A series of novel DHA derivatives characterized by 10-β-aryl substitution was synthesized.
Novel compounds were more potent than positive control adriamycin against MDR cancer cells.
P-gp-overexpressed MCF-7/Adr cells revealed collateral sensitivity towards novel compounds.
MDCK-MDR1 assay indicated 3d and 5c could not be pumped by P-gp.
Compound 5c aroused cell cycle arrest at G1 phase in MCF-7 and MCF-7/Adr cells.