Exploiting polarity and chirality to probe the Hsp90 C-terminus

Inhibition of the Hsp90 C-terminus is an attractive therapeutic approach for the treatment of cancer. Novobiocin, the first Hsp90 C-terminal inhibitor identified, contains a synthetically complex noviose sugar that has limited the generation of structure-activity relationships for this region of the molecule. The work described herein utilizes various ring systems as noviose surrogates to explore the size and nature of the surrounding binding pocket.

Some novel piperidine analogues having strong alpha glucosidase inhibition

The idea of this study is based on the marvelous fact of nojirimycin and deoxy nojirimycin, naturally occurring from piperidine class and having their role as alpha glucosidase inhibitors. In the present work some hydroxyl piperidine analogues have been synthesized and analysed for their hypoglycemic effect through glucosidase inhibition owing to the structural resemblance with nojirimycin. The activity was done by spectral absorbance analysis using acarbose as standard. Two analogues (I & IV) were found to pose excellent activity having 87.4 and 54.7% inhibition respectively, hence strengthening the idea of studying piperidine analogiues as glucosidase inhibitors due to structural similarity with nojirimycin.

Carnitine, A New Precursor in the Formation of the Plant Growth Regulator Mepiquat

Carnitine is demonstrated as an effective methyl donor in the formation of the plant growth regulator N, N-dimethylpiperidinium (mepiquat), encompassing either N-methylation/decarboxylation of pipecolic acid, or Maillard pathways followed by transmethylation reactions. The formation of mepiquat and the intermediate compounds was monitored (180-300 °C, up to 180 min) using HPLC-MS/MS in different binary or ternary model systems composed of (i) lysine/fructose/carnitine, (ii) lysine/glucose/carnitine, or (iii) pipecolic acid (PipAc)/carnitine. The highest yield of mepiquat was 2.4% after 120 min incubation at 290 °C (PipAc/carnitine model system). The highest yield was recorded in fructose and glucose (Maillard) systems after 180 min at 230 °C. The full-scan mode was used to monitor the formation of the corresponding intermediates (piperidine and N-methylpiperidine, the demethylated intermediates of carnitine). The new pathways of mepiquat formation indicate that the occurrence of low levels of this thermally induced compound is potentially more widespread in some selected cooked foodstuffs. For the first time, mepiquat was detected in oven-cooked beef, reaching up to 82.5 μg/kg. These amounts are not expected to significantly contribute to the overall exposure via different foodstuffs, as reported in previous studies.

Improved Synthesis of N-Methylcadaverine

Alkaloids compose a large class of natural products, and mono-methylated polyamines are a common intermediate in their biosynthesis. In order to evaluate the role of selectively methylated natural products, synthetic strategies are needed to prepare them. Here, N-methylcadaverine is prepared in 37.3% yield in three steps. The alternative literature two-step strategy resulted in reductive deamination to give N-methylpiperidine as determined by the single crystal structure. A straightforward strategy to obtain the mono-alkylated aliphatic diamine, cadaverine, which avoids potential side-reactions, is demonstrated.

Orally Available Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase/Phosphodiesterase 4 Dual Inhibitor Treats Inflammatory Pain

Inspired by previously discovered enhanced analgesic efficacy between soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) and phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors, we designed, synthesized and characterized 21 novel sEH/PDE4 dual inhibitors. The best of these displayed good efficacy in in vitro assays. Further pharmacokinetic studies of a subset of four selected compounds led to the identification of a bioavailable dual inhibitor N-(4-methoxy-2-(trifluoromethyl)benzyl)-1-propionylpiperidine-4-carboxamide (MPPA). In a lipopolysaccharide induced inflammatory pain rat model, MPPA rapidly increased in the blood ( Tmax = 30 min; Cmax = 460 nM) after oral administration of 3 mg/kg and reduced inflammatory pain with rapid onset of action correlating with blood levels over a time course of 4 h. Additionally, MPPA does not alter self-motivated exploration of rats with inflammatory pain or the withdrawal latency in control rats.

