New synthetic derivatives of isoindoline-dione: synthesis, neuroprotection assay and impact on the expression level of oxidative stress-related genes in neuronal-like cell line.

Purpose: Oxidative stress can damage cells and cause age-related illnesses such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's. This study looked at newly synthesized isoindole derivatives and their effects on SH-SY5Y as a neuroblastoma cell under oxidative stress through the NRF2 signaling pathway. NRF2 transcription factor plays a vital role in the oxidative stress response and cellular homeostasis.

Method: Three isoindoline-dione derivatives were synthesized by reacting phthalic anhydrides with 4-(2-aminoethyl)-1-benzyl piperidine. Their structures were confirmed through FT-IR, NMR, and Mass spectroscopy. The derivatives were then tested on human SH-SY5Y cells under an oxidative stress model induced by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). The cell viability, ROS levels, protein carbonyl content, and gene expression of NRF2 and phase II antioxidative enzymes were measured after 24 h.

Results: Three isoindoline derivatives (3a-3c) were observed to increase the viability of SH-SY5Y cells by protective against oxidative stress, reducing intracellular reactive oxygen species and carbonylated proteins, and increasing gene expression levels of NRF2 and associated genes such as NQO-1, and GSTK1.

Conclusion: Isoindoline derivatives demonstrated a neuroprotective effect on SH-SY5Y cells through various neuroprotective mechanisms, although more studies are needed.