40) castor oil and sodium dodecyl sulfate were dissolved in q.s. ethanol. After
the two substances completely dissolved, the compound No. 18 in example 1-2 was added and stirred to
dissolve completely. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone K25 was then added and stirred to dissolve. The excipients (lactose
- microcrystalline cellulose (10:1)) were added and stirred homogeneously. After dried in 60 °C oven for 24 h,
the mixture was made into dripping pills according to routine method.
Example 5-12
The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 5 mg
Polyoxyediylene (40) castor oil 350 mg
Polyvinyl pyrrolidone K17 50 mg
Lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (10:1) 1 g
Process: The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 was dissolved in polyoxyethylene (40) castor oil/ethanol
solution. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone K17 was added and stirred to dissolve. The excipients (lactose -
microcrystalline cellulose (10:1)) were men added and stirred homogeneously. After dried in 60 °C oven for 24
h, the solid was made into tablets or capsules according to routine method.
Example 5-13
The compound No. 34 in example 1-2 5 mg
Vitamin E polyethylene glycol succinate 350 mg

Polyvinyl pyrrolidone K90 50 mg
Lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (5:5) 1g
Process: The compound No. 34 in example 1-2 was dissolved in vitamin E polyethylene glycol
succinate/ethanol solution. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone K90 was added and stirred to dissolve. The excipients
(lactose - microcrystalline cellulose (5:5)) were then added and stirred homogeneously. After dried in 60 °C
oven for 24 h, the solid was made into tablets or capsules according to routine method.
Example 6 Investigation on the dissolution of a portion of solid dispersion preparations
Instruments: RCZ-5A capacity medicament dissolve and infiltrate apparatus is made by Tianjin
University Precision Instruments Factory. UV1900 UV-Vis spectrophotometer is made by Shanghai Yayan
Electronic Science And Technology Co., Ltd.
Dissolution determination methods: According to the third method of XC dissolution assay stated in the
appendix of Chinese Pharmacopeia (Edition 2005), the rotation speed was 100 r/min, the temperature was
37+0.5 °C, and the dissolution medium was 100 ml of 1% sodium dodecyl sulfate solution degassed
ultrasonically. A specimen was withdrawn at 45 minute and immediately filtered through a 0.8 µm water
membrane. The filtrate was quantitatively diluted. The absorbance was measured by UV1900, and the
dissolution percentage was calculated.
Results and discussion:
The dissolution rates of a portion of solid dispersions in the above examples were investigated. The
results are shown in table 8.
i i 1
As shown in the above table, the solid dispersion preparations, which are made from the compounds of
the present invention, overcomes the shortcomings of these compounds, such as poor hydrophilicity and being
difficult to make into appropriate preparations. Since the dissolution of the compound has been significandy
improved, the preparations with practical values could be achieved. The solubilization effect of the solid
dispersion preparations using combined carriers is better than that of the solid dispersion preparations using
single carrier, because of synergistic effects of more than one carriers. The dissolution of the corresponding
dispersion is much better.
Example 7 Investigation on injections
Example 7-1
The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 10 mg
Medium chain triglyceride 400 mg
Lecithin 200 mg
Glycerine 225 mg
Poloxamer 188 200 mg
Process: The following operations were performed in a laminar flow bacteria free room.
Oil phase: The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 was added to dimethyl sulfoxide and heated
hypothermally to dissolve. Medium chain triglyceride and lecithin were added. The mixture was heated

