# Schiff Bases of Isatin and Adamantane-1-Carbohydrazide: Synthesis, Characterization and Anticonvulsant Activity

Authors: Hind M. Osman; Tilal Elsaman; Bashir A. Yousef; Esraa Elhadi; Aimun A. E. Ahmed; Eyman Mohamed Eltayib; Malik Suliman Mohamed; Magdi Awadalla Mohamed
Journal: Journal of Chemistry
 (2021)

---

## Abstract

Epilepsy is the most common neurological condition and cause of substantial morbidity and mortality. In the present study, the molecular hybridization tool was adopted to obtain six Schiff bases of isatin and adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (18–23). Then, their anticonvulsant activity was evaluated using pentylenetetrazole- (PTZ-) induced seizure model using phenobarbitone as a positive control. Our findings showed that compounds 18–23 provided significant protection against PTZ-induced seizure, and maximum activities were associated with compound 23. Moreover, all investigated compounds increased the latency of induced convulsion and reduced the duration of epilepsy with compound 23 being the best. Interestingly, most of the synthesized molecules showed reduction in neurological symptoms and severity of the seizure. Molecular docking studies suggest GABA-A receptor as a potential target, andin silico ADME screening revealed that the pharmaceutical properties of compound 23 are within the specified limit. Thus, compound 23 was identified as a promising candidate that warrants further drug discovery processes.


---

## Body

## 1. Introduction

Epilepsy is one of the neurological disorders that involves abnormal electrical activity in the central nervous system, which results in spontaneous and recurrent seizures with or without loss of consciousness [1]. It is a group of diverse syndromes affecting more than 50 million people of different ages worldwide, and it poses a substantial economic burden in terms of health care services and lost productivity at work [2]. Furthermore, the presence and magnitude of related psychiatric conditions, such as anxiety and depressive disorders, make seizures worse, and can impair the quality of life in several domains [2]. Currently used antiepileptic drugs, such as phenytoin, phenobarbitone, and carbamazepine, are associated with serious side effects, and in several cases, they failed to manage seizures adequately. Moreover, studies have disclosed that around 30% of patients are resistant to the conventional antiepileptic therapy [3–5]. In this context, there is an urgent need to develop more efficacious antiepileptic drugs with reduced potential to induce side effects. Such new antiepileptic drugs should be explored based on original ideas to open new avenues for adequate control of this devastating disease [6–8]. Researchers now follow three main modalities in attempts to develop new antiepileptic drugs: (I) chemical optimization of currently existing drugs, (II) discovery of new therapeutic entities against novel potential therapeutic targets, and (III) conventional drug screening (nontarget-driven) approach [8].Isatin (indoline-2,3-dione) (1) (Figure1) is a heterocyclic structure with a wide range of biodynamic activities [9–12].Figure 1
Chemical structures of the promising anticonvulsant isatin derivative.Several isatin-based derivatives (Figure1) have been reported to possess anticonvulsant properties [13]. Some of these were reported for their enhanced antiepileptic activity through a significant elevation of GABA levels in the brain [14].Adamantane (5) (Figure2) and its derivatives were revealed in the literature to possess broad-spectrum pharmacological activities [15]. By virtue of its hydrophobic nature, adamantane was extensively adopted in drug discovery as a modifier of the pharmaceutical and pharmacokinetic properties of several drug classes [16–18]. To this end, incorporation of adamantane moiety has been shown to enhance CNS penetration of the modified structures, and consequently, this has been considered of value in promoting CNS drug targeting [15]. In this regard, adamantane derivatives (6–8) (Figure 2) have been documented to display excellent anticonvulsant activity via different modes of action including the blockade of the NMDA-activated channel [19–23].Figure 2
Chemical structure of adamantane derivatives reported with promising anticonvulsant activity.Despite the long clinical success of conventional antiepileptic drugs, it has been established that the concept of “one-drug-one-target-one-disease” is unsatisfactory in treating this heterogeneous disease. Furthermore, new-generation antiepileptic drugs have shown low efficacy in adequate controlling of seizures [24]. Thus, there is an urgent need to deliver new potent antiepileptic drugs.Recently, literature has grown up around the theme of molecular hybridization as an efficient drug design strategy that affords ligands to be able to interact with multiple targets of interest [25]. This strategy involves the fusion of two pharmacophoric moieties in a single structural framework [26].Considering all these factors into account, the study presented here aims to contribute to the growing area of antiepileptic drug discovery by exploring new molecular architecture (Figure3) designed through hybridization of two pharmacophoric moieties, namely, isatin and adamantane. The resultant hybrid molecules are expected to possess an enhanced CNS penetration, together with their ability to modulate multiple targets involved in the etiology of epilepsy. Different substitution patterns with different electronic and/or hydrophobic environments were adopted to get an insight into their possible SAR.Figure 3
General chemical structure of the hybrid molecules.


## 2. Results and Discussion

### 2.1. Chemistry

Initially, adamantane-1-carboxylic acid (9) was subjected to esterification (Scheme1) to afford methyl adamantane-1-carboxylate (10) in good yield (85%). Subsequent reaction of 10 with hydrazine hydrate under reflux condition (Scheme 1) provided adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (11) in excellent yield (98%) [27, 28].Scheme 1
Synthesis of adamantane-1-carbohydrazide.The 5-substituted isatin derivatives 12–14 are commercially available, while the key intermediates 15 and 16 were yielded by treatment of 12 and 13 with 37% formalin under reflux conditions and were obtained in 50% yield [29]. On the contrary, intermediate 17 (62%) was derivatized through alkylation of 5-bromoisatin (13) with benzyl chloride in DMF at 80°C using catalytic amount of potassium carbonate [29]. Finally, the designed Schiff bases (18–23) (47–82%) were prepared following the synthetic route depicted in Scheme 2 via condensation of adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (11) with the appropriate isatin derivative (12–17) according to a reported procedure [11].Scheme 2
Synthesis of target hybrid molecules 18–23.All the synthesized compounds were purified by recrystallization from the appropriate solvent, and their chemical structures were verified by recording their IR,1H, and 13C NMR.Ester (10) and hydrazide (11) showed strong absorptions at 1730 and 1613 cm−1, respectively, indicating the presence of carbonyl functionality in each case. Furthermore, two distinct absorption bands become visible at 3328 and 3280 cm−1 indicating NH2 stretching in 11. 1-Hdroxymethylisatins 15 and 16 showed broad bands ranging from 3313 to 3446 cm−1 corresponding to the free OH group. N-Alkyl isatin 17 displayed absorption bands at 3091 cm−1 and 2972 cm−1 corresponding to aromatic C-H stretching and aliphatic C-H stretching, respectively. The IR spectra of Schiff bases 18–23 were apparently distinct from their respective intermediates. To this end, the appearance of a sharp band in the range of 1670–1690 cm−1 denotes stretching of hydrazide carbonyl (CONHN) in all Schiff bases. In addition, bands around 1700 cm−1 correspond to amide carbonyl (CONH) functionality in compounds 18–20.The1H NMR spectra of the synthesized compounds are in consistence with the proposed chemical structures. For Schiff bases 18–23, the spectra displayed the adamantane-1-carbohydrazide and the indole sets of protons in a manner consistent with their designed structures. The 15 aliphatic protons in the adamantane moiety are exhibited as multiplets in a range of δ 1.59–2.13 ppm [30]. 1H NMR spectra of 18 and 21 displayed the four aromatic protons of the indole ring ranging from δ 6.45 to 8.22 ppm, which are consistent with the reported data [31, 32]. In 5-substituted isatin derivatives, 19, 20, 22, and 23, the three aromatic hydrogens are relatively shifted downfield due to 5-substitution by the electron-withdrawing group. Compounds 18–20 showed a broad singlet peak at δ 9.02–11.44 ppm integrated to one proton assigned for the deshielded ArNHCO proton of the indole ring. However, this peak is not displayed for N-alkylated compounds (21–23). 1-Hydroxy methylated products 21 and 22 displayed a broad singlet peak at δ 8.70–8.89 ppm integrated to one proton assigned to hydroxyl group hydrogen. Moreover, a singlet signal at δ 3.58–3.94 ppm integrated for 2H is ascribed to ArNCH2. 1H NMR spectrum of N-benzyl derivative 23 exhibited five aromatic hydrogens attributed to the benzyl group protons at δ 7–7.5 ppm beside the aromatic protons of the indole ring.As a general pattern, the13C NMR spectra in all compounds are in consistence with the chemical structures and with the previously reported data [32–34]. The most observable trend in 13C NMR spectra is related to the number of peaks displayed at the aromatic region that are always equal to the sum of the equivalent aromatic carbons for each compound. The 13C NMR spectra exhibit characteristic signals resonating around δ 160.28–161.69 ppm corresponding to hydrazide amide (NHCO) carbon. Additional signals centered at δ 175.21–176.76 ppmare attributed to lactam carbonyl (ArNCO) carbon. Compounds 21 and 22 exploited signals resonating at δ 73.34 ppm attributed to (N-CH2-OH) methylene carbon, while benzylic methylene of 23 is shown at δ 43 ppm.


