Thiazolidinones and related analogues as efficient antitrypanosomal agents.

We designed and synthesised a series of thiazolidinediones and related analogues and evaluated their antiparasitic activity. A structure-activity relationship (SAR) study focused on modifications of specific parts of the molecule revealed derivatives that displayed significant activity against Trypanosoma brucei species. Notably, the analogue 6i exhibited exceptional activity, with an EC(50) value of 30 nM and a selectivity index of >2000, against the protozoan Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, which causes human African trypanosomiasis. Additionally, compounds 6a, 6k, 7e, and 18 demonstrated antitrypanosomal activities in the less than 5 muM range. Our most active analogue 6i represents a promising candidate for further preclinical development.