hypothermally while stirred and mixed homogeneously;
Water phase: Glycerine and poloxamer 188 were added to q.s. injection water and heated. While stirring
vigorously, me oil phase was added to the oil phase slowly, and the mixture was stirred vigorously for another
3 minutes. The organic solvent was removed with a rotary evaporator under low temperature.
The prepared emulsion was sterilized through filtration, injected into xi-lin bottles for freeze-drying in a
laminar flow bacteria free room. The emulsion was freeze-dried and sealed using a stopper and aluminum
cover.
Example 7-2
The compound No. 25 in example 1-2 10 mg
Glyceryl monooleate 500 mg
Phospholipid 300 mg
Glycerine 225 mg
Poloxamer 188 200 mg
Process: The following operations were completed in a laminar flow bacteria free room.
Oil phase: The compound No. 25 in example 1-2 was added to dimethyl sulfoxide and heated
hypothermally to dissolve. Glyceryl monooleate was added and heated to dissolve. Then phospholipid was
added, and heated hypothermally to mix homogeneously;
Water phase: Glycerine and poloxamer 188 were added to q.s. injection water and heated. While stirring
vigorously, the oil phase was added to the oil phase slowly, and the mixture was stirred vigorously for another
3 minutes. The organic solvent was removed with a rotary evaporator under low temperature.
The prepared emulsion was sterilized through filtration, injected into xi-lin bottles for freeze-drying in a
laminar flow bacteria free room. The emulsion was freeze-dried and sealed using a stopper and aluminum
cover.
Example 7-3
The compound No. 34 in example 1-2 16 mg
20% human albumin 1 ml
Process: The following operations were completed in a laminar flow bacteria free room.
Oil phase: The compound No. 34 in example 1-2 was added to tetrahydrofuran and dichlormethane mixed
solution, and heated hypothermally to dissolve.
Water phase: The human albumin solution was added to the oil phase. The mixture was mixed by
ultrasound for 1 min. The organic solvent was removed with a rotary evaporator under low temperature.
The prepared emulsion was sterilized through filtration, injected into xi-lin bottles for freeze-drying in a
laminar flow bacteria free room. The emulsion was freeze-dried and sealed using a stopper and aluminum
cover.
Example 7-4
The compound No. 122 in example 1-2 10 mg
Polyethylene glycol 400 100 mg
Lecithin 50 mg
Hydroxypropy1-P-cyclodextrin 200 mg
Process: The following operations were completed in a laminar flow bacteria free room.
Oil phase: The compound No. 122 in example 1-2 was dissolved in alkaline ethanol. Lecithin and
polyethylene glycol 400 were added and stirred to dissolve.
Water phase: Hydroxypropy1-P-cyclodextrin was dissolved in 70% edianol. The water phase was added to
the oil phase, and men q.s. injection water was added and mixed homogeneously. The organic solvent was
removed with a rotary evaporator under low temperature.

The prepared emulsion was sterilized through filtration, injected into xi-lin bottles for freeze-drying in a
laminar flow bacteria free room. The emulsion was freeze-dried and sealed using a stopper and aluminum
cover.
Example 7-5
The compound No. 110 in example 1-2 10 mg
Poloxamer 188 200 mg
Lecithin 30 mg
Hydroxypropy1-P-cyclodextrin 300 mg
0.9% sodium chloride solution 10 ml
Process: The following operations were completed in a laminar flow bacteria free room.
The compound No. 110 in example 1-2 was dissolved in alkaline ethanol. Poloxamer 188 was added. The
mixture was heated with stirring to dissolve, and then cooled down. 0.9% sodium chloride solution and q.s.
ethanol were added, and then lecithin was added and mixed homogeneously. Hydroxypropy1-P-cyclodextrin
was added. The mixture was mixed homogeneously by ultrasound for 1 min. The organic solvent was removed
with a rotary evaporator under low temperature.
The prepared emulsion was sterilized through filtration, injected into xi-lin bottles for freeze-drying in a
laminar flow bacteria free room. The emulsion was freeze-dried and sealed using a stopper and aluminum
cover.
Example 7-6
The compound No. 30 in example 1-2 10 mg
Poloxamer 188 200 mg
Soybean phospholipid 20 mg
Hydroxypropy1-β-cyclodextrin 400 mg
Process: The following operations were completed in a laminar flow bacteria free room.
The compound No. 30 in example 1-2 was dissolved in alkaline ethanol. Soybean phospholipid and
poloxamer 188 were added. Hydroxypropy1-β-cyclodextrin was added. Injection water and q.s. ethanol were
added. The organic solvent was removed with a rotary evaporator under low temperature.
The prepared emulsion was sterilized through filtration, injected into xi-lin bottles for freeze-drying in a
laminar flow bacteria free room. The emulsion was freeze-dried and sealed using a stopper and aluminum
cover.
Example 7-7
The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 10 mg
Polyethylene glycol monolaurate 200 mg
Lecithin 20 mg
Hydroxypropy1-β-cyclodextrin 200 mg
Process: The following operations were completed in a laminar flow bacteria free room.
Oil phase: The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 was dissolved in alkaline ethanol. Lecithin and
polyethylene glycol monolaurate were added. The mixture was stirred to dissolve completely.
Water phase: Hydroxypropy1-p-cyclodextrin was dissolved in 70% ethanol. The water phase was added to
the oil phase, and mixed. The organic solvent was removed with a rotary evaporator under low temperature.
The prepared emulsion was sterilized through filtration, injected into xi-lin bottles for freeze-drying in a
laminar flow bacteria free room. The emulsion was freeze-dried and sealed using a stopper and aluminum
cover.
Example 7-8
The compound No. 19 in example 1-2 10 mg