### 2.2. Anticonvulsant Activity

#### 2.2.1. Protection Rate % of the Synthesized Compounds against PTZ-Induced Seizure

Protection rate % from PTZ-induced seizure was measured for the six synthesized compounds (18–23) along with the positive control, phenobarbital, at two dose levels (30 and 100 mg/kg). On the contrary, the negative control group received only 5% methylcellulose. Contrary to what has been reported [35], phenobarbital at the two tested doses, 30 and 100 mg/kg, showed 25% and 100% protection against PTZ-induced seizure, respectively (Figure 4). Compound 18 at 100 mg/kg displayed a protection rate of 58% (Figure 4), while at the lower dose, it was inactive. Insertion of the bromo group at C5 of the indole ring rendered compound 19 inactive at the two tested doses (Figure 4). On the contrary, chloro substitution at the same position as in compound 20 led to significant protection (40%) at the low dose, while no activity was observed for this compound at the higher dose (Figure 4). Hydroxymethylation of position 1 for Schiff bases 18 and 19 afforded compounds 21 and 22, respectively. These compounds demonstrated significant seizure protection rates at the low dose (>40%), while their bioactivity reduced at the higher doses. These results propose that manipulation of position 1 by polar functionality improves the anticonvulsant activity. Based on this, we tried to introduce the nonpolar motif through N-benzylation of the most potent compound 22 to furnish the more lipophilic compound 23. Being superior to the standard drug phenobarbitone in terms of seizure protection rate, compound 23 emerged as the most potent as it displayed 67% seizure protection at the low dose of 30 mg/kg and 58% at the higher dose of 100 mg/kg as shown in Figure 4.Figure 4
Protection rate of the synthesized Schiff bases (18–23) along with the standard drug phenobarbitone against PTZ-induced seizure.
(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(f)(g)Correlation between lipophilicity and anticonvulsant activity was reported [36–38]. For anticonvulsant agents to be effective, they have to attain adequate concentration in the brain through the efficient crossing of BBB. All compounds investigated here were found to have CLogP values (Table 1) above 2, which is an important feature for effective CNS penetrability [38]. It is worthnoting that the most efficacious compound 23 has a CLogP value of 6.952, which exceeds that of the other compounds. In this regard, the high potency for compound 23 could be partially explained based on its higher lipophilicity, which directly influences the CNS delivery.Table 1
Drug-like properties and docking energies of compounds 18–23.
CompoundCLogPMWaTPSAbHBAcHBDdNrotbeDocking energies (kcal/mol)Phenobarbitone1.41232.2475.27232−5.903183.445323.3970.56323−7.629194.30840270.57323−7.991204.158357.870.56323−7.902213.95835382424−8.357224.46143282424−8.662236.952492.461.77315−7.875aMolecular weight; btopological polar surface area; chydrogen bond acceptor; dhydrogen bond donor; enumber of rotatable bonds.


#### 2.2.2. Effect of Synthesized Compounds on Latency and Duration of PTZ-Induced Seizure

The time in seconds of the onset of the seizure, expressed as the latency of convulsion, and the duration of the PTZ-induced seizure were obtained for the six synthesized compounds and phenobarbital at 30 and 100 mg/kg doses. As illustrated in Table2, compounds 18–23 increased the latency of convulsion with compound 23 exhibiting a significant delay on the onset of PTZ-induced seizures (1263 ± 501.2 sec) compared to the positive control (467.5 ± 56.41 sec) at 30 mg/kg dose. These results are consistent with those disclosed in the literature which described the influence of isatin-inspired compounds on latency time of convulsions [14]. Furthermore, except compound 20 at the low dose, all the synthesized Schiff bases were found effective in shortening the epileptic duration (Table 2) with significant effect observed for compounds 18 and 21–23. Compounds 18, 22, and 23 at low doses (30 mg/kg) were more effective than the standard drug at the same dose, pointing to their seizure protection ability at relatively lower doses. It is worthwhile to mention that these compounds displayed better protection at lower doses (30 mg/kg) rather than the higher doses (100 mg/kg) as shown in Table 2.Table 2
Effect of the synthesized compounds on latency and duration of PTZ-induced seizure.
CompoundDose (mg/kg)Time (sec.) of the latency of convulsions (MEN ± SEM)Duration (sec.) of convulsion (MEN ± SEM)Methylcellulose0.004 mL/g280.5 ± 54.06116 ± 12.99Phenobarbitone30467.5 ± 56.4158 ±10.68∗100NilNil1830313.3 ± 84.4734.25 ± 4.80∗∗∗100780 ± 243.762.50 ± 9.77∗1930539.3 ± 169.895.00 ± 27.54100494.8 ± 8.17982.75 ± 13.072030600.0 ± 73.48115.0 ± 5.00100675.0 ± 137.277.5 ± 10.312130429.0 ± 94.1964.50 ± 8.95∗100432.5 ± 124.755.00 ± 5.00∗∗2230513.5 ± 70.8946.00 ± 8.495∗∗100396.8 ± 78.0445.00 ± 0.00∗∗23301263 ± 501.2∗∗45.75 ± 9.903∗∗100329.8 ± 23.0164.25 ± 12.17∗Data analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s test (n = 4); ∗P<0.05, ∗∗P<0.01, and ∗∗∗P<0.001 when compared with the control group.


#### 2.2.3. Effect of the Investigated Compounds on Neurological Signs of PTZ-Induced Seizure

The neurological signs and severity of the PTZ-induced seizure were observed for 1 hour after the administration of compounds 18–23 along with phenobarbitone. As shown in Table3, all candidate compounds demonstrated a reduction in PTZ-induced neurological signs of seizures. The most potent compound 23 was proved to be better than the standard drug in minimizing these signs at the dose (30 mg/kg).Table 3
Effect of synthesized compounds on neurological signs∗ of PTZ-induced seizure 1 hour after induction.
CompoundDose (mg\kg)Myoclonic jerksS-shape in the tailUpright positionHead noddingLoss of postural controlMuscle flaccidA tonic or clonicMethyl cellulose 5%0.004 mL/g++++++++++++++++++++Phenobarbital30+++++++++++100NilNilNilNilNilNilNil1830++++NilNil+++++100Nil++Nil+++++1930+++++++++++++++100+++++++++++++2030++++Nil+++++++++100+++++++++++++++2130+++++Nil++++100+++++Nil+++++2230++++++++++100++++++++++++++2330++NilNil++++100++++++NilNil∗The severity of the neurological signs: +mild, ++moderate, and +++severe.


#### 2.2.4. Neurotoxicity of the Investigated Compounds

Neurotoxicity of compounds 18–23, along with the standard drug, was assessed for 1 hour after the induction of the seizure. To this end, compounds 18–23, together with phenobarbitone, exhibited CNS depressive effects such as somnolence and sleep after 1 hour of seizure induction, as depicted in Table4. While compounds 19 and 21 revealed signs of CNS toxicity such as lack of exploratory behavior and catalepsy, the most potent candidate 23 at 30 mg/kg displayed a similar pattern of neurological toxicity to the standard drug at the same tested dose.Table 4
Neurotoxicity∗ of synthesized compounds during 1 hour of induction.
CompoundDose (mg\kg)Circular or zigzag gaitAbnormal spread of legsAbnormal postureTremorLack of exploratory behaviorSomnolence or sleepStupor or catalepsyMethyl cellulose—+++++++NilNilNilPhenobarbital30+++++Nil1 hNil100NilNilNilNilNil1 hNil1830Nil++++++1 hNil100Nil+++++1 hNil1930+++++++++1 h++100Nil+++++++1 h++2030Nil+++++1 hNil100++++++1 h1 h1 h2130Nil++++1 h+100+++++1 hNil2230Nil++++++Nil1 hNil100Nil++++++Nil1 hNil2330Nil++++Nil1 h1 h100NilNil+++1 h1 h∗The severity of the neurotoxicity signs: +mild, ++moderate, and +++severe.


### 2.3. Molecular Modelling Studies

#### 2.3.1. Docking on GABAA Receptor (3IP9)

GABA is the majorCNS inhibitory neurotransmitter involved in the pathophysiology of epilepsy [39]. Therapeutic agents acting through the modulation of the GABAA receptor have been reported to inhibit seizures in both experimental animals and humans [40]. It has been reported that PTZ mediates its convulsive action through direct inhibition of the GABAergic process in the CNS [41]. Since the synthesized compounds antagonized the convulsion induced by PTZ, it probably may exert its anticonvulsant activities through activation of GABAergic transmission in similar mechanisms of barbiturates such as phenobarbital [42]. Molecular docking is a powerful tool for investigating the potential action mode of biodynamically active molecules. Therefore molecular docking analysis has been carried out to assess the potential molecular interaction patterns of compounds 18–23 with the GABAA receptor. The docking energies (kcal/mol) of the synthesized compounds against phenobarbitone are summarized in Table 1. As shown in Table 1, compounds 18–23 exhibited lower docking energies ranging from −7.6 to −8.6 kcal/mol, which are relatively far less than the standard drug phenobarbitone (−5.903 kcal/mol). This could be partially explained by the formation of more stable complexes as a consequence of better positioning of these compounds in the active center of the receptor. While the relatively less active compound 22 displayed the lowest binding energy (−8.662 kcal/mol), the most potent compound 23 showed a binding energy of −7.875 kcal/mol. This could be rationalized by the relatively high hydrophobicity of compound 23 (CLogP = 6.952), which facilitates the penetration of 23 into the brain in high concentration levels. The 3D interaction of the GABAA receptor with phenobarbital and compound 23 is shown in Figure 5, indicating hydrophobic interaction of the isatin moiety, which is further augmented by deep longitudinal insertion of the benzyl group in the hydrophobic pocket. Such an interaction has been documented in the literature for potent anticonvulsant compounds proposing the necessity of aryl/alkyl hydrophobic group as key structural elements [43]. Thus, the superior activity of 23 appears to be due to the unique existence of the benzyl group which aid to (i) Hydrophobic interaction with the binding site; (ii) Increase CNS penetrability.Figure 5
3D interaction of the GABAA receptor with phenobarbital and compound 23; phenobarbitone: green color; compound 23: violet color.


#### 2.3.2. Drug-Likeness Study

Prediction of ADMET properties of the titled compounds such as partition coefficient (CLogP), topological polar surface area (TPSA), and number of rotatable bonds (Nrotb), in addition to violations of Lipinski’s and Veber’s parameters, was performed using SwissADME server. As shown in Table1, all compounds were in complete agreement with Lipinski’s rule of five and Veber’s parameters. Thus, these compounds have positive drug-likeness such as good oral bioavailability and favorable CNS penetrability and hence could be envisioned as promising and potential leads for further investigations.


