N-substituted benzenesulfonamide compounds: DNA binding properties and molecular docking studies

Benzenesulfonamide-based imine compounds 5–8 were prepared and screened for their binding properties to the FSdsDNA. The structures of synthesized compounds were elucidated by the spectroscopic and analytical methods. Compounds 5–8 were screened for their interactions with the FSdsDNA. Compound 8 showed the highest binding affinity to the FSdsDNA with intrinsic binding constant of 3.10 × 104 M−1. The compounds caused the quenching of the DNA–EB emission indicating displacement of EB (ethidium bromide) from the FSdsDNA. Finally, the binding interactions between the DNA and binder molecules 5–8 were examined by the molecular docking studies. The compounds locate approximately same region of the minor groove of DNA via hydrogen bonding contacts between the sulfonamide oxygen atoms and the DG10/DG16 nucleotides of DNA.