Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, and development of disease-modifying treatment is still an unmet medical need. Considering the implication of free iron(II) in PD, we report here the design and characterization of a novel hybrid iron chelator, (−)-12 (D-607) as a multitarget-directed ligand against PD. Binding and functional assays at dopamine D2/D3 receptors indicate potent agonist activity of (−)-12. The molecule displayed an efficient preferential iron(II) chelation properties along with potent in vivo activity in a reserpinized PD animal model. The compound also rescued PC12 cells from toxicity induced by iron delivered intracellularly in a dose-dependent manner. However, Fe3+ selective dopamine agonist 1 and a well-known antiparkinsonian drug pramipexole produced little to no neuroprotection effect under the same experimental condition. These observations strongly suggest that (−)-12 should be a promising multifunctional lead molecule for a viable symptomatic and disease modifying therapy of PD.Keywords: D2/D3 agonist; iron chelation; multifunctional drug; neuroprotection; Parkinson’s disease;

•A novel Fe (II) preferring multifunctional brain penetrant dopamine D2/D3 agonist D-607 has been developed.•D-607 exhibits neuroprotection in multiple cellular Parkinson's disease models.•D-607 significantly suppresses α-synuclein induced toxicity in in vivo Drosophila melanogaster fly model.•D-607 rescues DAergic neurons from MPTP toxicity in mice following both subchronicand chronic MPTP administration.•Mitochondrial stabilization, inhibition of prolyl hydroxylase domain by D-607 mightexplain mechanism of neuroprotection.Here, we report the characterization of a novel hybrid D2/D3 agonist and iron (II) specific chelator, D-607, as a multi-target-directed ligand against Parkinson's disease (PD). In our previously published report, we showed that D-607 is a potent agonist of dopamine (DA) D2/D3 receptors, exhibits efficacy in a reserpinized PD animal model and preferentially chelates to iron (II). As further evidence of its potential as a neuroprotective agent in PD, the present study reveals D-607 to be protective in neuronal PC12 cells against 6-OHDA toxicity. In an in vivo Drosophila melanogaster model expressing a disease-causing variant of α-synuclein (α-Syn) protein in fly eyes, the compound was found to significantly suppress toxicity compared to controls, concomitant with reduced levels of aggregated α-Syn. Furthermore, D-607 was able to rescue DAergic neurons from MPTP toxicity in mice, a well-known PD neurotoxicity model, following both sub-chronic and chronic MPTP administration. Mechanistic studies indicated that possible protection of mitochondria, up-regulation of hypoxia-inducible factor, reduction in formation of α-Syn aggregates and antioxidant activity may underlie the observed neuroprotection effects. These observations strongly suggest that D-607 has potential as a promising multifunctional lead molecule for viable symptomatic and disease-modifying therapy for PD.Download high-res image (202KB)Download full-size image

Our structure–activity relationship studies with N6-(2-(4-(1H-indol-5-yl)piperazin-1-yl)ethyl)-N6-propyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo[d]thiazole-2,6-diamine derivatives led to development of a lead compound (−)-21a which exhibited very high affinity (Ki, D2 = 16.4 nM, D3 = 1.15 nM) and full agonist activity (EC50 (GTPγS); D2 = 3.23 and D3 = 1.41 nM) at both D2 and D3 receptors. A partial agonist molecule (−)-34 (EC50 (GTPγS); D2 = 21.6 (Emax = 27%) and D3 = 10.9 nM) was also identified. In a Parkinson’s disease (PD) animal model, (−)-21a was highly efficacious in reversing hypolocomotion in reserpinized rats with a long duration of action, indicating its potential as an anti-PD drug. Compound (−)-34 was also able to elevate locomotor activity in the above PD animal model significantly, implying its potential application in PD therapy. Furthermore, (−)-21a was shown to be neuroprotective in protecting neuronal PC12 from toxicity of 6-OHDA. This report, therefore, underpins the notion that a multifunctional drug like (−)-21a might have the potential not only to ameliorate motor dysfunction in PD patients but also to modify disease progression by protecting DA neurons from progressive degeneration.

Current therapy of depression is less than ideal with remission rates of only 25–35% and response rates of 45–60%. It has been hypothesized that a dysfunctional dopaminergic system in the mesocorticolimbic pathway in depressive disorder may lead to development of anhedonia associated with loss of pleasure and interest along with loss of motivation. The current antidepressants do not address dopamine dysfunction which might explain their low efficacy. In this report, we have described an SAR study on our pyran-based triple reuptake inhibitors (TRIs) which are being investigated as the next-generation antidepressants. In the present work we demonstrate that our lead TRIs can be modified with appropriate aromatic substitutions to display a highly potent SSRI profile for compounds 2a and 4a (Ki (SERT); 0.71 and 2.68 nM, respectively) or a potent DNRI profile for compounds 6b and 6h (Ki (DAT/NET); 8.94/4.76 and 13/7.37 nM, respectively). Compounds 4g–4i exhibited potencies at all three monoamine transporters. The results provide insights into the structural requirements for developing selective dual- and triple-uptake inhibitors from a unique pyran molecular template for an effective management of depression and related disorders.