Structure-guided design of potent and permeable inhibitors of MERS coronavirus 3CL protease that utilize a piperidine moiety as a novel design element

There are currently no approved vaccines or small molecule therapeutics available for the prophylaxis or treatment of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infections. MERS-CoV 3CL protease is essential for viral replication; consequently, it is an attractive target that provides a potentially effective means of developing small molecule therapeutics for combatting MERS-CoV. We describe herein the structure-guided design and evaluation of a novel class of inhibitors of MERS-CoV 3CL protease that embody a piperidine moiety as a design element that is well-suited to exploiting favorable subsite binding interactions to attain optimal pharmacological activity and PK properties. The mechanism of action of the compounds and the structural determinants associated with binding were illuminated using X-ray crystallography.

Synthesis and activity of functionalizable derivatives of the serotonin (5-HT) 5-HT2A receptor (5-HT2AR) antagonist M100907

The approach of tethering together two known receptor ligands, to be used as molecular probes for the study of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) systems, has proven to be a valuable approach. Selective ligands that possess functionality that can be used to link to other ligands, are useful in the development of novel antagonists and agonists. Such molecules can also be attached to reporter molecules, such as fluorophores, for the study of GPCR dimerization and its role in signaling. The highly selective serotonin (5-HT) 5-HT_2A receptor (5-HT_2AR) antagonist M100907 (volinanserin) is of clinical interest in the treatment of neurological and mental health disorders. Here, we synthesized the most active (+)-M100907 enantiomer as well as a series of derivatives that possessed either an alkyne or an azide. The triazole resulting from the dipolar cycloaddition of these groups did not interfere with the ability of the bivalent ligand to act as an antagonist. Thus, we have synthesized a number of compounds which will prove useful in elucidating the role of the 5-HT_2AR in the central nervous system.

Enantioselective Synthesis of α-(Hetero)aryl Piperidines through Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Pyridinium Salts and Its Mechanistic Insights

Enantioselective synthesis of α-aryl and α-heteroaryl piperidines is reported. The key step is an iridium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of substituted N-benzylpyridinium salts. High levels of enantioselectivity up to 99.3:0.7 er were obtained for a range of α-heteroaryl piperidines. DFT calculations support an outersphere dissociative mechanism for the pyridinium reduction. Notably, initial protonation of the final enamine intermediate determines the stereochemical outcome of the transformation rather than hydride reduction of the resultant iminium intermediate.

Discovery of DSP-1053, a novel benzylpiperidine derivative with potent serotonin transporter inhibitory activity and partial 5-HT1A receptor agonistic activity

We have previously shown that SMP-304, a serotonin uptake inhibitor with weak 5-HT_1A partial agonistic activity, may act under high serotonin levels as a 5-HT_1A antagonist that improves the onset of paroxetine in the rat swimming test. However, SMP-304 is mostly metabolized by CYP2D6, indicating limited efficacy among individuals and increased side effects. To reduce CYP2D6 metabolic contribution and enhance SERT/5-HT_1A binding affinity, we carried out a series of substitutions at the bromine atom in the left part of the benzene ring of SMP-304 and replaced the right part of SMP-304 with a chroman-4-one. This optimization work led to the identification of the antidepressant candidate DSP-1053 as a potent SERT inhibitor with partial 5-HT_1A receptor agonistic activity. DSP-1053 showed low CYP2D6 metabolic contribution and a robust increase in serotonin levels in the rat frontal cortex.

Synthesis and Smo Activity of Some Novel Benzamide Derivatives

Two series of benzamides compounds bearing piperidine groups were synthesized and the Gli-luc luciferase activity was screened by Gys-luc luciferase gene detection method. Compound 5q showed promising inhibition of hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway. To further verify whether the Hh inhibitory activities of the target compounds are derived from their inhibition to the Smoothened (Smo) receptor, the compounds with good potency were evaluated in a fluorescence competitive displacement assays, the results showed the Smo inhibitory potency of these compounds correlated well with their Hh inhibition, which suggested that the observed Hh activity was driven by Smo inhibitors.

