Abstract
Objective: To compile data from the scientific literature on the main indole compounds with anticancer potential developed in recent years. Methods: We used the following databases: PubMed, Science Direct, SciFinder and Bentham Science, in the period from 2007 to 2020, with the descriptors of AND anticancer indicators. The eligible studies portrayed in the research theme, published in english with full text available. Results: Research has shown that indoles are compounds that have a potent activity against several tumor strains (MDA-MB-231; HL-60; CCRF-CEM; K-562, MOLT-4; RPMI-8226 and among others) with inhibition of different mechanisms responsible for the maintenance or spread of the neoplasm (Inhibition of microtubule polymerization; inhibition of topoisomerase I and intercalation with tumor cell DNA) presenting varied chemical structures, from indoles replaced with simplified structures, to hybrids molecular. Additionally, the inhibitory concentration 50 (IC50) showed compounds with inhibition on the nanomolar scale and an excellent selectivity index, representing a promising class. Final considerations: This study made a survey of the main indolic hits, capable of generating new lead compounds for the development of drugs with the objective of advancing research for the production of new antineoplastic agents, with greater efficiency and less incidence of side effects.