Oxidative stress has been strongly implicated in the progression of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Depletion of cytoplasmic glutathione levels is one of the indications of oxidative stress, which occur in the substantia nigra of PD patients at an early stage of the disease process. It has been shown that glutathione depletion causes the inhibition of mitochondrial complex I, thus affecting mitochondrial function leading to oxidative stress via production of reactive oxygen species. Studies were carried out to investigate the role of D-512, a potent multifunctional neuroprotective D2/D3 receptor agonist, in protecting dopaminergic PC12 cells treated with buthionine sulfoximine (BSO), an inhibitor of key enzyme in glutathione synthesis and 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), a widely used neurotoxin. D-512 was able to restore level of glutathione against BSO/6-OHDA-mediated glutathione depletion. D-512 also showed significant neuroprotection in PC12 cells against toxicity induced by combined treatment of BSO and 6-OHDA. Furthermore, D-512 was able to restore both phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase and phospho-Jun N-terminal kinase levels upon treatment with 6-OHDA providing an evidence on the possible mechanism of action for neuroprotection by modulating mitogen-activated protein kinases. We have further demonstrated the neuroprotective effects of D-512 against oxidative insult produced by BSO and 6-OHDA in PC12 cells.

In our overall goal to develop multifunctional dopamine D2/D3 agonist drugs for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD), we previously synthesized potent D3 preferring agonist D-264 (1a), which exhibited neuroprotective properties in two animal models of PD. To enhance the in vivo efficacy of 1a, a structure–activity relationship study was carried out. Competitive binding and [35S]GTPγS functional assays identified compound (−)-9b as one of the lead molecules with preferential D3 agonist activity (EC50(GTPγS); D3 = 0.10 nM; D2/D3 (EC50): 159). Compounds (−)-9b and (−)-8b exhibited high in vivo activity in two PD animal models, reserpinized and 6-hydroxydopamine (OHDA)-induced unilateral lesioned rats. On the other hand, 1a failed to show any in vivo activity in these models unless the compound was dissolved in 5–10% beta-hydroxy propyl cyclodextrin solution. Lead compounds exhibited appreciable radical scavenging activity. In vitro experiments with dopaminergic MN9D cells indicated neuroprotection by both 1a and (−)-9b from toxicity of MPP+.

We have developed a series of dihydroxy compounds and related analogues based on our hybrid D2/D3 agonist molecular template to develop multifunctional drugs for symptomatic and neuroprotective treatment for Parkinson’s disease (PD). The lead compound (−)-24b (D-520) exhibited high agonist potency at D2/D3 receptors and produced efficacious activity in the animal models for PD. The data from thioflavin T (ThT) assay and from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis demonstrate that D-520 is able to modulate aggregation of alpha-synuclein (αSN). Additionally, coincubation of D-520 with αSN is able to reduce toxicity of preformed aggregates of αSN compared to control αSN alone. Finally, in a neuroprotection study with dopaminergic MN9D cells, D-520 clearly demonstrated the effect of neuroprotection from toxicity of 6-hydroxydopamine. Thus, compound D-520 possesses properties characteristic of multifunctionality conducive to symptomatic and neuroprotective treatment of PD.Keywords: alpha-synuclein; D2/D3 agonist; multifunctional drug; neuroprotection; Parkinson’s disease

In this study we have generated a pharmacophore model of triple uptake inhibitor compounds based on novel asymmetric pyran derivatives and the newly developed asymmetric furan derivatives. The model revealed features important for inhibitors to exhibit a balanced activity against dopamine transporter (DAT), serotonin transporter (SERT), and norepinephrine transporter (NET). In particular, a ‘folded’ conformation was found common to the active pyran compounds in the training set and was crucial to triple uptake inhibitory activity. Furthermore, the distances between the benzhydryl moiety and the N-benzyl group as well as the orientation of the secondary nitrogen were also important for TUI activity. We have validated our findings by synthesizing and testing novel asymmetric pyran analogs. The present work has also resulted in the discovery of a new series of asymmetric tetrahydrofuran derivatives as novel TUIs. Lead compounds 41 and 42 exhibited moderate TUI activity. Interestingly, the highest TUI activity by lead tetrahydrofuran compounds for example, 41 and 42, was exhibited in a stereochemical preference similar to pyran TUI for example, D-161.

To gain insights into the structural requirements for dopamine D2 and D3 agonists in the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD) and to elucidate the basis of selectivity for D3 over D2 (D2/D3), 3D quantitative structure–activity relationship (3D QSAR) investigations using CoMFA (comparative molecular field analysis) and CoMSIA (comparative molecular similarity indices analysis) methods were performed on a series of 45 structurally related D2 and D3 dopaminergic ligands. Two alignment methods (atom-based and flexible) and two charge calculation methods (Gasteiger–Hückel and AM1) were used in the present study. Overall, D2 affinity and selectivity (D2/D3) models performed better with rcv2 values of 0.71 and 0.63 for CoMFA and 0.71 and 0.79 for CoMSIA, respectively. The corresponding predictive r2 values for the CoMFA and CoMSIA models were 0.92 and 0.86 and 0.91 and 0.78, respectively. The CoMFA models generated using the flexible alignment outperformed the models with the atom-based alignment in terms of relevant statistics and interpretability of the generated contour maps while CoMSIA models obtained using atom-based alignment showed superiority in terms of internal and external predictive abilities. The presence of the carbonyl group (CO) attached to the piperazine ring and the hydrophobic biphenyl ring were found to be the most important features responsible for the D3 selectivity over D2. This study can be further utilized to design and develop selective and potent dopamine agonists to treat PD.

