Semi-empirical calculations on paullones, a promising class of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors.

Paullones, a group of ATP-competitive 7,12-dihydroindolo [3,2-d][1]benzazepin-6(5H)-ones are well-established cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors with promising anti-tumoral properties. In this study, AM1 (Austin model 1) calculations have been performed on paullones and their biological activities have been explained with respect to their HOMO and LUMO energies. 9-Substituted paullones with electrophilic character show high potencies. The interaction of 9th substitutent with Phe-80 of receptor plays a key role in binding and potency. The study will help medicinal chemists to design efficient CDK inhibitiors.