Abstract Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-I (PARP-1) enzyme is involved in maintaining DNA integrity and programmed cell death. A virtual screening of commercial libraries led to the identification of five novel scaffolds with inhibitory profile in the low nanomolar range. A hit-to- lead optimization led to the identification of a group of new potent PARP-1 inhibitors, acyl- piperazinylamides of 3-(4-oxo-3, 4-dihydro-quinazolin-2-yl)-propionic acid. Molecular ...