In this Article, we have demonstrated the in vivo efficacy of D-512 and D-440 in a 6-OHDA-induced unilaterally lesioned rat model experiment, a Parkinson’s disease animal model. D-512 is a novel highly potent D2/D3 agonist, and D-440 is a novel highly selective D3 agonist. We evaluated the neuroprotective properties of D-512 and D-440 in the dopaminergic MN9D cells. Cotreatment of these two drugs with 6-OHDA and MPP+ significantly attenuated and reversed 6-OHDA- and MPP+-induced toxicity in a dose-dependent manner in the dopaminergic MN9D cells. The inhibition of caspase 3/7 and lipid peroxidation activities along with the restoration of tyrosine hydroxylase levels by D-512 in 6-OHDA-treated cells may partially explain the mechanism of its neuroprotective property. Furthermore, studies were carried out to elucidate the time-dependent changes in the pERK1/2 and pAkt, two kinases implicated in cell survival and apoptosis, levels upon treatment with 6-OHDA in presence of D-512. The neuroprotective property exhibited by these drugs was independent of their dopamine-agonist activity, which is consistent with our multifunctional drug-development approach that is focused on the generation of disease-modifying symptomatic-treatment agents for Parkinson’s disease.Keywords: 6-OHDA; Dopamine; dopamine agonist; MN9D cells; MPTP; multifunctional drugs; Parkinson’s disease

The goal of the present study was to explore, in our previously developed hybrid template, the effect of introduction of additional heterocyclic rings (mimicking catechol hydroxyl groups as bioisosteric replacement) on selectivity and affinity for the D3 versus D2 receptor. In addition, we wanted to explore the effect of derivatization of functional groups of the agonist binding moiety in compounds developed by us earlier from the hybrid template. Binding affinity (Ki) of the new compounds was measured with tritiated spiperone as the radioligand and HEK-293 cells expressing either D2 or D3 receptors. Functional activity of selected compounds was assessed in the GTPγS binding assay. In the imidazole series, compound 10a exhibited the highest D3 affinity whereas the indole derivative 13 exhibited similar high D3 affinity. Functionalization of the amino group in agonist (+)-9d with different sulfonamides derivatives improved the D3 affinity significantly with (+)-14f exhibiting the highest affinity. However, functionalization of the hydroxyl and amino groups of 15 and (+)-9d, known agonist and partial agonist, to sulfonate ester and amide in general modulated the affinity. In both cases loss of agonist potency resulted from such derivatization.

This study aims to determine the effect of the novel D3 dopamine receptor agonist, D-264, on activation of D3 and D2 dopamine receptor signal transduction pathways and cell proliferation. AtT-20 neuroendocrine cells stably expressing human D2S, D2L, and D3 dopamine receptors were treated with D-264 and the coupling of the receptors to mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and G protein-coupled inward rectifier potassium (GIRK) channels was determined using Western blotting and whole-cell voltage clamp recording, respectively. D-264 potently activated MAPK signaling pathway coupled to D2S, D2L, and D3 dopamine receptors. The activation of MAPK was more pronounced than the reference agonist quinpirole and was longer lasting. D-264 also activated GIRK channels coupled to D2S, D2L, and D3 receptors. In addition, D-264 dose-dependently induced cell proliferation in AtT-D2L and AtT-D3 cells. These results indicate that D-264 robustly activates GIRK channels and MAPK coupled to D2 and D3 dopamine receptors in AtT-20 cells. D-264 is also a potent inducer of cell proliferation.

In our effort to develop multifunctional drugs against Parkinson’s disease, a structure–activity-relationship study was carried out based on our hybrid molecular template targeting D2/D3 receptors. Competitive binding with [3H]spiroperidol was used to evaluate affinity (Ki) of test compounds. Functional activity of selected compounds in stimulating [35S]GTPγS binding was assessed in CHO cells expressing either human D2 or D3 receptors. Our results demonstrated development of highly selective compounds for D3 receptor (for (−)-40Ki, D3 = 1.84 nM, D2/D3 = 583.2; for (−)-45Ki, D3 = 1.09 nM, D2/D3 = 827.5). Functional data identified (−)-40 (EC50, D2 = 114 nM, D3 = 0.26 nM, D2/D3 = 438) as one of the highest D3 selective agonists known to date. In addition, high affinity, nonselective D3 agonist (−)-19 (EC50, D2 = 2.96 nM and D3 = 1.26 nM) was also developed. Lead compounds with antioxidant activity were evaluated using an in vivo PD animal model.

