Unveiling the Anti-cancer Potential of Oxadiazole Derivatives: A Comprehensive Exploration of Structure-Activity Relationships and Chemico-Biological Insights

Background: Oxadiazole derivatives have shown significant potential as anti-cancer agents with low μM potencies. Some examples of drugs in this class include Raltegravir, Zibotentan, Setileuton (MK-0633), Nesapidil, Furamizole, and Tidazosin. The presence of the oxadiazole nucleus in Raltegravir exemplifies its importance in drug development, showcasing how specific structural motifs like oxadiazole can be strategically incorporated into molecules to achieve desired therapeutic effects. A large number of researchers across the globe have already developed and reported many oxadiazoles as potential anti-cancer medicines. Objective: Therefore, we tried to discuss the anti-cancer potentials of oxadiazole derivatives reported between 2019 and 2023. The design strategies, structure-activity relationship (SAR), and protein- inhibitor interactions of potential compounds on different targets have to be identified to help the medicinal chemists design new drug-likeness oxadiazole molecules for anti-cancer therapy. Similarly, the ADMET profiles of potential oxadiazoles using the in silico SWISSADME tool have to be studied. Results: We have highlighted the recently reported most potent oxadiazole derivatives as well as their hybrid compounds. The SAR study revealed that oxadiazole-linked pyridine, indazole, thiadiazine, quinoxaline, thiazolidine, indeno-pyrazole, thiophene, piperidine, benzimidazole, triazole, and sulphonamide showcased promising anti-cancer action. The chemico-biological interactions of potential oxadiazole compounds suggest good interactions with different amino acid residues that make them possible candidates for developing novel and effective anti-cancer therapies. Similarly, the in silico ADMET report suggested favourable physicochemical, pharmacokinetic, and druglikeness properties of potential oxadiazole compounds. Conclusion: Overall, these results will prove to be a helpful and vital tool for medicinal chemists investigating and working with oxadiazoles for anti-cancer action.