Impact of novel N-aryl piperamide NO donors on NF-κB translocation in neuroinflammation: rational drug-designing synthesis and biological evaluation

NO donor drugs showed a significant therapeutic effect in the treatment of many diseases, such as arteriopathies, various acute and chronic inflammatory conditions, and several degenerative diseases. NO-releasing anti-inflammatory drugs are the prototypes of a novel class of compounds, combining the pharmacological activities of anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive of drugs with those of NO, thus possessing potential therapeutic applications in a great variety of diseases. In this study, we designed and predicted biological activity by targeting cyclooxygenase type 2 (COX-2) and NF-κB subunits and pharmacological profiling along with toxicity predictions of various N-aryl piperamides linked via an ester bond to a spacer that is bound to a NO-releasing moiety (-ONO2). The result of absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion and Docking studies indicated that among 51 designed molecules PA-3′K showed the best binding potential in both the substrate and inhibitory binding pocket of the COX-2 enzyme with affinity values of –9.33 and –5.12 for PDB ID 1CVU and 3LN1, respectively, thereby having the potential to be developed as a therapeutic agent. The results of cell viabilities indicated that PA-3′k possesses the best cell viability property with respect to its dose (17.33 ng/ml), with 67.76% and 67.93% viable cells for CHME3 and SVG cell lines, respectively.

Synthesis and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Fire Ant Venom Alkaloid Based 2-Methyl-6-alkyl-Δ1,6-piperideines

The first synthesis of 2-methyl-6-pentadecyl-Δ^1,6-piperideine (1), a major alkaloid of the piperideine chemotype in fire ant venoms, and its analogues, 2-methyl-6-tetradecyl-Δ^1,6-piperideine (2) and 2-methyl-6-hexadecyl-Δ^1,6-piperideine (3), was achieved by a facile synthetic method starting with glutaric acid (4) and urea (5). Compound 1 showed in vitro antifungal activity against Cryptococcus neoformans and Candida albicans with IC₅₀ values of 6.6 and 12.4 μg/mL, respectively, and antibacterial activity against vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium with an IC₅₀ value of 19.4 μg/mL, while compounds 2 and 3 were less active against these pathogens. All three compounds strongly inhibited the parasites Leishmania donovani promastigotes and Trypanosoma brucei with IC₅₀ values in the range of 5.0-6.7 and 2.7-4.0 μg/mL, respectively.

Facile and Green Synthesis of Saturated Cyclic Amines

Single-nitrogen containing saturated cyclic amines are an important part of both natural and synthetic bioactive compounds. A number of methodologies have been developed for the synthesis of aziridines, azetidines, pyrrolidines, piperidines, azepanes and azocanes. This review highlights some facile and green synthetic routes for the synthesis of unsubstituted, multisubstituted and highly functionalized saturated cyclic amines including one-pot, microwave assisted, metal-free, solvent-free and in aqueous media.

Discovery of a novel, CNS penetrant M4 PAM chemotype based on a 6-fluoro-4-(piperidin-1-yl)quinoline-3-carbonitrile core

This Letter details the discovery and subsequent optimization of a novel M4 PAM scaffold based on an 6-fluoro-4-(piperidin-1-yl)quinoline-3-carbonitrile core, which represents a distinct departure from the classical M4 PAM chemotypes. Optimized compounds in this series demonstrated improved M4 PAM potency on both human and rat M4 (4 to 5-fold relative to HTS hit), and displayed attractive physicochemical and DMPK profiles, including good CNS penetration (rat brain:plasma Kp=5.3, Kp,uu=2.4; MDCK-MDR1 (P-gp) ER=1.1).