This report describes development of a series of novel bivalent molecules with a pharmacophore derived from the D2/D3 agonist 5-OH-DPAT. The spacer length in the bivalent compounds had a pronounced influence on affinity for D2 receptors. A 23-fold increase of D2 affinity was observed at a spacer length of 9 or 10 (compounds 11d and 14b) as compared to monovalent 5-OH-DPAT (Ki; 2.5 and 2.0 vs 59 nM for 11d and 14b vs 5-OH-DPAT, respectively). The functional potency of 11d and 14b indicated a 24- and 94-fold increase in potency at the D2 receptor as compared to 5-OH-DPAT (EC50; 1.7 and 0.44 vs 41 nM for 11d and 14b vs 5-OH-DPAT, respectively). These are the most potent bivalent agonists for the D2 receptor known to date. This synergism is consonant with cooperative interaction at the two orthosteric binding sites in the homodimeric receptor.Keywords: affinity; bivalent ligands; cooperative gain; D2/D3 dopamine receptors; potency; synergism

To investigate structural alterations of the lead triple uptake inhibitor molecule, disubstituted 4-((((3S,6S)-6-benzhydryltetrahydro-2H-pyran-3-yl)amino)methyl)phenol, we have carried out structure−activity relationship (SAR) studies to investigate the effect of alteration of aromatic substitutions and introduction of heterocyclic aromatic moieties on this molecular template. The novel compounds were tested for their affinities for the dopamine transporter (DAT), serotonin transporter (SERT), and norepinephrine transporter (NET) in the brain by measuring their potency in inhibiting the uptake of [3H]DA, [3H]5-HT, and [3H]NE, respectively. SAR results indicate dopamine norepinephrine reuptake inhibitory (DNRI) type activity in thiophene (10g) and pyrrole (10i) derivatives. On the other hand, 3-hydroxyphenyl derivative 10f and 4-methoxyphenyl derivative 10j exhibited a triple reuptake inhibitory (TUI) activity profile, as these molecules exhibited potent uptake inhibition for all the monoamine transporters (Ki of 31.3, 40, 38.5 and Ki of 15.9, 12.9, 29.3 for DAT, SERT, and NET for 10f and 10g, respectively). Compound 10f was further evaluated in the rat forced swim test to evaluate its potential antidepressant effect. The results show significant reduction of immobility by TUI 10f at 10 mg/kg dose, indicating potential antidepressant activity.

Triple monoamine reuptake inhibitors have been implicated in the development of a new generation of antidepressants with higher efficacy than the currently existing therapies. In this paper, we have developed an alternative efficient synthetic route for triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor D-142 in 18.5% overall yield in 11 steps starting from diphenylmethane. D-142 was developed by us recently. The key step of the present synthetic strategy is the preferential formation of a bromohydrin from olefin via a cis-bromonium intermediate, which introduced significant efficiency in the overall synthesis. Furthermore, we have developed an efficient way to recycle the optically active intermediate diol back to the desired chiral epoxide.(R)-2-BenzhydryloxiraneC15H14O[α]D25=+10.1 (c 1.0, CH3OH)Source of chirality: hydrolytic kinetic resolutionAbsolute configuration: (R)(S)-3,3-Diphenylpropane-1,2-diolC15H16O2[α]D25=+48.0 (c 1.0, CH3OH)Source of chirality: hydrolytic kinetic resolutionAbsolute configuration: (S)(S)-3-((tert-Butyldimethylsilyl)oxy)-1,1-diphenylpropan-2-olC21H30O2Si[α]D25=+31.6 (c 1.0, CH3OH)Source of chirality: hydrolytic kinetic resolutionAbsolute configuration: (S)(S)-3-((tert-Butyldimethylsilyl)oxy)-1,1-diphenylpropan-2-yl methanesulfonateC22H32O4SSi[α]D25=-40.4 (c 0.5, CH3OH)Source of chirality: hydrolytic kinetic resolutionAbsolute configuration: (S)(S)-3-Hydroxy-1,1-diphenylpropan-2-yl methanesulfonateC16H18O4S[α]D25=-38.8 (c 0.5, CH3OH)Source of chirality: hydrolytic kinetic resolutionAbsolute configuration: (S)(S)-1,1-Diphenylpent-4-en-2-olC17H18O[α]D25=-36.6 (c 0.5, CH3OH)Source of chirality: hydrolytic kinetic resolutionAbsolute configuration: (S)(S)-(2-(Allyloxy)pent-4-ene-1,1-diyl)dibenzeneC20H22O[α]D25=+23.6 (c 1.0, CH3OH)Source of chirality: hydrolytic kinetic resolutionAbsolute configuration: (S)(S)-2-Benzhydryl-3,6-dihydro-2H-pyranC18H18O[α]D25=-94.6 (c 0.5, CH3OH)Source of chirality: hydrolytic kinetic resolutionAbsolute configuration: (S)(2S,4R,5R)-2-Benzhydryl-5-bromotetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-olC18H19BrO2[α]D25=-114.4 (c 0.5, CH3OH)Source of chirality: hydrolytic kinetic resolutionAbsolute configuration: (2S,4R,5R)(1S,4S,6R)-4-Benzhydryl-3,7-dioxabicyclo[4.1.0]heptaneC18H18O2[α]D25=-58.6 (c 0.5, CH3OH)Source of chirality: hydrolytic kinetic resolutionAbsolute configuration: (1S,4S,6R)(2S,4R,5R)-2-Benzhydryl-5-((4-methoxybenzyl)amino)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-olC26H29NO3[α]D25=-72.6 (c 0.5, CH3OH)Source of chirality: hydrolytic kinetic resolutionAbsolute configuration: (2S,4R,5R)