## 2.1. Chemistry

Initially, adamantane-1-carboxylic acid (9) was subjected to esterification (Scheme1) to afford methyl adamantane-1-carboxylate (10) in good yield (85%). Subsequent reaction of 10 with hydrazine hydrate under reflux condition (Scheme 1) provided adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (11) in excellent yield (98%) [27, 28].Scheme 1
Synthesis of adamantane-1-carbohydrazide.The 5-substituted isatin derivatives 12–14 are commercially available, while the key intermediates 15 and 16 were yielded by treatment of 12 and 13 with 37% formalin under reflux conditions and were obtained in 50% yield [29]. On the contrary, intermediate 17 (62%) was derivatized through alkylation of 5-bromoisatin (13) with benzyl chloride in DMF at 80°C using catalytic amount of potassium carbonate [29]. Finally, the designed Schiff bases (18–23) (47–82%) were prepared following the synthetic route depicted in Scheme 2 via condensation of adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (11) with the appropriate isatin derivative (12–17) according to a reported procedure [11].Scheme 2
Synthesis of target hybrid molecules 18–23.All the synthesized compounds were purified by recrystallization from the appropriate solvent, and their chemical structures were verified by recording their IR,1H, and 13C NMR.Ester (10) and hydrazide (11) showed strong absorptions at 1730 and 1613 cm−1, respectively, indicating the presence of carbonyl functionality in each case. Furthermore, two distinct absorption bands become visible at 3328 and 3280 cm−1 indicating NH2 stretching in 11. 1-Hdroxymethylisatins 15 and 16 showed broad bands ranging from 3313 to 3446 cm−1 corresponding to the free OH group. N-Alkyl isatin 17 displayed absorption bands at 3091 cm−1 and 2972 cm−1 corresponding to aromatic C-H stretching and aliphatic C-H stretching, respectively. The IR spectra of Schiff bases 18–23 were apparently distinct from their respective intermediates. To this end, the appearance of a sharp band in the range of 1670–1690 cm−1 denotes stretching of hydrazide carbonyl (CONHN) in all Schiff bases. In addition, bands around 1700 cm−1 correspond to amide carbonyl (CONH) functionality in compounds 18–20.The1H NMR spectra of the synthesized compounds are in consistence with the proposed chemical structures. For Schiff bases 18–23, the spectra displayed the adamantane-1-carbohydrazide and the indole sets of protons in a manner consistent with their designed structures. The 15 aliphatic protons in the adamantane moiety are exhibited as multiplets in a range of δ 1.59–2.13 ppm [30]. 1H NMR spectra of 18 and 21 displayed the four aromatic protons of the indole ring ranging from δ 6.45 to 8.22 ppm, which are consistent with the reported data [31, 32]. In 5-substituted isatin derivatives, 19, 20, 22, and 23, the three aromatic hydrogens are relatively shifted downfield due to 5-substitution by the electron-withdrawing group. Compounds 18–20 showed a broad singlet peak at δ 9.02–11.44 ppm integrated to one proton assigned for the deshielded ArNHCO proton of the indole ring. However, this peak is not displayed for N-alkylated compounds (21–23). 1-Hydroxy methylated products 21 and 22 displayed a broad singlet peak at δ 8.70–8.89 ppm integrated to one proton assigned to hydroxyl group hydrogen. Moreover, a singlet signal at δ 3.58–3.94 ppm integrated for 2H is ascribed to ArNCH2. 1H NMR spectrum of N-benzyl derivative 23 exhibited five aromatic hydrogens attributed to the benzyl group protons at δ 7–7.5 ppm beside the aromatic protons of the indole ring.As a general pattern, the13C NMR spectra in all compounds are in consistence with the chemical structures and with the previously reported data [32–34]. The most observable trend in 13C NMR spectra is related to the number of peaks displayed at the aromatic region that are always equal to the sum of the equivalent aromatic carbons for each compound. The 13C NMR spectra exhibit characteristic signals resonating around δ 160.28–161.69 ppm corresponding to hydrazide amide (NHCO) carbon. Additional signals centered at δ 175.21–176.76 ppmare attributed to lactam carbonyl (ArNCO) carbon. Compounds 21 and 22 exploited signals resonating at δ 73.34 ppm attributed to (N-CH2-OH) methylene carbon, while benzylic methylene of 23 is shown at δ 43 ppm.


## 2.2. Anticonvulsant Activity

### 2.2.1. Protection Rate % of the Synthesized Compounds against PTZ-Induced Seizure

Protection rate % from PTZ-induced seizure was measured for the six synthesized compounds (18–23) along with the positive control, phenobarbital, at two dose levels (30 and 100 mg/kg). On the contrary, the negative control group received only 5% methylcellulose. Contrary to what has been reported [35], phenobarbital at the two tested doses, 30 and 100 mg/kg, showed 25% and 100% protection against PTZ-induced seizure, respectively (Figure 4). Compound 18 at 100 mg/kg displayed a protection rate of 58% (Figure 4), while at the lower dose, it was inactive. Insertion of the bromo group at C5 of the indole ring rendered compound 19 inactive at the two tested doses (Figure 4). On the contrary, chloro substitution at the same position as in compound 20 led to significant protection (40%) at the low dose, while no activity was observed for this compound at the higher dose (Figure 4). Hydroxymethylation of position 1 for Schiff bases 18 and 19 afforded compounds 21 and 22, respectively. These compounds demonstrated significant seizure protection rates at the low dose (>40%), while their bioactivity reduced at the higher doses. These results propose that manipulation of position 1 by polar functionality improves the anticonvulsant activity. Based on this, we tried to introduce the nonpolar motif through N-benzylation of the most potent compound 22 to furnish the more lipophilic compound 23. Being superior to the standard drug phenobarbitone in terms of seizure protection rate, compound 23 emerged as the most potent as it displayed 67% seizure protection at the low dose of 30 mg/kg and 58% at the higher dose of 100 mg/kg as shown in Figure 4.Figure 4
Protection rate of the synthesized Schiff bases (18–23) along with the standard drug phenobarbitone against PTZ-induced seizure.
(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(f)(g)Correlation between lipophilicity and anticonvulsant activity was reported [36–38]. For anticonvulsant agents to be effective, they have to attain adequate concentration in the brain through the efficient crossing of BBB. All compounds investigated here were found to have CLogP values (Table 1) above 2, which is an important feature for effective CNS penetrability [38]. It is worthnoting that the most efficacious compound 23 has a CLogP value of 6.952, which exceeds that of the other compounds. In this regard, the high potency for compound 23 could be partially explained based on its higher lipophilicity, which directly influences the CNS delivery.Table 1
Drug-like properties and docking energies of compounds 18–23.
CompoundCLogPMWaTPSAbHBAcHBDdNrotbeDocking energies (kcal/mol)Phenobarbitone1.41232.2475.27232−5.903183.445323.3970.56323−7.629194.30840270.57323−7.991204.158357.870.56323−7.902213.95835382424−8.357224.46143282424−8.662236.952492.461.77315−7.875aMolecular weight; btopological polar surface area; chydrogen bond acceptor; dhydrogen bond donor; enumber of rotatable bonds.


### 2.2.2. Effect of Synthesized Compounds on Latency and Duration of PTZ-Induced Seizure

The time in seconds of the onset of the seizure, expressed as the latency of convulsion, and the duration of the PTZ-induced seizure were obtained for the six synthesized compounds and phenobarbital at 30 and 100 mg/kg doses. As illustrated in Table2, compounds 18–23 increased the latency of convulsion with compound 23 exhibiting a significant delay on the onset of PTZ-induced seizures (1263 ± 501.2 sec) compared to the positive control (467.5 ± 56.41 sec) at 30 mg/kg dose. These results are consistent with those disclosed in the literature which described the influence of isatin-inspired compounds on latency time of convulsions [14]. Furthermore, except compound 20 at the low dose, all the synthesized Schiff bases were found effective in shortening the epileptic duration (Table 2) with significant effect observed for compounds 18 and 21–23. Compounds 18, 22, and 23 at low doses (30 mg/kg) were more effective than the standard drug at the same dose, pointing to their seizure protection ability at relatively lower doses. It is worthwhile to mention that these compounds displayed better protection at lower doses (30 mg/kg) rather than the higher doses (100 mg/kg) as shown in Table 2.Table 2
Effect of the synthesized compounds on latency and duration of PTZ-induced seizure.
CompoundDose (mg/kg)Time (sec.) of the latency of convulsions (MEN ± SEM)Duration (sec.) of convulsion (MEN ± SEM)Methylcellulose0.004 mL/g280.5 ± 54.06116 ± 12.99Phenobarbitone30467.5 ± 56.4158 ±10.68∗100NilNil1830313.3 ± 84.4734.25 ± 4.80∗∗∗100780 ± 243.762.50 ± 9.77∗1930539.3 ± 169.895.00 ± 27.54100494.8 ± 8.17982.75 ± 13.072030600.0 ± 73.48115.0 ± 5.00100675.0 ± 137.277.5 ± 10.312130429.0 ± 94.1964.50 ± 8.95∗100432.5 ± 124.755.00 ± 5.00∗∗2230513.5 ± 70.8946.00 ± 8.495∗∗100396.8 ± 78.0445.00 ± 0.00∗∗23301263 ± 501.2∗∗45.75 ± 9.903∗∗100329.8 ± 23.0164.25 ± 12.17∗Data analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s test (n = 4); ∗P<0.05, ∗∗P<0.01, and ∗∗∗P<0.001 when compared with the control group.


