Kinetin (N6-furfuryladenine), a plant growth substance of the
cytokinin family, has been shown to modulate aging and various age-related conditions in animal models. Here we report the synthesis of
kinetin isosteres with the
purine ring replaced by other bicyclic heterocycles, and the biological evaluation of their activity in several in vitro models related to
neurodegenerative diseases. Our findings indicate that
kinetin isosteres protect Friedreich́s
ataxia patient-derived fibroblasts against
glutathione depletion, protect neuron-like SH-SY5Y cells from
glutamate-induced oxidative damage, and correct aberrant splicing of the ELP1 gene in fibroblasts derived from a
familial dysautonomia patient. Although the mechanism of action of
kinetin derivatives remains unclear, our data suggest that the cytoprotective activity of some
purine isosteres is mediated by their ability to reduce oxidative stress. Further, the studies of permeation across
artificial membrane and model gut and blood-brain barriers indicate that the compounds are orally available and can reach central nervous system. Overall, our data demonstrate that isosteric replacement of the
kinetin purine scaffold is a fruitful strategy for improving known biological activities of
kinetin and discovering novel therapeutic opportunities.