Synthesis of 1,2,3-triazole-linked pyrrolobenzodiazepine conjugates employing 'click' chemistry: DNA-binding affinity and anticancer activity.

1,2,3-Triazole based molecules are useful pharmacophores for several DNA-alkylating and cross-linking agents. A series of A/C8, C/C2 and A/C8-C/C2-linked 1,2,3-triazole-PBD conjugates have been synthesized by employing 'click' chemistry. These molecules have exhibited promising DNA-binding affinity and anticancer activity in selected human cancer cell lines.