### 2.2.3. Effect of the Investigated Compounds on Neurological Signs of PTZ-Induced Seizure

The neurological signs and severity of the PTZ-induced seizure were observed for 1 hour after the administration of compounds 18–23 along with phenobarbitone. As shown in Table3, all candidate compounds demonstrated a reduction in PTZ-induced neurological signs of seizures. The most potent compound 23 was proved to be better than the standard drug in minimizing these signs at the dose (30 mg/kg).Table 3
Effect of synthesized compounds on neurological signs∗ of PTZ-induced seizure 1 hour after induction.
CompoundDose (mg\kg)Myoclonic jerksS-shape in the tailUpright positionHead noddingLoss of postural controlMuscle flaccidA tonic or clonicMethyl cellulose 5%0.004 mL/g++++++++++++++++++++Phenobarbital30+++++++++++100NilNilNilNilNilNilNil1830++++NilNil+++++100Nil++Nil+++++1930+++++++++++++++100+++++++++++++2030++++Nil+++++++++100+++++++++++++++2130+++++Nil++++100+++++Nil+++++2230++++++++++100++++++++++++++2330++NilNil++++100++++++NilNil∗The severity of the neurological signs: +mild, ++moderate, and +++severe.


### 2.2.4. Neurotoxicity of the Investigated Compounds

Neurotoxicity of compounds 18–23, along with the standard drug, was assessed for 1 hour after the induction of the seizure. To this end, compounds 18–23, together with phenobarbitone, exhibited CNS depressive effects such as somnolence and sleep after 1 hour of seizure induction, as depicted in Table4. While compounds 19 and 21 revealed signs of CNS toxicity such as lack of exploratory behavior and catalepsy, the most potent candidate 23 at 30 mg/kg displayed a similar pattern of neurological toxicity to the standard drug at the same tested dose.Table 4
Neurotoxicity∗ of synthesized compounds during 1 hour of induction.
CompoundDose (mg\kg)Circular or zigzag gaitAbnormal spread of legsAbnormal postureTremorLack of exploratory behaviorSomnolence or sleepStupor or catalepsyMethyl cellulose—+++++++NilNilNilPhenobarbital30+++++Nil1 hNil100NilNilNilNilNil1 hNil1830Nil++++++1 hNil100Nil+++++1 hNil1930+++++++++1 h++100Nil+++++++1 h++2030Nil+++++1 hNil100++++++1 h1 h1 h2130Nil++++1 h+100+++++1 hNil2230Nil++++++Nil1 hNil100Nil++++++Nil1 hNil2330Nil++++Nil1 h1 h100NilNil+++1 h1 h∗The severity of the neurotoxicity signs: +mild, ++moderate, and +++severe.


## 2.2.1. Protection Rate % of the Synthesized Compounds against PTZ-Induced Seizure

Protection rate % from PTZ-induced seizure was measured for the six synthesized compounds (18–23) along with the positive control, phenobarbital, at two dose levels (30 and 100 mg/kg). On the contrary, the negative control group received only 5% methylcellulose. Contrary to what has been reported [35], phenobarbital at the two tested doses, 30 and 100 mg/kg, showed 25% and 100% protection against PTZ-induced seizure, respectively (Figure 4). Compound 18 at 100 mg/kg displayed a protection rate of 58% (Figure 4), while at the lower dose, it was inactive. Insertion of the bromo group at C5 of the indole ring rendered compound 19 inactive at the two tested doses (Figure 4). On the contrary, chloro substitution at the same position as in compound 20 led to significant protection (40%) at the low dose, while no activity was observed for this compound at the higher dose (Figure 4). Hydroxymethylation of position 1 for Schiff bases 18 and 19 afforded compounds 21 and 22, respectively. These compounds demonstrated significant seizure protection rates at the low dose (>40%), while their bioactivity reduced at the higher doses. These results propose that manipulation of position 1 by polar functionality improves the anticonvulsant activity. Based on this, we tried to introduce the nonpolar motif through N-benzylation of the most potent compound 22 to furnish the more lipophilic compound 23. Being superior to the standard drug phenobarbitone in terms of seizure protection rate, compound 23 emerged as the most potent as it displayed 67% seizure protection at the low dose of 30 mg/kg and 58% at the higher dose of 100 mg/kg as shown in Figure 4.Figure 4
Protection rate of the synthesized Schiff bases (18–23) along with the standard drug phenobarbitone against PTZ-induced seizure.
(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(f)(g)Correlation between lipophilicity and anticonvulsant activity was reported [36–38]. For anticonvulsant agents to be effective, they have to attain adequate concentration in the brain through the efficient crossing of BBB. All compounds investigated here were found to have CLogP values (Table 1) above 2, which is an important feature for effective CNS penetrability [38]. It is worthnoting that the most efficacious compound 23 has a CLogP value of 6.952, which exceeds that of the other compounds. In this regard, the high potency for compound 23 could be partially explained based on its higher lipophilicity, which directly influences the CNS delivery.Table 1
Drug-like properties and docking energies of compounds 18–23.
CompoundCLogPMWaTPSAbHBAcHBDdNrotbeDocking energies (kcal/mol)Phenobarbitone1.41232.2475.27232−5.903183.445323.3970.56323−7.629194.30840270.57323−7.991204.158357.870.56323−7.902213.95835382424−8.357224.46143282424−8.662236.952492.461.77315−7.875aMolecular weight; btopological polar surface area; chydrogen bond acceptor; dhydrogen bond donor; enumber of rotatable bonds.


## 2.2.2. Effect of Synthesized Compounds on Latency and Duration of PTZ-Induced Seizure

The time in seconds of the onset of the seizure, expressed as the latency of convulsion, and the duration of the PTZ-induced seizure were obtained for the six synthesized compounds and phenobarbital at 30 and 100 mg/kg doses. As illustrated in Table2, compounds 18–23 increased the latency of convulsion with compound 23 exhibiting a significant delay on the onset of PTZ-induced seizures (1263 ± 501.2 sec) compared to the positive control (467.5 ± 56.41 sec) at 30 mg/kg dose. These results are consistent with those disclosed in the literature which described the influence of isatin-inspired compounds on latency time of convulsions [14]. Furthermore, except compound 20 at the low dose, all the synthesized Schiff bases were found effective in shortening the epileptic duration (Table 2) with significant effect observed for compounds 18 and 21–23. Compounds 18, 22, and 23 at low doses (30 mg/kg) were more effective than the standard drug at the same dose, pointing to their seizure protection ability at relatively lower doses. It is worthwhile to mention that these compounds displayed better protection at lower doses (30 mg/kg) rather than the higher doses (100 mg/kg) as shown in Table 2.Table 2
Effect of the synthesized compounds on latency and duration of PTZ-induced seizure.
CompoundDose (mg/kg)Time (sec.) of the latency of convulsions (MEN ± SEM)Duration (sec.) of convulsion (MEN ± SEM)Methylcellulose0.004 mL/g280.5 ± 54.06116 ± 12.99Phenobarbitone30467.5 ± 56.4158 ±10.68∗100NilNil1830313.3 ± 84.4734.25 ± 4.80∗∗∗100780 ± 243.762.50 ± 9.77∗1930539.3 ± 169.895.00 ± 27.54100494.8 ± 8.17982.75 ± 13.072030600.0 ± 73.48115.0 ± 5.00100675.0 ± 137.277.5 ± 10.312130429.0 ± 94.1964.50 ± 8.95∗100432.5 ± 124.755.00 ± 5.00∗∗2230513.5 ± 70.8946.00 ± 8.495∗∗100396.8 ± 78.0445.00 ± 0.00∗∗23301263 ± 501.2∗∗45.75 ± 9.903∗∗100329.8 ± 23.0164.25 ± 12.17∗Data analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s test (n = 4); ∗P<0.05, ∗∗P<0.01, and ∗∗∗P<0.001 when compared with the control group.


## 2.2.3. Effect of the Investigated Compounds on Neurological Signs of PTZ-Induced Seizure

The neurological signs and severity of the PTZ-induced seizure were observed for 1 hour after the administration of compounds 18–23 along with phenobarbitone. As shown in Table3, all candidate compounds demonstrated a reduction in PTZ-induced neurological signs of seizures. The most potent compound 23 was proved to be better than the standard drug in minimizing these signs at the dose (30 mg/kg).Table 3
Effect of synthesized compounds on neurological signs∗ of PTZ-induced seizure 1 hour after induction.
CompoundDose (mg\kg)Myoclonic jerksS-shape in the tailUpright positionHead noddingLoss of postural controlMuscle flaccidA tonic or clonicMethyl cellulose 5%0.004 mL/g++++++++++++++++++++Phenobarbital30+++++++++++100NilNilNilNilNilNilNil1830++++NilNil+++++100Nil++Nil+++++1930+++++++++++++++100+++++++++++++2030++++Nil+++++++++100+++++++++++++++2130+++++Nil++++100+++++Nil+++++2230++++++++++100++++++++++++++2330++NilNil++++100++++++NilNil∗The severity of the neurological signs: +mild, ++moderate, and +++severe.


## 2.2.4. Neurotoxicity of the Investigated Compounds

Neurotoxicity of compounds 18–23, along with the standard drug, was assessed for 1 hour after the induction of the seizure. To this end, compounds 18–23, together with phenobarbitone, exhibited CNS depressive effects such as somnolence and sleep after 1 hour of seizure induction, as depicted in Table4. While compounds 19 and 21 revealed signs of CNS toxicity such as lack of exploratory behavior and catalepsy, the most potent candidate 23 at 30 mg/kg displayed a similar pattern of neurological toxicity to the standard drug at the same tested dose.Table 4
Neurotoxicity∗ of synthesized compounds during 1 hour of induction.
CompoundDose (mg\kg)Circular or zigzag gaitAbnormal spread of legsAbnormal postureTremorLack of exploratory behaviorSomnolence or sleepStupor or catalepsyMethyl cellulose—+++++++NilNilNilPhenobarbital30+++++Nil1 hNil100NilNilNilNilNil1 hNil1830Nil++++++1 hNil100Nil+++++1 hNil1930+++++++++1 h++100Nil+++++++1 h++2030Nil+++++1 hNil100++++++1 h1 h1 h2130Nil++++1 h+100+++++1 hNil2230Nil++++++Nil1 hNil100Nil++++++Nil1 hNil2330Nil++++Nil1 h1 h100NilNil+++1 h1 h∗The severity of the neurotoxicity signs: +mild, ++moderate, and +++severe.