Biphenyloxy-alkyl-piperidine and azepane derivatives as histamine H3 receptor ligands

Novel biphenyloxy-alkyl derivatives of piperidine and azepane were synthesized and evaluated for their binding properties at the human histamine H₃ receptor. Two series of compounds were obtained with a meta- and a para-biphenyl moiety. The alkyl chain spacer contained five and six carbon atoms. The highest affinity among all compounds was shown by 1-(6-(3-phenylphenoxy)hexyl)azepane (13) with a K_i value of 18nM. Two para-biphenyl derivatives, 1-(5-(4-phenylphenoxy)pentyl)piperidine (14; K_i=25nM) and 1-(5-(4-phenylphenoxy)pentyl)azepane (16; K_i=34nM), classified as antagonists in a cAMP accumulation assay (IC₅₀=4 and 9nM, respectively), were studied in detail. Compounds 14 and 16 blocked RAMH-induced dipsogenia in rats (ED₅₀ of 2.72mg/kg and 1.75mg/kg respectively), and showed high selectivity (hH₄R vs hH₃R>600-fold) and low toxicity (hERG inhibition: IC₅₀>1.70µM; hepatotoxicity IC₅₀>12.5µM; non-mutagenic up to 10µM). Furthermore, the metabolic stability was evaluated in vitro on human liver microsomes (HLMs) and/or rat liver microsomes (RLMs). Metabolites produced were analyzed and tentatively identified by UPLC-MS techniques. The results demonstrated easy hydroxylation of the biphenyl ring.

Thiazole-Based σ1 Receptor Ligands: Diversity by Late-Stage C-H Arylation of Thiazoles, Structure-Affinity and Selectivity Relationships, and Molecular Interactions

Spirocyclic thiophene derivatives represent promising σ1 ligands with high σ1 affinity and selectivity over the σ2 subtype. To increase ligand efficiency, the thiophene ring was replaced bioisosterically by a thiazole ring, and the pyran ring was opened. Late-stage diversification by regioselective C-H arylation of thiazoles 9 a-c resulted in a set of 53 compounds with high diversity. This set of compounds was analyzed with respect to σ1 affinity, σ1 /σ2 selectivity, lipophilicity (logD7.4 ), lipophilicity-corrected ligand efficiency (LELP), and molecular target interactions. The most promising candidates were pyridyl-substituted thiazole derivatives 33 c (2-(1-benzyl-4-ethoxypiperidin-4-yl)-5-(pyridin-3-yl)thiazole) and 34 c (2-(1-benzyl-4-ethoxypiperidin-4-yl)-5-(pyridin-4-yl)thiazole), possessing low-nanomolar σ1 affinity (Ki =1.3 and 1.9 nm), high σ1 /σ2 selectivity (>1500-fold), low lipophilicity (logD7.4 =1.8) and very good ligand efficiency (LELP=5.5), indicating promising pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. Molecular simulation studies, including docking and deconvolution of the free binding energy into its major components, led to decreased hydrophobic stabilization of pyridyl derivatives 33 c and 34 c, which was compensated by lower desolvation energy.

3-Piperidylethoxypterocarpan: A potential bone anabolic agent that improves bone quality and restores trabecular micro-architecture in ovariectomized osteopenic rats

A series of new 6H-benzofuro[3, 2-c]chromenes (BFC, pterocarpans) with structure-activity relationships were investigated for their potential use in osteoporosis treatment. One of the BFCs 3-piperidylethoxypterocarpan 20 promotes osteoblast differentiation and mineralization at a dose as low as 1 pM via activation of ER/P38MAPK/BMP-2 pathway. When evaluated for in-vivo osteogenic activity in female Sprague-Dawley rats, BFC 20 increased bone mineral density and new bone formation, compared with control at 1.0 and 10.0 mg/kg/body weight by oral gavage for 30 days. The compound was devoid of any uterotrophic effect and led to the new bone formation in adult ovariectomized osteopenic rats. BFC 20 compound also inhibited bone resorption by reducing Ovx induced increase in urinary CTx, thus exhibiting both bone anabolic and anti-catabolic action. Finally, BFC 20 treatment to Ovx rats led to improved trabecular microarchitectural restoration and exhibited therapeutic potential as a dual acting anti-osteoporotic agent for the management of osteoporosis.

