Synthesis of novel glutarimide derivatives via the Michael addition of (hetero)aromatic thiols: pronounced effect of sulfur oxidation on cytotoxicity towards multiple myeloma cell lines

2-Methylidenepiperidine-2,6-dione was employed as a substrate in the thio-Michael addition of a series of (hetero)-aromatic thiols. Oxidation of the resulting (hetero)arylthio derivatives with Oxone® gave the corresponding sulfones. Testing of the latter against multiple myeloma cell lines MOLP-8 and KMS-12-PE alongside with selected precursor sulfides confirmed the earlier observed significantly higher cytotoxicity of sulfones.