## 2.3. Molecular Modelling Studies

### 2.3.1. Docking on GABAA Receptor (3IP9)

GABA is the majorCNS inhibitory neurotransmitter involved in the pathophysiology of epilepsy [39]. Therapeutic agents acting through the modulation of the GABAA receptor have been reported to inhibit seizures in both experimental animals and humans [40]. It has been reported that PTZ mediates its convulsive action through direct inhibition of the GABAergic process in the CNS [41]. Since the synthesized compounds antagonized the convulsion induced by PTZ, it probably may exert its anticonvulsant activities through activation of GABAergic transmission in similar mechanisms of barbiturates such as phenobarbital [42]. Molecular docking is a powerful tool for investigating the potential action mode of biodynamically active molecules. Therefore molecular docking analysis has been carried out to assess the potential molecular interaction patterns of compounds 18–23 with the GABAA receptor. The docking energies (kcal/mol) of the synthesized compounds against phenobarbitone are summarized in Table 1. As shown in Table 1, compounds 18–23 exhibited lower docking energies ranging from −7.6 to −8.6 kcal/mol, which are relatively far less than the standard drug phenobarbitone (−5.903 kcal/mol). This could be partially explained by the formation of more stable complexes as a consequence of better positioning of these compounds in the active center of the receptor. While the relatively less active compound 22 displayed the lowest binding energy (−8.662 kcal/mol), the most potent compound 23 showed a binding energy of −7.875 kcal/mol. This could be rationalized by the relatively high hydrophobicity of compound 23 (CLogP = 6.952), which facilitates the penetration of 23 into the brain in high concentration levels. The 3D interaction of the GABAA receptor with phenobarbital and compound 23 is shown in Figure 5, indicating hydrophobic interaction of the isatin moiety, which is further augmented by deep longitudinal insertion of the benzyl group in the hydrophobic pocket. Such an interaction has been documented in the literature for potent anticonvulsant compounds proposing the necessity of aryl/alkyl hydrophobic group as key structural elements [43]. Thus, the superior activity of 23 appears to be due to the unique existence of the benzyl group which aid to (i) Hydrophobic interaction with the binding site; (ii) Increase CNS penetrability.Figure 5
3D interaction of the GABAA receptor with phenobarbital and compound 23; phenobarbitone: green color; compound 23: violet color.


### 2.3.2. Drug-Likeness Study

Prediction of ADMET properties of the titled compounds such as partition coefficient (CLogP), topological polar surface area (TPSA), and number of rotatable bonds (Nrotb), in addition to violations of Lipinski’s and Veber’s parameters, was performed using SwissADME server. As shown in Table1, all compounds were in complete agreement with Lipinski’s rule of five and Veber’s parameters. Thus, these compounds have positive drug-likeness such as good oral bioavailability and favorable CNS penetrability and hence could be envisioned as promising and potential leads for further investigations.


## 2.3.1. Docking on GABAA Receptor (3IP9)

GABA is the majorCNS inhibitory neurotransmitter involved in the pathophysiology of epilepsy [39]. Therapeutic agents acting through the modulation of the GABAA receptor have been reported to inhibit seizures in both experimental animals and humans [40]. It has been reported that PTZ mediates its convulsive action through direct inhibition of the GABAergic process in the CNS [41]. Since the synthesized compounds antagonized the convulsion induced by PTZ, it probably may exert its anticonvulsant activities through activation of GABAergic transmission in similar mechanisms of barbiturates such as phenobarbital [42]. Molecular docking is a powerful tool for investigating the potential action mode of biodynamically active molecules. Therefore molecular docking analysis has been carried out to assess the potential molecular interaction patterns of compounds 18–23 with the GABAA receptor. The docking energies (kcal/mol) of the synthesized compounds against phenobarbitone are summarized in Table 1. As shown in Table 1, compounds 18–23 exhibited lower docking energies ranging from −7.6 to −8.6 kcal/mol, which are relatively far less than the standard drug phenobarbitone (−5.903 kcal/mol). This could be partially explained by the formation of more stable complexes as a consequence of better positioning of these compounds in the active center of the receptor. While the relatively less active compound 22 displayed the lowest binding energy (−8.662 kcal/mol), the most potent compound 23 showed a binding energy of −7.875 kcal/mol. This could be rationalized by the relatively high hydrophobicity of compound 23 (CLogP = 6.952), which facilitates the penetration of 23 into the brain in high concentration levels. The 3D interaction of the GABAA receptor with phenobarbital and compound 23 is shown in Figure 5, indicating hydrophobic interaction of the isatin moiety, which is further augmented by deep longitudinal insertion of the benzyl group in the hydrophobic pocket. Such an interaction has been documented in the literature for potent anticonvulsant compounds proposing the necessity of aryl/alkyl hydrophobic group as key structural elements [43]. Thus, the superior activity of 23 appears to be due to the unique existence of the benzyl group which aid to (i) Hydrophobic interaction with the binding site; (ii) Increase CNS penetrability.Figure 5
3D interaction of the GABAA receptor with phenobarbital and compound 23; phenobarbitone: green color; compound 23: violet color.


## 2.3.2. Drug-Likeness Study

Prediction of ADMET properties of the titled compounds such as partition coefficient (CLogP), topological polar surface area (TPSA), and number of rotatable bonds (Nrotb), in addition to violations of Lipinski’s and Veber’s parameters, was performed using SwissADME server. As shown in Table1, all compounds were in complete agreement with Lipinski’s rule of five and Veber’s parameters. Thus, these compounds have positive drug-likeness such as good oral bioavailability and favorable CNS penetrability and hence could be envisioned as promising and potential leads for further investigations.


## 3. Experimental

### 3.1. General

The starting adamantane-1-carboxylic acid, isatins, and alkyl halides were commercially available from Sigma-Aldrich, USA. All solvents and reagents were of analytical grade and were used without further purification. Precoated silica gel TLC plates were used to monitor reaction progress; a UV lamp (254 nm) was used to visualize the spots. The purity of synthesized compounds was checked by TLC using ethyl acetate and n-hexane (1 : 1) as the mobile phase. Melting points were determined on Electrothermal Karl kolb (scientific technical supplier, Germany) and were uncorrected. Infrared (IR) spectra (SupplementaryS1) were recorded as KBr disk using Shimadzu IR apparatus, University of Khartoum, Sudan, and data are given in ῡ (cm−1). NMR spectra (Supplementary S2) were determined utilizing either DMSO-d6 or CDCl3 as the solvent and recorded on Bruker Avance 111 NMR Spectrophotometer operating at 400 MHz for 1H and at 100 MHz for 13C NMR at the research center, College of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Egypt.


### 3.2. Methods

#### 3.2.1. Synthesis of Adamantane-1-Carboxylic Acid Methyl Ester (10) and Adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (11)

Compounds 10 and 11 were synthesized according to the reported procedure [27, 28].Adamantane-1-carboxylic acid methyl ester (10): M. P: 45°C, Lit (46) [27], yield%: 85, physical appearance: white, characteristic odor crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3431 (C = O overtone), 2906 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1730 (C = O), 1238 (C-O stretching).Adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (11): M. P: 160°C, yield%: 98, physical appearance: white, odorless crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3483 (NH stretching), 3328 and 3280 (NH2 stretching), 2902 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1618 (amide C = O stretching).


#### 3.2.2. Synthesis of 1-Hydroxymethylisatins (15) and (16)

Compounds 15 and 16 were synthesized according to the reported procedure [29].Synthesis of 1-(hydroxymethyl)indoline-2,3-dione (15): M. P: 100–104°C, yield%: 50, physical appearance: orange, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3446 (broad band OH stretching), 2979 (ArH stretching), 2921 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1733 (Ar-C = O), 1612, 1469 (aromatic C = C stretching), 1101 (C-O stretching).Synthesis of 5-bromo-1-(hydroxymethyl)indoline-2,3-dione (16): M. P: 105°C, yield%: 50, physical appearance: pale orange, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3444 (broad band OH stretching), 2987 (ArH stretching), 2920 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1737 (Ar-C = O), 1618, 1461 (aromatic C = C stretching), 1103 (C-O stretching).


#### 3.2.3. Synthesis of 1-Benzyl-5-bromoindoline-2,3-dione (17)

Compound 17 was synthesized according to the previously reported procedure [29].M. P: 130°C, yield %: 62, physical appearance: red, odorless crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3440 (C = O overtone), 3091 (ArH stretching), 2916 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1735 (Ar-C = O), 1604, 1467, 1438 (aromatic C = C stretching).


