Novel 1-(2-Aryl-2-adamantyl)piperazine Derivatives Exhibit In Vitro Anticancer Activity Across Various Human Cancer Cell Lines, with Selective Efficacy Against Melanoma

Background and Objectives: Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is widely regarded as the most aggressive form of skin cancer worldwide, showing a rising global incidence. It develops from the uncontrolled transformation of pigment-producing melanocytes. The aim of this study is to characterize the cytotoxic and anti-proliferative properties of two 1-(2-aryl-adamantyl)piperazine derivatives, 6 and 7, with a specific emphasis on their impact on melanoma cells. Both compounds are synthesized based on the adamantane core structure which increases drug-like properties of the lead compound phencyclidine I, without increasing toxicity. Materials and Methods: This study describes concentration-dependent effects on cell viability and clonogenicity. Results: SRB assays, clonogenic (long-term) assays, and scratch assays reveal a significant anticancer activity of these two agents at low μΜ levels with a selective activity against melanoma cells. Furthermore, Western blot experiments indicate that both 6 and 7 induce LC3 accumulation, procaspase 3 decrease, and PARP cleavage, suggesting the implication of multiple death pathways in their anticancer mechanism of action. Conclusions: This study sheds light on the in vitro anticancer potential of two novel 1-(2-aryl-2-adamantyl)piperazine derivatives. It highlights their differential activity against melanoma and emphasizes their potential as lead candidates for further therapeutic exploration.