Two-iminocoumarin derivatives as potential protein markers and antitumour agents

In order to examine applicability of 2-iminocoumarine derivatives in the field of detection of biological molecules and pharmaceutics we want to investigate their synthesis and transformations, and study their physical properties and biological activity. The labelling and detection of proteins is a cornerstone of life science research today. Therefore, our attention will be devoted to the study of 2-iminocoumarin derivatives as potential protein markers, related compounds are already known as fluorescent dyes. The aim of our project is the introduction of chloroimino group, which will enable covalent bonding to the protein substrate. Successful application of this method will be presented as a novel mode of connection a fluorophore in protein labelling that can be used in diagnostics in human and veterinary medicine. Furthermore, for the new 2-iminocoumarin derivatives antiproliferative activity is expected. Therefore, their biological activity will be examined and their applicability in the field of pharmaceutics, namely as potential antitumorigenic and/or anitmicrobial and immunomodulatory agents will be evaluated. This project is set as a joint venture with pharmaceutical company Lek with an intention to transfer the know-how towards technological development and therefore enhances innovative approaches and competitiveness of Slovenian economy.