#### 3.2.4. Synthesis of Target Compounds 18–23

The designed Schiff bases 18–23 were obtained following the reported method [11]. Equimolar quantities (0.003 moles) of appropriate isatin and adamantane-1-carbohydrazide were dissolved in 20 mL of warm ethanol and refluxed for 12 hours in the presence of 4 drops of glacial acetic acid. The reaction was monitored for completion by TLC, then the solvent was evaporated, and the solid product was obtained and recrystallized from the appropriate solvent.(Z)-N′-(2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (18): M. P: >300°C, yield %: 73, physical appearance: yellow, odorless crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3182 (NH stretching), 2908 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1691 (C = ONHN stretching), 1614, 1525, 1463 (aromatic C = C stretching). 1H NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 1.6–2.05 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 7.61–7.63 (m, 1H, ArH), 7.64–7.74 (m, 1H, ArH), 7.75–8.14 (m, 1H, ArH), 8.20–8.22 (m, 1H, ArH), 9.02 (brs, 1H, ArNHCO), 9.83 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). 13C NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 39.14, 39.70, 39.97, 40.25, 40.53, 40.81 (adamantane carbons), 59.22 (-CCONH), 123.98, 127.37, 129.01, 133.75, 140.93 (Ar-C), 161.15 (NHCO).(Z)-N′-(5-bromo-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (19): M. P: >300°C, yield%: 60, physical appearance: yellow, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3269 (CONH stretching), 3213 (NNH stretching), 3039 (ArH stretching), 2902 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1706 (CONH) 1681 (CONHN stretching), 1616, 1519, 1460 (aromatic C=C stretching). 1H NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 1.73–2.05 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 6.93 (s, 1H, ArH), 7.56–7.64 (m, 2H, ArH), 11.44 (brs, 1H, ArNHCO), 13.28 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). 13C NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 39.15, 39.71, 39.98, 40.26, 40.54, 40.81 (adamantane carbons), 47.91 (-CCONH), 110.87, 120.72, 122.62, 128.93, 130.03, 148.51 (Ar-C).(Z)-N′-(5-chloro-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (20): M. P: >300°C, yield%: 82°C, physical appearance: deep yellow, odorless crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3263 (CONH stretching), 3209 (NNH stretching), 3047 (ArH stretching) 2910 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1697 (CONHN stretching), 1618, 1515, 1458 (aromatic C=C stretching).(Z)-N′-(1-(hydroxymethyl)-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (21): M. P: 220°C, yield%: 67, physical appearance: pale orange, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3263 (broad band OH stretching), 3037 (ArH stretching), 2904 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1741 (CONH) 1660 (C = ONHN stretching), 1614, 1515, 1452 (aromatic C=C stretching), 1344 (C-O stretching). 1H NMR-DMSO-d6, CDCl3: δ ppm 1.64–1.94 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 3.94 (s, 2H, ArNCH2), 6.45 (d, J = 12, 1H, ArH), 7.06–7.27 (m, 2H, ArH), 7.50–7.63 (m, 1H, ArH), 8.89 (brs, 1H, CH2OH), 10.34 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). 13C NMR-DMSO-d6, CDCl3: δ ppm 36.04, 38.33, 38.51, 39.06, 40.10, 40.31 (adamantane carbons), 51.02 (-CCONH), 73.34 (NCH2OH), 176.30 (ArNCO). MS, Rel. Int (%): 206 (5%); 177(5%); 163 (5%); 135(100%); 107 (12%); 93 (20%); 91 (5%); 79 (18%); 77 (6%); 67 (6%); 41 (5%).(Z)-N′-(5-bromo-1-(hydroxymethyl)-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (22): M. P: 210°C, yield%: 47, physical appearance: yellow, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3255 (broad band OH stretching), 2904 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1743 (CONH) 1660 (CONHN stretching), 1615, 1514, 1452 (aromatic C=C stretching), 1344 (C-O stretching). 1H NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 1.6–2.1 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 3.58 (s, 2H, ArNCH2), 6.51 (d, J = 12, 1H, ArH), 7.26–7.29 (d, J = 12, 1H, ArH), 7.67 (s, 1H, ArH), 8.74 (brs, 1H, CH2OH), 10.67 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). MS, Rel. Int (%): 206 (5%); 177(5%); 163 (5%); 135(100%); 107 (12%); 93 (20%); 91 (5%); 79 (18%); 77 (6%); 67 (6%); 41 (5%).(Z)-N′-(1-benzyl-5-bromo-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (23): M. P: 300°C, yield %: 75, physical appearance: yellow, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3249 (NH stretching), 3047 (ArH stretching), 2906 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1699 (CONHN stretching), 1608, 1514, 1467 (aromatic C = C stretching). 1H NMR-CDCl3: δ ppm 1.80–2.13 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 4.97 (s, 2H, ArNCH2), 6.65 (d, J = 8, 1H, ArH), 7.28–7.40 (m, 6H, ArH), 7.97 (s, 1H, ArH), 13.34 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). 13C NMR-CDCl3: δ ppm 27.95, 36.35, 38.90, 41.28 (adamantane carbons), 43.56 (ArNCH2), 111.38, 116.57, 121.69, 124.76, 127.19, 128.22, 129.10, 133.60, 134.38, 141.16 (Ar-C), 135.21 (ArC=N), 161.25 (NHCO), 175.29 (ArNCO).


#### 3.2.5. Anticonvulsant Activity

Experimental Animals. Wistar albino rats of both sexes, weighing about 70–130 g, were housed under standard environmental conditions of temperature (12 hours light/dark cycle; 24 ± 2°C; 30–70% humidity) and had ad libitum access to purified water and food. All animals fasted overnight prior to the experiment with free access to water. Animals were adapted to the laboratory condition for a week before initiating the experiments. Prior to starting the experiment, all experimental animal protocols were approved by the Institutional Animal Ethical Committee (IAEC) of Faculty of Pharmacy, Omdurman Islamic University, constituted in accordance with the guidelines of the Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA).Chemicals. Standard convulsive agents, PTZ was obtained from Sigma-Aldrich (St. Louis, MO, USA), and phenobarbital was obtained from Shanghai Pharmaceutical Company (Khartoum, Sudan).Experimental Protocol. This investigation was performed following the Antiepileptic Drug Development Program Protocol (ADDP) [44]. Six synthetic compounds (18–23) were investigated for anticonvulsant activity in albino rats, which were divided into fifteen groups (N = 4). All groups were injected subcutaneously in a loose fold of skin on the back of the neck with PTZ (70 mg/kg) as a chemical epileptic inducer. In the first group, rats were orally administered methylcellulose 5% as the vehicle control (negative control), and in the second and third groups, rats were orally (p. o) administered phenobarbital 30 and 100 mg/kg, respectively, as reference anticonvulsant drugs for comparison. The remaining groups were orally (p. o) administered synthetic compounds each in different doses (30 and 100 mg/kg) one hour before s. c PTZ 70 mg/kg. Animals were placed in isolation cages to minimize stress and then were observed for 30 min, 1, 4, and 24 hours for signs of neurological deficits and anticonvulsant activities.Measuring of Anticonvulsant Activities. Protection rate % against PTZ-induced seizure was measured by the following equation: protection rate % = NC – NT/NC × 100, where NC is the number of seizure attacks during 1 hour after seizure induction in the control group and NT is the number of seizure attacks during 1 hour after seizure induction in the treated group. Furthermore, convulsion latency was measured as the onset time (seconds) of convulsion after seizure induction. Moreover, the duration of convulsion (seconds) was calculated by following the formula, time after completion of convulsion − the onset time of convulsion.Statistical Analysis. Data were expressed as protection %, seizure duration, and latency time in seconds ± SEM and analyzed by two-tailed Student’s test to determine the significance of the difference between the control group and rats treated with the test compounds. The difference in results was considered significant when the P value <0.05. All statistical calculations were carried out using GraphPad Prism 5 (GraphPad Software Inc., San Diego, CA, USA) [45].


#### 3.2.6. Computational Studies

Molecular Docking. The 3D structure of the GABAA receptor was downloaded from the protein data bank (PDB ID: 3IP9). The energy of this target was minimized via Cresset Flare software [46]. The chemical structures of compounds were drawn via ChemDraw software, and the 3D structure was generated in mol2 with Open Babel software [47]. The default settings of Cresset Flare software were used for the docking process [46].Drug-Likeness Studies. The prediction of ADMET properties, the number of rotatable bonds, topological polar surface area (TPSA), and the number of hydrogen bond donors (HBD) and acceptors (HBA) for all synthesized compounds were estimated using SwissADME (available at http://www.swissadme.ch.com).


## 3.1. General

The starting adamantane-1-carboxylic acid, isatins, and alkyl halides were commercially available from Sigma-Aldrich, USA. All solvents and reagents were of analytical grade and were used without further purification. Precoated silica gel TLC plates were used to monitor reaction progress; a UV lamp (254 nm) was used to visualize the spots. The purity of synthesized compounds was checked by TLC using ethyl acetate and n-hexane (1 : 1) as the mobile phase. Melting points were determined on Electrothermal Karl kolb (scientific technical supplier, Germany) and were uncorrected. Infrared (IR) spectra (SupplementaryS1) were recorded as KBr disk using Shimadzu IR apparatus, University of Khartoum, Sudan, and data are given in ῡ (cm−1). NMR spectra (Supplementary S2) were determined utilizing either DMSO-d6 or CDCl3 as the solvent and recorded on Bruker Avance 111 NMR Spectrophotometer operating at 400 MHz for 1H and at 100 MHz for 13C NMR at the research center, College of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Egypt.


## 3.2. Methods

### 3.2.1. Synthesis of Adamantane-1-Carboxylic Acid Methyl Ester (10) and Adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (11)

Compounds 10 and 11 were synthesized according to the reported procedure [27, 28].Adamantane-1-carboxylic acid methyl ester (10): M. P: 45°C, Lit (46) [27], yield%: 85, physical appearance: white, characteristic odor crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3431 (C = O overtone), 2906 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1730 (C = O), 1238 (C-O stretching).Adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (11): M. P: 160°C, yield%: 98, physical appearance: white, odorless crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3483 (NH stretching), 3328 and 3280 (NH2 stretching), 2902 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1618 (amide C = O stretching).


### 3.2.2. Synthesis of 1-Hydroxymethylisatins (15) and (16)

Compounds 15 and 16 were synthesized according to the reported procedure [29].Synthesis of 1-(hydroxymethyl)indoline-2,3-dione (15): M. P: 100–104°C, yield%: 50, physical appearance: orange, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3446 (broad band OH stretching), 2979 (ArH stretching), 2921 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1733 (Ar-C = O), 1612, 1469 (aromatic C = C stretching), 1101 (C-O stretching).Synthesis of 5-bromo-1-(hydroxymethyl)indoline-2,3-dione (16): M. P: 105°C, yield%: 50, physical appearance: pale orange, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3444 (broad band OH stretching), 2987 (ArH stretching), 2920 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1737 (Ar-C = O), 1618, 1461 (aromatic C = C stretching), 1103 (C-O stretching).


### 3.2.3. Synthesis of 1-Benzyl-5-bromoindoline-2,3-dione (17)

Compound 17 was synthesized according to the previously reported procedure [29].M. P: 130°C, yield %: 62, physical appearance: red, odorless crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3440 (C = O overtone), 3091 (ArH stretching), 2916 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1735 (Ar-C = O), 1604, 1467, 1438 (aromatic C = C stretching).