The role of iron in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) has been implicated strongly because of generation of oxidative stress leading to dopamine cell death. In our overall goal to develop bifunctional/multifunctional drugs, we designed dopamine D2/D3 agonist molecules with a capacity to bind to iron. Binding assays were carried out with HEK-293 cells expressing either D2 or D3 receptor with tritiated spiperone to evaluate inhibition constants (Ki). Functional activity of selected compounds was carried out with GTPγS binding assay. SAR results identified compounds (+)-19a and (−)-19b as two potent agonists for both D2 and D3 receptors (EC50 (GTPγS); D2 = 4.51 and 1.69 nM and D3 = 1.58 and 0.74 nM for (−)-19b and (+)-19a, respectively). In vitro complexation studies with 19b demonstrated efficient chelation with iron. Furthermore, the deoxyribose assay with 19b demonstrated potent antioxidant activity. In PD animal model study, (−)-19b exhibited potent in vivo activity in reversing locomotor activity in reserpinized rats and also in producing potent rotational activity in 6-OHDA lesioned rats. This reports initial development of unique lead molecules that might find potential use in symptomatic and neuroprotective treatment of PD.

Here we report structure−activity relationship study of a novel hybrid series of compounds where structural alteration of aromatic hydrophobic moieties connected to the piperazine ring and bioisosteric replacement of the aromatic tetralin moieties were carried out. Binding assays were carried out with HEK-293 cells expressing either D2 or D3 receptors with tritiated spiperone to evaluate inhibition constants (Ki). Functional activity of selected compounds in stimulating GTPγS binding was assessed with CHO cells expressing human D2 receptors and AtT-20 cells expressing human D3 receptors. SAR results identified compound (−)-24c (D-301) as one of the lead molecules with preferential agonist activity for D3 receptor (EC50 (GTPγS); D3 = 0.52 nM; D2/D3 (EC50): 223). Compounds (−)-24b and (−)-24c exhibited potent radical scavenging activity. The two lead compounds, (−)-24b and (−)-24c, exhibited high in vivo activity in two Parkinson’s disease (PD) animal models, reserpinized rat model and 6-OHDA induced unilaterally lesioned rat model. Future studies will explore potential use of these compounds in the neuroprotective therapy for PD.

Here we report a structure–activity relationship (SAR) study of analogues of 5/7-{[2-(4-aryl-piperazin-1-yl)-ethyl]-propyl-amino}-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalen-2-ol. Our SAR is focused on introduction of various substitutions in the piperazine ring of the hybrid template. The goal behind this study is to delineate the nature of the binding pocket for N-aryl substitution in the piperazine ring by observing the effect of various hydrophobic and other heteroaromatic substitutions on binding affinity (Ki), as measured with tritiated spiperone and HEK-293 cells expressing either D2 or D3 receptors. Functional activity of selected compounds was assessed with the GTPγS binding assay. Compound 8d was the most selective for the D3 receptor in the spiperone binding assay. An interesting similarity in binding affinity was observed between isoquinoline derivative D-301 and the 2-substituted pyridine derivative 8d, suggesting the importance of relative spatial relationships between the N-atom of the ligand and the molecular determinants of the binding pocket in D2/D3 receptors. Functional activity assays demonstrated high potency and selectivity of (+)-8a and (−)-28b (D2/D3 (ratio of EC50): 105 and 202, respectively) for the D3 receptor and both compounds were more selective compared to the reference drug ropinirole (D2/D3 (ratio of EC50): 29.5).

Here we report on the design and synthesis of several heterocyclic analogues belonging to the 5/7-{[2-(4-aryl-piperazin-1-yl)-ethyl]-propyl-amino}-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalen-2-ol series of molecules. Compounds were subjected to [3H]spiperone binding assays, carried out with HEK-293 cells expressing either D2 or D3 dopamine receptors, in order to evaluate their inhibition constant (Ki) at these receptors. Results indicate that N-substitution on the piperazine ring can accommodate various substituted indole rings. The results also show that in order to maintain high affinity and selectivity for the D3 receptor the heterocyclic ring does not need to be connected directly to the piperazine ring as the majority of compounds included here are linked either via an amide or a methylene linker to the heterocyclic moiety. The enantiomers of the most potent racemic compound 10e exhibited differential activity with (−)-10e (Ki; D2 = 47.5 nM, D3 = 0.57 nM) displaying higher affinity at both D2 and D3 receptors compared to its enantiomer (+)-10e (Ki; D2 = 113 nM, D3 = 3.73 nM). Additionally, compound (−)-10e was more potent and selective for the D3 receptor compared to either 7-OH-DPAT or 5-OH-DPAT. Among the bioisosteric derivatives, the indazole derivative 10g and benzo[b]thiophene derivative 10i exhibited the highest affinity for D2 and D3 receptors. In the functional GTPγS binding study, one of the lead molecules, (−)-15, exhibited potent agonist activity at both D2 and D3 receptors with preferential affinity at D3.

