Topoisomerase inhibitors are extensively used in
cancer chemotherapy. In the process of identifying novel anticancer compounds,
biological evaluations are crucial and include, among others, the use of in silico and in vitro approaches. This work aimed to present recent research involving the obtainment and in silico and in vitro evaluation of
topoisomerase I, II, and double inhibitors, of synthetic and natural origin, as potential compounds against
tumor cells, in addition to proposing the construction of a desirable
enzyme catalytic site. Therefore, it was observed that most
Topoisomerase I inhibitors presented medium to large structures, with a rigid portion and a flexible region. In contrast, Topoisomerase IIα inhibitors showed medium and large structural characteristics, in addition to the planarity of the aromatic rings, which are mitigated due to flexible rings but may also present elements that restrict conformation. Most compounds that exhibit dual inhibitory activity had relatively long chains, in addition to a flat and rigid portion suggestive of affinity for
Topo I and a flexible region characteristic of selective drugs for
Topo II. Besides, it is noticed that most compounds that exhibit dual inhibitory showed similarities in the types of interactions and
amino acids when compared to the selective compounds of
Topo I and II. For instance, selective
Topoisomerase I inhibitors interact with Arginine364 residues, and selective
Topoisomerase II inhibitors interact with Arginine487 residues, as both residues are targets for dual compounds.