Polyoxyethylene (40) castor oil 100 mg
Lecithin 50 mg
Hydroxypropy1-β-cyclodextrin 200 mg
Process: The following operations were completed in a laminar flow bacteria free room.
Oil phase: The compound No. 19 in example 1-2 was dissolved in alkaline ethanol. Lecithin and
polyoxyemylene (40) castor oil were added. The mixture was stirred to dissolve.
Water phase: Hydroxypropy1-β-cyclodextrin was dissolved in 70% ethanol. The water phase was added to
the oil phase, and q.s. injection water was added and mixed homogeneously. The organic solvent was removed
with a rotary evaporator under low temperature.
The prepared emulsion was sterilized through filtration, injected into xi-lin bottles for freeze-drying in a
laminar flow bacteria free room. The emulsion was freeze-dried and sealed using a stopper and aluminum
cover.
Example 7-9
The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 20 mg
20% human albumin 5 ml
Process: The following operations were completed in a laminar flow bacteria free room.
Oil phase: The compound No. 18 in example 1-2 was dissolved in tetrahydrofuran and trichloroethylene
mixed solution by ultrasound.
Water phase: Human albumin was dissolved in q.s. 0.1 mol/L hydrochloric acid solution. The mixture
was added to the oil phase while stirring vigorously, and stirred vigorously for another 5 min. The mixture was
homogenized (600 bar) and cooled by water. The operation was repeated for six times. The organic solvent
was removed with a rotary evaporator under low temperature.
The prepared emulsion was sterilized through filtration, injected into xi-lin bottles for freeze-drying in a
laminar flow bacteria free room. The emulsion was freeze-dried and sealed using a stopper and aluminum
cover.
Example 7-10
The compound No. 120 in example 1-2 10 mg
Medium chain triglyceride 600 mg
Vitamin E polyethylene glycol succinate 200 mg
Lecithin 100 mg
Poloxamer 188 200 mg
Glycerine 225 mg
Process: The following operations were completed in a laminar flow bacteria free room.
Oil phase: The compound No. 120 in example 1-2 was added to ethanol. Vitamin E polyethylene glycol
succinate, medium chain triglyceride and poloxamer 188 were added and heated to dissolve.
Water phase: 8 ml of 2.25% glycerine solution was added to the oil phase and stirred. Lecithin was added.
The mixture was mixed by ultrasound for 10 min. The organic solvent was removed with a rotary evaporator
under low temperature.
The prepared emulsion was sterilized through filtration, injected into xi-lin bottles for freeze-drying in a
laminar flow bacteria free room. The emulsion was freeze-dried and sealed using a stopper and aluminum
cover.
Example 8 Solubility assay
The structure of compound 129 is quite similar to that of compound 91. The difference between them
merely involves me atom at 7-position (shown as the following figure). The solubility assay using them can
indicate the change of solubility of 7-azaindirubin relative to indirubin.


Testing methods: 5 mg of the compound no. 129 and 91 were respectively added into 2 ml solvent at
room temperature (20 °C), and stirred to dissolve. The results are shown in table 9.