A series of structurally constrained analogues based on hybrid compounds containing octahydrobenzo[g or f]quinoline moieties were designed, synthesized, and characterized for their binding to dopamine D2 and D3 receptors expressed in HEK-293 cells. Among the newly developed constrained molecules, trans-octahydrobenzo[f]quinolin-7-ol (8) exhibited the highest affinity for D2 and D3 receptors, the (−)-isomer being the eutomer. Interestingly, this hybrid constrained version 8 showed significant affinity over the corresponding nonhybrid version 1 (representing a constrained version of the aminotetralin structure only) when assayed under same conditions (Ki of 49.1 and 14.9 nM for 8 vs 380 and 96.0 nM for 1 at D2 and D3, respectively). Similar results were found with other lead hybrid compounds, indicating a contribution of the piperazine moiety in the observed enhanced affinity. On the basis of the data of new lead constrained derivatives and other lead hybrid derivatives developed by us, a unique pharmacophore model was proposed consisting of three pharmacophoric centers, two with aromatic/hydrophobic and one with cationic features.

This paper describes an extended structure–activity relationships study of aminotetralin−piperazine-based hybrid molecules developed earlier for dopamine D2/D3 receptors. Various analogues as positional isomers have been developed where location of the phenolic hydroxyl group has been varied on the aromatic ring. Between two catechol derivatives, compound 6e with a two methylene linker length exhibited higher affinity and selectivity for D3 over D2 receptors over compound 6f with four methylene linkers (D2/D3 = 50.6 vs 7.51 for 6e and 6f, respectively). In general, the (−)-isomer was more potent than the (+)-isomeric counterpart. Binding results indicated highest selectivity for D3 receptors in compound (−)-10 (Ki = 0.35 nM; D2/D3 = 71). In the 5-hydroxy series, highest selectivity for D3 receptors was exhibited by compound (−)-25 (Ki = 0.82 nM; D2/D3 = 31.5). Most potent compounds exhibited binding and functional affinities at the sub-nanomolar level for the D3 receptor. Binding assays were carried out with HEK-293 cells expressing either D2 or D3 receptors by using tritiated spiperone as radioligand for competition studies to evaluate inhibition constants (Ki). A functional assay of selected compounds for stimulating GTPγS binding was carried out with CHO cells expressing human D2 receptors and AtT-20 cells expressing human D3 receptors. The functional assay results indicated partial to full agonist characteristics of test compounds. Compound (−)-25 was selected further for in vivo study to evaluate its potency in producing contralateral rotations in rats with unilateral lesion in the nigrostriatal region induced by neurotoxin 6-OHDA, a Parkinsonian animal model. Compound (−)-25 at 5 µmol/kg exhibited rotational activity that lasted beyond 12 h, whereas at a 1 µmol/kg dose the rotations lasted beyond 8 h.

In the current report, we extend the SAR study on our hybrid structure 7-{[2-(4-phenyl-piperazin-1-yl)ethyl]propylamino}-5,6,7,8-tetrahydronaphthalen-2-ol further to include heterocyclic bioisosteric analogues. Binding assays were carried out with HEK-293 cells expressing either D2 or D3 receptors with tritiated spiperone to evaluate inhibition constants (Ki). Functional activity of selected compounds in stimulating GTPγS binding was assessed with CHO cells expressing human D2 receptors and AtT-20 cells expressing human D3 receptors. The highest binding affinity and selectivity for D3 receptors were exhibited by (−)-34 (Ki = 0.92 nM and D2/D3 = 253). In the functional GTPγS binding assay, (−)-34 exhibited full agonist activity with picomolar affinity for D3 receptor with high selectivity (EC50 = 0.08 nM and D2/D3 = 248). In the in vivo rotational study, (−)-34 exhibited potent rotational activity in 6-OH-DA unilaterally lesioned rats with long duration of action, which indicates its potential application in neuroprotective treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

Our earlier effort to develop constrained analogues of flexible piperidine derivatives for monoamine transporters led to the development of a series of 3,6-disubstituted piperidine derivatives, and a series of 4,8-disubstituted 1,4-diazabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane derivatives. In further structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies on these constrained derivatives, several novel analogues were developed where an exocyclic hydroxyl group was introduced on the N-alkyl-aryl side chain. All synthesized derivatives were tested for their affinities for the dopamine transporter (DAT), serotonin (5-HT) transporter (SERT), and norepinephrine transporter (NET) in the brain by measuring their potency in inhibiting the uptake of [3H]DA, [3H]5-HT, and [3H]NE, respectively. Compounds were also tested for their binding potency at the DAT by their ability to inhibit binding of [3H]WIN 35,428. The results indicated that position of the hydroxyl group on the N-alkyl side chain is important along with the length of the side chain. In general, hydroxyl derivatives derived from more constrained bicyclic diamines exhibited greater selectivity for interaction with DAT compared to the corresponding 3,6-disubstituted diamines. In the current series of molecules, compound 11b with N-propyl side chain with the hydroxyl group attached in the benzylic position was the most potent and selective for DAT (Ki = 8.63 nM; SERT/DAT = 172 and NET/DAT = 48.4).