### 3.2.4. Synthesis of Target Compounds 18–23

The designed Schiff bases 18–23 were obtained following the reported method [11]. Equimolar quantities (0.003 moles) of appropriate isatin and adamantane-1-carbohydrazide were dissolved in 20 mL of warm ethanol and refluxed for 12 hours in the presence of 4 drops of glacial acetic acid. The reaction was monitored for completion by TLC, then the solvent was evaporated, and the solid product was obtained and recrystallized from the appropriate solvent.(Z)-N′-(2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (18): M. P: >300°C, yield %: 73, physical appearance: yellow, odorless crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3182 (NH stretching), 2908 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1691 (C = ONHN stretching), 1614, 1525, 1463 (aromatic C = C stretching). 1H NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 1.6–2.05 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 7.61–7.63 (m, 1H, ArH), 7.64–7.74 (m, 1H, ArH), 7.75–8.14 (m, 1H, ArH), 8.20–8.22 (m, 1H, ArH), 9.02 (brs, 1H, ArNHCO), 9.83 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). 13C NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 39.14, 39.70, 39.97, 40.25, 40.53, 40.81 (adamantane carbons), 59.22 (-CCONH), 123.98, 127.37, 129.01, 133.75, 140.93 (Ar-C), 161.15 (NHCO).(Z)-N′-(5-bromo-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (19): M. P: >300°C, yield%: 60, physical appearance: yellow, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3269 (CONH stretching), 3213 (NNH stretching), 3039 (ArH stretching), 2902 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1706 (CONH) 1681 (CONHN stretching), 1616, 1519, 1460 (aromatic C=C stretching). 1H NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 1.73–2.05 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 6.93 (s, 1H, ArH), 7.56–7.64 (m, 2H, ArH), 11.44 (brs, 1H, ArNHCO), 13.28 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). 13C NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 39.15, 39.71, 39.98, 40.26, 40.54, 40.81 (adamantane carbons), 47.91 (-CCONH), 110.87, 120.72, 122.62, 128.93, 130.03, 148.51 (Ar-C).(Z)-N′-(5-chloro-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (20): M. P: >300°C, yield%: 82°C, physical appearance: deep yellow, odorless crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3263 (CONH stretching), 3209 (NNH stretching), 3047 (ArH stretching) 2910 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1697 (CONHN stretching), 1618, 1515, 1458 (aromatic C=C stretching).(Z)-N′-(1-(hydroxymethyl)-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (21): M. P: 220°C, yield%: 67, physical appearance: pale orange, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3263 (broad band OH stretching), 3037 (ArH stretching), 2904 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1741 (CONH) 1660 (C = ONHN stretching), 1614, 1515, 1452 (aromatic C=C stretching), 1344 (C-O stretching). 1H NMR-DMSO-d6, CDCl3: δ ppm 1.64–1.94 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 3.94 (s, 2H, ArNCH2), 6.45 (d, J = 12, 1H, ArH), 7.06–7.27 (m, 2H, ArH), 7.50–7.63 (m, 1H, ArH), 8.89 (brs, 1H, CH2OH), 10.34 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). 13C NMR-DMSO-d6, CDCl3: δ ppm 36.04, 38.33, 38.51, 39.06, 40.10, 40.31 (adamantane carbons), 51.02 (-CCONH), 73.34 (NCH2OH), 176.30 (ArNCO). MS, Rel. Int (%): 206 (5%); 177(5%); 163 (5%); 135(100%); 107 (12%); 93 (20%); 91 (5%); 79 (18%); 77 (6%); 67 (6%); 41 (5%).(Z)-N′-(5-bromo-1-(hydroxymethyl)-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (22): M. P: 210°C, yield%: 47, physical appearance: yellow, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3255 (broad band OH stretching), 2904 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1743 (CONH) 1660 (CONHN stretching), 1615, 1514, 1452 (aromatic C=C stretching), 1344 (C-O stretching). 1H NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 1.6–2.1 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 3.58 (s, 2H, ArNCH2), 6.51 (d, J = 12, 1H, ArH), 7.26–7.29 (d, J = 12, 1H, ArH), 7.67 (s, 1H, ArH), 8.74 (brs, 1H, CH2OH), 10.67 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). MS, Rel. Int (%): 206 (5%); 177(5%); 163 (5%); 135(100%); 107 (12%); 93 (20%); 91 (5%); 79 (18%); 77 (6%); 67 (6%); 41 (5%).(Z)-N′-(1-benzyl-5-bromo-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (23): M. P: 300°C, yield %: 75, physical appearance: yellow, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3249 (NH stretching), 3047 (ArH stretching), 2906 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1699 (CONHN stretching), 1608, 1514, 1467 (aromatic C = C stretching). 1H NMR-CDCl3: δ ppm 1.80–2.13 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 4.97 (s, 2H, ArNCH2), 6.65 (d, J = 8, 1H, ArH), 7.28–7.40 (m, 6H, ArH), 7.97 (s, 1H, ArH), 13.34 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). 13C NMR-CDCl3: δ ppm 27.95, 36.35, 38.90, 41.28 (adamantane carbons), 43.56 (ArNCH2), 111.38, 116.57, 121.69, 124.76, 127.19, 128.22, 129.10, 133.60, 134.38, 141.16 (Ar-C), 135.21 (ArC=N), 161.25 (NHCO), 175.29 (ArNCO).


### 3.2.5. Anticonvulsant Activity

Experimental Animals. Wistar albino rats of both sexes, weighing about 70–130 g, were housed under standard environmental conditions of temperature (12 hours light/dark cycle; 24 ± 2°C; 30–70% humidity) and had ad libitum access to purified water and food. All animals fasted overnight prior to the experiment with free access to water. Animals were adapted to the laboratory condition for a week before initiating the experiments. Prior to starting the experiment, all experimental animal protocols were approved by the Institutional Animal Ethical Committee (IAEC) of Faculty of Pharmacy, Omdurman Islamic University, constituted in accordance with the guidelines of the Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA).Chemicals. Standard convulsive agents, PTZ was obtained from Sigma-Aldrich (St. Louis, MO, USA), and phenobarbital was obtained from Shanghai Pharmaceutical Company (Khartoum, Sudan).Experimental Protocol. This investigation was performed following the Antiepileptic Drug Development Program Protocol (ADDP) [44]. Six synthetic compounds (18–23) were investigated for anticonvulsant activity in albino rats, which were divided into fifteen groups (N = 4). All groups were injected subcutaneously in a loose fold of skin on the back of the neck with PTZ (70 mg/kg) as a chemical epileptic inducer. In the first group, rats were orally administered methylcellulose 5% as the vehicle control (negative control), and in the second and third groups, rats were orally (p. o) administered phenobarbital 30 and 100 mg/kg, respectively, as reference anticonvulsant drugs for comparison. The remaining groups were orally (p. o) administered synthetic compounds each in different doses (30 and 100 mg/kg) one hour before s. c PTZ 70 mg/kg. Animals were placed in isolation cages to minimize stress and then were observed for 30 min, 1, 4, and 24 hours for signs of neurological deficits and anticonvulsant activities.Measuring of Anticonvulsant Activities. Protection rate % against PTZ-induced seizure was measured by the following equation: protection rate % = NC – NT/NC × 100, where NC is the number of seizure attacks during 1 hour after seizure induction in the control group and NT is the number of seizure attacks during 1 hour after seizure induction in the treated group. Furthermore, convulsion latency was measured as the onset time (seconds) of convulsion after seizure induction. Moreover, the duration of convulsion (seconds) was calculated by following the formula, time after completion of convulsion − the onset time of convulsion.Statistical Analysis. Data were expressed as protection %, seizure duration, and latency time in seconds ± SEM and analyzed by two-tailed Student’s test to determine the significance of the difference between the control group and rats treated with the test compounds. The difference in results was considered significant when the P value <0.05. All statistical calculations were carried out using GraphPad Prism 5 (GraphPad Software Inc., San Diego, CA, USA) [45].


### 3.2.6. Computational Studies

Molecular Docking. The 3D structure of the GABAA receptor was downloaded from the protein data bank (PDB ID: 3IP9). The energy of this target was minimized via Cresset Flare software [46]. The chemical structures of compounds were drawn via ChemDraw software, and the 3D structure was generated in mol2 with Open Babel software [47]. The default settings of Cresset Flare software were used for the docking process [46].Drug-Likeness Studies. The prediction of ADMET properties, the number of rotatable bonds, topological polar surface area (TPSA), and the number of hydrogen bond donors (HBD) and acceptors (HBA) for all synthesized compounds were estimated using SwissADME (available at http://www.swissadme.ch.com).


## 3.2.1. Synthesis of Adamantane-1-Carboxylic Acid Methyl Ester (10) and Adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (11)

Compounds 10 and 11 were synthesized according to the reported procedure [27, 28].Adamantane-1-carboxylic acid methyl ester (10): M. P: 45°C, Lit (46) [27], yield%: 85, physical appearance: white, characteristic odor crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3431 (C = O overtone), 2906 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1730 (C = O), 1238 (C-O stretching).Adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (11): M. P: 160°C, yield%: 98, physical appearance: white, odorless crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3483 (NH stretching), 3328 and 3280 (NH2 stretching), 2902 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1618 (amide C = O stretching).


## 3.2.2. Synthesis of 1-Hydroxymethylisatins (15) and (16)

Compounds 15 and 16 were synthesized according to the reported procedure [29].Synthesis of 1-(hydroxymethyl)indoline-2,3-dione (15): M. P: 100–104°C, yield%: 50, physical appearance: orange, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3446 (broad band OH stretching), 2979 (ArH stretching), 2921 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1733 (Ar-C = O), 1612, 1469 (aromatic C = C stretching), 1101 (C-O stretching).Synthesis of 5-bromo-1-(hydroxymethyl)indoline-2,3-dione (16): M. P: 105°C, yield%: 50, physical appearance: pale orange, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3444 (broad band OH stretching), 2987 (ArH stretching), 2920 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1737 (Ar-C = O), 1618, 1461 (aromatic C = C stretching), 1103 (C-O stretching).


