Synthesis and discovery of novel 1,2,3-triazole based cabotegravir derivatives with potent anticancer activity

•28 Novel 1,2,3-triazole based cabotegravir derivatives were designed and synthesized.•The compounds exhibited anti-proliferative activity against several cancer cell lines.•Compounds KJ9 and KJ23 demonstrated the most pronounced effects.•Compound KJ9 and KJ23 induced cell apoptosis, elevated ROS, altered key proteins expressions.•KJ9 and KJ23 have rigid planar structures to intercalate into DNA and induce DNA damage.