Three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D QSAR) using comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) was performed on a series of substituted tetrahydropyran (THP) derivatives possessing serotonin (SERT) and norepinephrine (NET) transporter inhibitory activities. The study aimed to rationalize the potency of these inhibitors for SERT and NET as well as the observed selectivity differences for NET over SERT. The dataset consisted of 29 molecules, of which 23 molecules were used as the training set for deriving CoMFA models for SERT and NET uptake inhibitory activities. Superimpositions were performed using atom-based fitting and 3-point pharmacophore-based alignment. Two charge calculation methods, Gasteiger-Hückel and semiempirical PM3, were tried. Both alignment methods were analyzed in terms of their predictive abilities and produced comparable results with high internal and external predictivities. The models obtained using the 3-point pharmacophore-based alignment outperformed the models with atom-based fitting in terms of relevant statistics and interpretability of the generated contour maps. Steric fields dominated electrostatic fields in terms of contribution. The selectivity analysis (NET over SERT), though yielded models with good internal predictivity, showed very poor external test set predictions. The analysis was repeated with 24 molecules after systematically excluding so-called outliers (5 out of 29) from the model derivation process. The resulting CoMFA model using the atom-based fitting exhibited good statistics and was able to explain most of the selectivity (NET over SERT)-discriminating factors. The presence of −OH substituent on the THP ring was found to be one of the most important factors governing the NET selectivity over SERT. Thus, a 4-point NET-selective pharmacophore, after introducing this newly found H-bond donor/acceptor feature in addition to the initial 3-point pharmacophore, was proposed.

In our effort to further understand interaction of novel pyran derivatives with monoamine transporters, we have designed, synthesized, and biologically characterized side-chain-extended derivatives of our earlier developed cis- and trans-(6-benzhydryl-tetrahydro-pyran-3-yl)-benzylamine derivatives. Both 3- and 6-position extensions were explored. All synthesized derivatives were tested for their affinities for the dopamine transporter (DAT), serotonin transporter (SERT), and norepinephrine transporter (NET) in the brain by measuring their potency in inhibiting the uptake of [3H]DA, [3H]5-HT, and [3H]NE, respectively. Compounds were also tested for their binding affinity at the DAT by their ability to inhibit binding of [3H]WIN 35, 428. The results indicated that extension at the 3-position resulted in loss of activity compared to the original compound I. On the other hand, extension at the 6-position resulted in improvement of activity in the compound cis-12 by 2-fold over the parent compound I indicating favorable interaction. In addition, two glycoside derivatives were designed, synthesized, and biologically characterized. The glycosidic trans-isomer 24 exhibited highest potency for the NET in the current series of compounds.

In our effort to delineate novel pharmacophoric configuration of bioisosteric pyran versions of cis-(6-benzhydryl-piperidin-3-yl)-benzylamine derivatives in interacting with the monoamine transporter, further structure–activity relationship study was carried out. Both cis and trans 2,4- and 3,6-disubstituted derivatives were synthesized to determine the positional importance of N-substitution on affinity for monoamine transporters, that is the dopamine transporter (DAT), the serotonin transporter (SERT), and the norepinephrine transporter (NET) in rat brain. For that purpose, the potency of compounds was determined in competing for the binding of [3H]WIN 35,428, [3H]citalopram, and [3H]nisoxetine, respectively. Selected compounds were also evaluated for their activity in inhibiting the uptake of [3H]DA by DAT. Our binding results demonstrated potency in 3,6-disubstituted derivatives while 2,4-disubstituted derivatives failed to exhibit any appreciable binding affinity. Further structural exploration of the exocyclic N-atom in 3,6-disubstituted derivatives produced compounds potent at both DAT and NET. Compounds 16h and 16o with hydroxyl and amino groups in the phenyl moiety of the benzyl group produced the highest activity for the NET. In this regard, compound 16e with a methoxy substituent produced weak affinity at NET, which upon conversion into a hydroxyl functionality as in 16h produced potent affinity for the NET. Various indole derivatives displayed different interactions; the 5-substituted indole derivative 16n exerted potent affinity for NET, confirming the bioisosteric equivalence between this indole moiety and the phenyl-4-hydroxy group in 16h.Structure–activity relationship study of cis-(6-benzhydryl-tetrahydropyran-3-yl)-(4-fluorobenzyl)-amine derivatives and their bioisosteric analogs for the monoamine transporters in the central nervous system.