Computer-aided discovery of two novel chalcone-like compounds active and selective against Leishmania infantum

Leishmaniasis are infectious diseases caused by parasites of genus Leishmania that affect affects 12 million people in 98 countries mainly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Effective treatments for this disease are urgently needed. In this study, we present a computer-aided approach to investigate a set of 32 recently synthesized chalcone and chalcone-like compounds to act as antileishmanial agents. As a result, nine most promising compounds and three potentially inactive compounds were experimentally evaluated against Leishmania infantum amastigotes and mammalian cells. Four compounds exhibited EC50 in the range of 6.2-10.98μM. In addition, two compounds, LabMol-65 and LabMol-73, exhibited cytotoxicity in macrophages >50μM that resulted in better selectivity compared to standard drug amphotericin B. These two compounds also demonstrated low cytotoxicity and high selectivity towards Vero cells. The results of target fishing followed by homology modeling and docking studies suggest that these chalcone compounds could act in Leishmania because of their interaction with cysteine proteases, such as procathepsin L. Finally, we have provided structural recommendations for designing new antileishmanial chalcones.

Structure-activity relationship of piperine and its synthetic amide analogs for therapeutic potential to prevent experimentally induced ER stress in vitro

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the key organelle involved in protein folding and maturation. Emerging studies implicate the role of ER stress in the development of chronic kidney disease. Thus, there is an urgent need for compounds that could ameliorate ER stress and prevent CKD. Piperine and its analogs have been reported to exhibit multiple pharmacological activities; however, their efficacy against ER stress in kidney cells has not been studied yet. Hence, the goal of this study was to synthesize amide-substituted piperine analogs and screen them for pharmacological activity to relieve ER stress using an in vitro model of tunicamycin-induced ER stress using normal rat kidney (NRK-52E) cells. Five amide-substituted piperine analogs were synthesized and their chemical structures were elucidated by pertinent spectroscopic techniques. An in vitro model of ER stress was developed using tunicamycin, and the compounds of interest were screened for their effect on cell viability, and the expression of ER chaperone GRP78, the pro-apoptotic ER stress marker CHOP, and apoptotic caspases 3 and 12 (via western blotting). Our findings indicate that exposure to tunicamycin (0.5 μg/mL) for 2 h induces the expression of GRP78 and CHOP, and apoptotic markers (caspase-3 and caspase-12) and causes a significant reduction in renal cell viability. Pre-treatment of cells with piperine and its cyclohexylamino analog decreased the tunicamycin-induced upregulation of GRP78 and CHOP and cell death. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that piperine and its analogs differentially regulate ER stress, and thus represent potential therapeutic agents to treat ER stress-related renal disorders. Graphical Abstract Piperine (PIP) reduces the expression of ER stress markers (GRP78 and CHOP) induced by pathologic stimuli and consequently decreases the activation of apoptotic caspase-12 and caspase-3; all of which contributes to its chemical chaperone and cytoprotective properties to protect renal cells against ER stress and ER stress-induced cell death, and would ultimately prevent the development of chronic kidney disease.

Novel Pieces for the Emerging Picture of Sulfoximines in Drug Discovery: Synthesis and Evaluation of Sulfoximine Analogues of Marketed Drugs and Advanced Clinical Candidates

Sulfoximines have gained considerable recognition as an important structural motif in drug discovery of late. In particular, the clinical kinase inhibitors for the treatment of cancer, roniciclib (pan-CDK inhibitor), BAY 1143572 (P-TEFb inhibitor), and AZD 6738 (ATR inhibitor), have recently drawn considerable attention. Whilst the interest in this underrepresented functional group in drug discovery is clearly on the rise, there remains an incomplete understanding of the medicinal-chemistry-relevant properties of sulfoximines. Herein we report the synthesis and in vitro characterization of a variety of sulfoximine analogues of marketed drugs and advanced clinical candidates to gain a better understanding of this neglected functional group and its potential in drug discovery.

Synthesis of Substituted α-Trifluoromethyl Piperidinic Derivatives

A comprehensive survey of pathways leading to the generation of α-trifluoromethyl monocyclic piperidinic derivatives is provided (65 references). These compounds have been synthesized either from 6-membered rings e.g., pipecolic acid or lactam derivatives by introduction a trifluoromethyl group, from pyridine or pyridinone derivatives by reduction, and from 5-membered rings e.g., prolinol derivatives by ring expansion, from linear amines by cyclization or from dienes/dienophiles by [4 + 2]-cycloaddition.