As shown in the above table, the water solubility of 7-azaindirubin derivatives (129) is increased, while
the lipid solubility is decreased. Generally, the water solubility and lipid solubility of indirubin are not good.
The lipid solubility of modified indirubin derivatives is increased while the water solubility is decreased, as
demonstrated by compound no. 91. The changes in solubility reflect the necessity of stuthes on 7-azaindirubin
derivatives, and will facilitate the absorption of medicine in vivo and the selection of dosage form, etc .
All literatures mentioned in the present application are incorporated by reference herein, as though
individually incorporated by reference. Additionally, it should be understood that after reading the description
above, many variations and modifications may be made by the skilled in the art, and these equivalents also fall
within the scope as defined by the appended claims.
References
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4. Gray N, Detivand L, Meijer L, et al., ATP-site directed inhibitors of cyclin-dependent kinases, Curr Med
Chem, 1999, 6: 859-875.
5. Malumbres M, et al., Targeting cell cycle kinases for cancer therapy, Curr Med Chem, 2007: 14(9): 969-85.

6. Rudolph J., Inhibiting transient protein-protein interactions: lessons from the Cdc25 protein tyrosine
phosphatases, Nat Rev Cancer, 2007,7(3): 202-11.
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Chem Int Ed, 2003,42: 2100-2138.
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human cancer cells, PNAS, 2005, 102(17): 5998-6003.

10. Roy KK., Sausville EA. Early development of cyclin dependent kinase modulators, Curr Pharm Design,
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12. Christoph M. S., Pascale H., John M. et al., Synthesis and evaluation of analogues of
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Claims
1. An azaindole-indole coupled derivative represented by the formula (IG) or the pharmaceutically
acceptable salts thereof:
Y=Z (IG)
wherein,
Y is an azaindole group represented by formula (Y1) or (Y2);

Z is an indole group represented by formula (Z1) or (Z2);

"=" represents the double bond which is located between the 3-position of the azaindole group (Y) and the
2'- or 3'-position of the indole group (Z);
in the above Y1, Y2, Z1 and Z2, R1 and R1 independendy represent H or the following groups which may
be unsubstituted or substituted by 1 to 3 substituents: C1-C6 alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, acyl, aroyl, glycosyl or biosyl
protected by acyl, glycosyl or biosyl; wherein said substituents are selected from: halogen, hydroxyl, C1-C3
alkyl, nitro or amino;
R2, R3, R4, R2, R3, R4' and R5 independendy represent H, halogen, hydroxyl, sulfhydryl, or the following
groups which may be unsubstituted or substituted by 1 to 3 substituents: C1-C4 alkyl, nitro, amino, amido,
amide, C1-C4 alkoxy, methylthio, phenyl, phenoxy, aryl, aralkyl, trifluoromethyl, acyl, aroyl, sulfonic group,
sulfamoyl, isocyanate, or alkyl isocyanate; wherein said substituents are selected from: halogen, hydroxyl,
C1-C3 alkyl having, nitro or amino;
R represents oxygen, sulfur, selenium, or a NR6 or NOR6 group, wherein R6 is H, or the following groups
which may be unsubstituted or substituted by 1 to 3 substituents: C1-C6 straight-chain or branched-chain alkyl,
aryl, aralkyl, C3-C6 alicyclic group, acyl, aroyl, sulfonyl or phosphoryl; wherein said substituents are selected
from: halogen, hydroxyl, C1-C3 alkyl, nitro or amino.
2. The compound of claim 1 or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein said compounds are
represented by formula (I), (II), (III) or (IV), wherein (I) represent 5-azaindirubin derivatives, (II) represent
5-azaisoindigo derivatives, (III) represent 7-azaindirubin derivatives, and (IV) represent 7-azaisoindigo
derivatives:



wherein, R, R1, R2, R3, R4, R1', R2', R3, R4' and R5' are defined as above.
3. The compound of claim 1 or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R1 and R1 independently
represent H, C1-C6 alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, acyl, aroyl, glycosyl protected by acyl, or glycosyl;
R2, R3, R4, R2', R3', R4and R5' independendy represent H, halogen, hydroxyl, sulfhydryl, C1-C4 alkyl,
amino, amido, amide, C1-C4 alkoxy, methylthio, phenyl, phenoxy, aryl, aralkyl, trifluoromethyl, acyl, aroyl,
sulfonic group, or isocyanate;
Glycosyl as mentioned above is arabinose, xylose, ribose, mannose, or glucose;
R represents oxygen, sulfur, selenium, or a NR6 or NOR6 group, wherein R6 is H, C1-C6 straight-chain or
branched-chain alkyl, aryl, aralkyl, C3-C6 alicychc group, acyl, aroyl, sulfonyl, or phosphoryl.
4. The compound of claim 1 or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein said compound is
selected from 5-azaindirubin derivatives (Table 1: compound Nos 1-59), 5-azaisoindigo derivatives (Table 2:
compound Nos 60-89), 7-azaindirubin derivatives (Table 3: compound Nos 92-150), or 7-azaisoindigo
derivatives (Table 4: compound Nos 151-180).
5. The compound of claim 1 or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein said pharmaceutically
acceptable salts include salts formed with inorganic acids or organic acids, said inorganic acids include:
hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, phosphoric acid, nitric acid, and sulfuric acid; said organic acids include:
methanoic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, succinic acid, naphthalene disulfonic acid (1, 5), asiatic acid,
oxalic acid, tartaric acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, benzoic acid, butylcarboxylic acid, thethylacetic acid,
malonic acid, amber acid, fumaric acid, pimelic acid, hexanedioic acid, maleic acid, malic acid, aminosulfonic
acid, phenylpropionic acid, gluconic acid, ascorbic acid, nicotinic acid, isonicotinic acid, ethanesulfonic acid,
para-toluenesulfonic acid, citric acid and amino acid.
6. A pharmaceutical composition comprising (a) the compound of claim 1 or the pharmaceutically acceptable
salts thereof; and (b) pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.
7. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 6, wherein the dosage form of said pharmaceutical composition is
low capacity injection, medium capacity injection, high capacity injection, powder injection, emulsion for
injection, tablet, pill, capsule, paste, cream, patch, liniment, powder, spray, implantable agent, drop,
suppository, ointment; various nano preparations; or liposomes.
8. A method for preparing a pharmaceutical composition, wherein the method comprises the following steps:
blending (a) the compound of claim 1 or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof and (b)
pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, thereby forming the pharmaceutical composition.
9. The use of the compound of claim 1 or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof in the treatment of the
following diseases: diseases caused by abnormal cyclin-dependent kinases, disorders of cell growth and
proliferation, or insulin resistance.
10. A composition comprising the compound of claim 1 or the pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof as
cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors.

A novel class of azaindole-indole coupled derivatives, their preparation methods, pharmaceutical compositions
containing the same and the uses thereof. The common structural feature of these derivatives is that they are coupled by
azaindole and indole bi-molecule at different positions, forming extended pi-conjuated systems. Such derivatives inhibited
cell growth and proliferation by various mechanisms. The present compounds have improved solubility, increased bioavailability,
and thus have enhanced drug actions, and reduced medical dosages and unfavored responses.

Documents:

http://ipindiaonline.gov.in/patentsearch/GrantedSearch/viewdoc.aspx?id=AxovfZCwuuBYskS2h+hXEg==&loc=wDBSZCsAt7zoiVrqcFJsRw==


Patent Number 268631
Indian Patent Application Number 45/KOLNP/2010
PG Journal Number 37/2015
Publication Date 11-Sep-2015
Grant Date 09-Sep-2015
Date of Filing 05-Jan-2010
Name of Patentee JC(WUXI) COMPANY, INC
Applicant Address NO. 200, 5TH DISTRICT, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PARK, 7 CHANGJIANG ROAD, NEW DISTRICT, WUXI 214028, JIANGSU, REPUBLIC OF CHINA
Inventors:
# Inventor's Name Inventor's Address
1 YAO, QIZHENG 170 HUIHE ROAD, WUXI, JIANGSU 214036 CHINA
2 CHENG, JINGCAI 170 HUIHE ROAD, WUXI, JIANGSU 214036 CHINA
3 WANG, ZHAOHUI 170 HUIHE ROAD, WUXI, JIANGSU 214036 CHINA
4 HUA, WEIYI 170 HUIHE ROAD, WUXI, JIANGSU 214036 CHINA
PCT International Classification Number A61K31/437; A61P35/00; C07D471/04
PCT International Application Number PCT/CN2008/071228
PCT International Filing date 2008-06-06
PCT Conventions:
# PCT Application Number Date of Convention Priority Country
1 200710023347.8 2007-06-08 China