In a recent preliminary communication we described the development of a series of hybrid molecules for the dopamine D2 and D3 receptor subtypes. The design of these compounds was based on combining pharmacophoric elements of aminotetralin and piperazine molecular fragments derived from known dopamine receptor agonist and antagonist molecules. Molecules developed from this approach exhibited high affinity and selectivity for the D3 receptor as judged from preliminary [3H]spiperone binding data. In this report, we have expanded our previous finding by developing additional novel molecules and additionally evaluated functional activities of these novel molecules in the [3H]thymidine incorporation mitogenesis assay. The binding results indicated highest selectivity in the bioisosteric benzothiazole derivative N6-[2-(4-phenyl-piperazin-1-yl)-ethyl]-N6-propyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-benzothiazole-2,6-diamine (14) for the D3 receptor whereas the racemic compound 7-({2-[4-(2,3-dichloro-phenyl)-piperazin-1-yl]-ethyl}-propyl-amino)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalen-2-ol (10c) showed the strongest potency. Mitogenesis studies to evaluate functional activity demonstrated potent agonist properties in these novel derivatives for both D2 and D3 receptors. In this regard, compound 7-{[4-(4-phenyl-piperazin-1-yl)-butyl]-prop-2-ynyl-amino}-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalen-2-ol (7b) exhibited the most potent agonist activity at the D3 receptor, 10 times more potent than quinpirole and was also the most selective compound for the D3 receptor in this series. Racemic compound 10a was resolved; however, little separation of activity was found between the two enantiomers of 10a. The marginally more active enantiomer (−)-10a was examined in vivo using the 6-OH-DA induced unilaterally lesioned rat model to evaluate its activity in producing contralateral rotations. The results demonstrated that in comparison to the reference compound apomorphine, (−)-10a was quite potent in inducing contralateral rotations and exhibited longer duration of action.Structure–activity relationship study demonstrating agonist activity of hybrid 7-{[2-(4-phenyl-piperazin-1-yl)-ethyl]-propyl-amino}-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-naphthalen-2-ol and their heterocyclic bioisosteric analogues for dopamine D2 and D3 receptors.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the major debilitating neurodegenerative disorders affecting millions of people worldwide. Progressive loss of dopamine neurons resulting in development of motor dysfunction and other related non-motor symptoms is the hallmark of PD. Previously, we have reported on the neuroprotective property of a potent D3 preferring agonist D-264. In our goal to increase the bioavailability of D-264 in the brain, we have synthesized a modified cysteine based prodrug of D-264 and evaluated its potential in crossing the blood–brain barrier. Herein, we report the synthesis of a novel modified cysteine conjugated prodrug of potent neuroprotective D3 preferring agonist D-264 and systematic evaluation of the hydrolysis pattern of the prodrug to yield D-264 at different time intervals in rat plasma and brain homogenates using HPLC analysis. Furthermore, we have also performed in vivo experiments with the prodrug to evaluate its enhanced brain penetration ability.Download high-res image (211KB)Download full-size image

Major depression disorder is a significant health problem with 10–20% of all adults suffering from this disease. The underlying causes of depression are still unclear and 15% of depressed patients are resistant to all known therapies. Monoamine therapies have so far been the most successful approach for treating depression. Triple monoamine reuptake inhibitors have recently been implicated in generation of potent antidepressant activity while possibly exhibiting a low side-effect profile in addition to treating anhedonia. The additional, previously under-appreciated involvement of dopaminergic systems in depression prompted our efforts to develop novel asymmetric trisubstituted and disubstituted pyran derivatives as triple reuptake inhibitors. One of the lead compounds, D-142, exhibited uptake inhibition (Ki) values of 29.3 nM, 14.7 nM and 59.3 ± 13.7 nM for norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine transporters, respectively. Its affinity for serotonin transporter was comparable to fluoxetine, a well known SSRI. In the rat forced swimming test, compound D-142 exhibited potent antidepressant activity in the dose range tested (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg) and was far more efficacious than the reference compound imipramine. In the mouse tail suspension test, compound D-142 reduced immobility in a dose (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg) dependent manner, indicating a potent antidepressant effect. In locomotor activity tests, compound D-142 did not exhibit any stimulation in the same dose ranges. In the extended CNS receptors screening assay this molecule exhibited little or no non-specific interaction in the CNS, indicating high specificity for monoamine transporters. These results advance D-142 as a potential potent antidepressant.

Our ongoing drug development endeavor to design compounds for symptomatic and neuroprotective treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD) led us to carry out a structure activity relationship study based on dopamine agonists pramipexole and 5-OHDPAT. Our goal was to incorporate structural elements in these agonists in a way to preserve their agonist activity while producing inhibitory activity against aggregation of α-synuclein protein. In our design we appended various catechol and related phenol derivatives to the parent agonists via different linker lengths. Structural optimization led to development of several potent agonists among which (−)-8a, (−)-14 and (−)-20 exhibited potent neuroprotective properties in a cellular PD model involving neurotoxin 6-OHDA. The lead compounds (−)-8a and (−)-14 were able to modulate aggregation of α-synuclein protein efficiently. Finally, in an in vivo PD animal model, compound (−)-8a exhibited efficacious anti-parkinsonian effect.