Practical synthesis of capromorelin, a growth hormone secretagogue, via a crystallization-induced dynamic resolution

A practical synthesis of capromorelin (1), a growth hormone secretagogue, is described that utilizes as a key step a crystallization-induced dynamic resolution (CIDR) of (±)-3a-benzyl-2-methyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-2H-pyrazolo[4,3-c]pyridin-3(3aH)-one [(±)-2] by L-tartaric acid salt formation, yielding (R)-2.L-tartaric acid in high chemical yield (>85%) and with diastereomeric excess (de) of ∼98%. Treatment of (R)-2.L-tartaric acid with ammonium hydroxide provided (R)-2 without loss of chiral purity. In situ generated (R)-2 was coupled with (R)-3-(benzyloxy)-2-(2-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)-2-methylpropanamido)propanoic acid [(R)-3] to give predominantly a single diastereomer of N-Boc-protected capromorelin [(1R,3aR)-4]. This process was used to prepare bulk quantities of capromorelin from (±)-2 to support preclinical toxicology studies.

N-Propargylpiperidines with naphthalene-2-carboxamide or naphthalene-2-sulfonamide moieties: Potential multifunctional anti-Alzheimer's agents

In the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease, the enzymatic activities of butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) are increased. While BChE is a viable therapeutic target for alleviation of symptoms caused by cholinergic hypofunction, MAO-B is a potential therapeutic target for prevention of neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease. Starting with piperidine-based selective human (h)BChE inhibitors and propargylamine-based MAO inhibitors, we have designed, synthesized and biochemically evaluated a series of N-propargylpiperidines. All of these compounds inhibited hBChE with good selectivity over the related enzyme, acetylcholinesterase, and crossed the blood-brain barrier in a parallel artificial membrane permeation assay. The crystal structure of one of the inhibitors (compound 3) in complex with hBChE revealed its binding mode. Three compounds (4, 5, 6) showed concomitant inhibition of MAO-B. Additionally, the most potent hBChE inhibitor 7 and dual BChE and MAO-B inhibitor 6 were non-cytotoxic and protected neuronal SH-SY5Y cells from toxic amyloid β-peptide species.

Elaboration of a proprietary thymidylate kinase inhibitor motif towards anti-tuberculosis agents

We report the design and synthesis of a series of non-nucleoside MtbTMPK inhibitors (1-14) based on the gram-positive bacterial TMPK inhibitor hit compound 1. A practical synthesis was developed to access these analogues. Several compounds show promising MtbTMPK inhibitory potency and allow the establishment of a structure-activity relationship, which is helpful for further optimization.

Inhibition of endopeptidase and exopeptidase activity of cathepsin B impairs extracellular matrix degradation and tumour invasion

Cathepsin B is a lysosomal cysteine protease that is implicated in a number of physiological processes, including protein turnover in lysosomes. Changes in its expression are associated with a variety of pathological processes, including cancer. Due to the structural feature, termed the occluding loop, cathepsin B differs from other cysteine proteases in possessing both, endopeptidase and exopeptidase activity. Here we investigated the impact of both cathepsin B activities on intracellular and extracellular collagen IV degradation and tumour cell invasion using new selective synthetic inhibitors, 2-{[(8-hydroxy-5-nitroquinoline-7-yl)methyl]amino}-acetonitrile (1), 8-(4-methylpiperidin-1-yl)-5-nitroquinoline (2) and 7-[(4-methylpiperidin-1yl)methyl]-5-nitroquinolin-8-ol (3). All three compounds (5 μM) reduced extracellular degradation of collagen IV by MCF-10A neoT cells by 45-70% as determined by spectrofluorimetry and they (50 μM) attenuated intracellular collagen IV degradation by 40-60% as measured with flow cytometry. Furthermore, all three compounds (5 μM) impaired MCF-10A neoT cell invasion by 40-80% as assessed by measuring electrical impedance in real time. Compounds 1 and 3 (5 μM), but not compound 2, significantly reduced the growth of MMTV-PyMT multicellular tumour spheroids. Collectively, these data suggest that the efficient strategy to impair harmful cathepsin B activity in tumour progression may include simultaneous and potent inhibition of cathepsin B endopeptidase and exopeptidase activities.