## 3.2.3. Synthesis of 1-Benzyl-5-bromoindoline-2,3-dione (17)

Compound 17 was synthesized according to the previously reported procedure [29].M. P: 130°C, yield %: 62, physical appearance: red, odorless crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3440 (C = O overtone), 3091 (ArH stretching), 2916 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1735 (Ar-C = O), 1604, 1467, 1438 (aromatic C = C stretching).


## 3.2.4. Synthesis of Target Compounds 18–23

The designed Schiff bases 18–23 were obtained following the reported method [11]. Equimolar quantities (0.003 moles) of appropriate isatin and adamantane-1-carbohydrazide were dissolved in 20 mL of warm ethanol and refluxed for 12 hours in the presence of 4 drops of glacial acetic acid. The reaction was monitored for completion by TLC, then the solvent was evaporated, and the solid product was obtained and recrystallized from the appropriate solvent.(Z)-N′-(2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (18): M. P: >300°C, yield %: 73, physical appearance: yellow, odorless crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3182 (NH stretching), 2908 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1691 (C = ONHN stretching), 1614, 1525, 1463 (aromatic C = C stretching). 1H NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 1.6–2.05 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 7.61–7.63 (m, 1H, ArH), 7.64–7.74 (m, 1H, ArH), 7.75–8.14 (m, 1H, ArH), 8.20–8.22 (m, 1H, ArH), 9.02 (brs, 1H, ArNHCO), 9.83 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). 13C NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 39.14, 39.70, 39.97, 40.25, 40.53, 40.81 (adamantane carbons), 59.22 (-CCONH), 123.98, 127.37, 129.01, 133.75, 140.93 (Ar-C), 161.15 (NHCO).(Z)-N′-(5-bromo-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (19): M. P: >300°C, yield%: 60, physical appearance: yellow, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3269 (CONH stretching), 3213 (NNH stretching), 3039 (ArH stretching), 2902 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1706 (CONH) 1681 (CONHN stretching), 1616, 1519, 1460 (aromatic C=C stretching). 1H NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 1.73–2.05 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 6.93 (s, 1H, ArH), 7.56–7.64 (m, 2H, ArH), 11.44 (brs, 1H, ArNHCO), 13.28 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). 13C NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 39.15, 39.71, 39.98, 40.26, 40.54, 40.81 (adamantane carbons), 47.91 (-CCONH), 110.87, 120.72, 122.62, 128.93, 130.03, 148.51 (Ar-C).(Z)-N′-(5-chloro-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (20): M. P: >300°C, yield%: 82°C, physical appearance: deep yellow, odorless crystal, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3263 (CONH stretching), 3209 (NNH stretching), 3047 (ArH stretching) 2910 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1697 (CONHN stretching), 1618, 1515, 1458 (aromatic C=C stretching).(Z)-N′-(1-(hydroxymethyl)-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (21): M. P: 220°C, yield%: 67, physical appearance: pale orange, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3263 (broad band OH stretching), 3037 (ArH stretching), 2904 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1741 (CONH) 1660 (C = ONHN stretching), 1614, 1515, 1452 (aromatic C=C stretching), 1344 (C-O stretching). 1H NMR-DMSO-d6, CDCl3: δ ppm 1.64–1.94 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 3.94 (s, 2H, ArNCH2), 6.45 (d, J = 12, 1H, ArH), 7.06–7.27 (m, 2H, ArH), 7.50–7.63 (m, 1H, ArH), 8.89 (brs, 1H, CH2OH), 10.34 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). 13C NMR-DMSO-d6, CDCl3: δ ppm 36.04, 38.33, 38.51, 39.06, 40.10, 40.31 (adamantane carbons), 51.02 (-CCONH), 73.34 (NCH2OH), 176.30 (ArNCO). MS, Rel. Int (%): 206 (5%); 177(5%); 163 (5%); 135(100%); 107 (12%); 93 (20%); 91 (5%); 79 (18%); 77 (6%); 67 (6%); 41 (5%).(Z)-N′-(5-bromo-1-(hydroxymethyl)-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (22): M. P: 210°C, yield%: 47, physical appearance: yellow, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3255 (broad band OH stretching), 2904 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1743 (CONH) 1660 (CONHN stretching), 1615, 1514, 1452 (aromatic C=C stretching), 1344 (C-O stretching). 1H NMR-DMSO-d6: δ ppm 1.6–2.1 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 3.58 (s, 2H, ArNCH2), 6.51 (d, J = 12, 1H, ArH), 7.26–7.29 (d, J = 12, 1H, ArH), 7.67 (s, 1H, ArH), 8.74 (brs, 1H, CH2OH), 10.67 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). MS, Rel. Int (%): 206 (5%); 177(5%); 163 (5%); 135(100%); 107 (12%); 93 (20%); 91 (5%); 79 (18%); 77 (6%); 67 (6%); 41 (5%).(Z)-N′-(1-benzyl-5-bromo-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene) adamantane-1-carbohydrazide (23): M. P: 300°C, yield %: 75, physical appearance: yellow, odorless powder, and IR: ῡ cm−1 3249 (NH stretching), 3047 (ArH stretching), 2906 (aliphatic C-H stretching), 1699 (CONHN stretching), 1608, 1514, 1467 (aromatic C = C stretching). 1H NMR-CDCl3: δ ppm 1.80–2.13 (m, 15H, adamantane moiety hydrogens), 4.97 (s, 2H, ArNCH2), 6.65 (d, J = 8, 1H, ArH), 7.28–7.40 (m, 6H, ArH), 7.97 (s, 1H, ArH), 13.34 (brs, 1H, -CONHN). 13C NMR-CDCl3: δ ppm 27.95, 36.35, 38.90, 41.28 (adamantane carbons), 43.56 (ArNCH2), 111.38, 116.57, 121.69, 124.76, 127.19, 128.22, 129.10, 133.60, 134.38, 141.16 (Ar-C), 135.21 (ArC=N), 161.25 (NHCO), 175.29 (ArNCO).


## 3.2.5. Anticonvulsant Activity

Experimental Animals. Wistar albino rats of both sexes, weighing about 70–130 g, were housed under standard environmental conditions of temperature (12 hours light/dark cycle; 24 ± 2°C; 30–70% humidity) and had ad libitum access to purified water and food. All animals fasted overnight prior to the experiment with free access to water. Animals were adapted to the laboratory condition for a week before initiating the experiments. Prior to starting the experiment, all experimental animal protocols were approved by the Institutional Animal Ethical Committee (IAEC) of Faculty of Pharmacy, Omdurman Islamic University, constituted in accordance with the guidelines of the Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA).Chemicals. Standard convulsive agents, PTZ was obtained from Sigma-Aldrich (St. Louis, MO, USA), and phenobarbital was obtained from Shanghai Pharmaceutical Company (Khartoum, Sudan).Experimental Protocol. This investigation was performed following the Antiepileptic Drug Development Program Protocol (ADDP) [44]. Six synthetic compounds (18–23) were investigated for anticonvulsant activity in albino rats, which were divided into fifteen groups (N = 4). All groups were injected subcutaneously in a loose fold of skin on the back of the neck with PTZ (70 mg/kg) as a chemical epileptic inducer. In the first group, rats were orally administered methylcellulose 5% as the vehicle control (negative control), and in the second and third groups, rats were orally (p. o) administered phenobarbital 30 and 100 mg/kg, respectively, as reference anticonvulsant drugs for comparison. The remaining groups were orally (p. o) administered synthetic compounds each in different doses (30 and 100 mg/kg) one hour before s. c PTZ 70 mg/kg. Animals were placed in isolation cages to minimize stress and then were observed for 30 min, 1, 4, and 24 hours for signs of neurological deficits and anticonvulsant activities.Measuring of Anticonvulsant Activities. Protection rate % against PTZ-induced seizure was measured by the following equation: protection rate % = NC – NT/NC × 100, where NC is the number of seizure attacks during 1 hour after seizure induction in the control group and NT is the number of seizure attacks during 1 hour after seizure induction in the treated group. Furthermore, convulsion latency was measured as the onset time (seconds) of convulsion after seizure induction. Moreover, the duration of convulsion (seconds) was calculated by following the formula, time after completion of convulsion − the onset time of convulsion.Statistical Analysis. Data were expressed as protection %, seizure duration, and latency time in seconds ± SEM and analyzed by two-tailed Student’s test to determine the significance of the difference between the control group and rats treated with the test compounds. The difference in results was considered significant when the P value <0.05. All statistical calculations were carried out using GraphPad Prism 5 (GraphPad Software Inc., San Diego, CA, USA) [45].


## 3.2.6. Computational Studies

Molecular Docking. The 3D structure of the GABAA receptor was downloaded from the protein data bank (PDB ID: 3IP9). The energy of this target was minimized via Cresset Flare software [46]. The chemical structures of compounds were drawn via ChemDraw software, and the 3D structure was generated in mol2 with Open Babel software [47]. The default settings of Cresset Flare software were used for the docking process [46].Drug-Likeness Studies. The prediction of ADMET properties, the number of rotatable bonds, topological polar surface area (TPSA), and the number of hydrogen bond donors (HBD) and acceptors (HBA) for all synthesized compounds were estimated using SwissADME (available at http://www.swissadme.ch.com).


## 4. Conclusion

In the present work, six adamantane-isatin conjugates (18–23) were synthesized with the aim of investigating their anticonvulsant activity. Compound 23 was the most efficacious and provided significant protection against PTZ-induced seizure with minimal neurotoxicity. Molecular docking studies suggested GABAA receptor as a potential target, and in silico ADME screening revealed that the pharmaceutical properties of compound 23 are within the specified limit.



---

*Source: 6659156-2021-01-25.xml*