Synthesis of coumaperine derivatives: Their NF-κB inhibitory effect, inhibition of cell migration and their cytotoxic activity

Coumaperine (an amide alkaloid, present in white piper) and its derivatives were synthesized and investigated for their cytotoxicity against L428 and A549 cells and their NF-κB inhibitory activity. It was found that the coumaperine derivatives CP-9 and CP-38 suppress NF-κB subunits p50 and p65 in nuclear fractions by western blot and by NF-κB luciferase reporter gene assay in a dose dependent manner. Confirmation of these results was obtained by confocal microscopy. CP-9, CP-32 and CP-38 also exhibited dose dependent cell cytotoxicity in a L428 cells expressing constitutively active NF-κB and in A549 cells, with an IC50 value of 43.25 μg/ml, 0.39 μg/ml and 16.85 μg/ml respectively against L428 cells and 57.15 μg/ml, 69.1 μg/ml and 63.2 μg/ml respectively against A549 cells. In addition, the coumaperine derivatives show remarkable inhibitory activity on the cancer cell migration assay against A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells at the concentrations of 5 μg/ml, 10 μg/ml, and 5 μg/ml of CP-9, CP-32 and CP-38 respectively. Aromatic substituents and number of olefinic double bond in coumaperine derivatives found to influence the inhibitory activity. In luciferase reporter gene assay, di-olefin conjugated coumaperine derivatives, CP-38, CP-32 and PIP exhibited higher inhibitory activity than their corresponding tri-olefin conjugated coumaperine derivatives, CP-102, CP-146 and PIP-155 respectively. CP-32 with a stronger electron donating group (-N(CH₃)₂) showed better inhibitory activity in luciferase reporter gene assay and in cell proliferation of L428 cells. Simple coumaperine derivative (CP-9, with no substituent) effectively inhibited A549 cells proliferation and migration than the other coumaperine derivatives. CP-9 and CP-38 diminish significantly the NF-κB subunits (p50 and p65) of L428 cells in nuclear fractions at the dosage of 10 μg/ml and 30 μg/ml respectively. Which clearly shows that CP-9 and CP-38 inactivate the NF-κB pathway in vitro.

Novel Enantiopure Sigma Receptor Modulators: Quick (Semi-)Preparative Chiral Resolution via HPLC and Absolute Configuration Assignment

The identification of novel pan-sigma receptor (SR) modulators, potentially useful in cancer treatment, represents a new goal of our research. Here, we report on the preparation of novel chiral compounds characterized by a 3-C alkyl chain bridging an aromatic portion to a 4-benzyl-piperidine moiety. All of the studied compounds have been prepared both in racemic and enantiomerically-pure form, with the final aim to address the role of chirality in the SR interaction. To isolate and characterize enantiomeric compounds, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) procedures were set up. A systematic analytical screening, involving several combinations of chiral stationary and mobile phases, allowed us to optimize the analytical resolution and to set up the (semi-)preparative chromatographic conditions. Applying the optimized procedure, the enantiomeric resolution of the studied compounds was successfully achieved, obtaining all of the compounds with an enantiomeric excess higher than 95%. Lastly, the absolute configuration has been empirically assigned to enantiopure compounds, combining the electronic circular dichroism (ECD) technique to the elution order study.

Antifungal and Antiaflatoxigenic Methylenedioxy-Containing Compounds and Piperine-Like Synthetic Compounds

Twelve methylenedioxy-containing compounds including piperine and 10 piperine-like synthetic compounds were assessed to determine their antifungal and antiaflatoxigenic activities against Aspergillus flavus ATCC 22546 in terms of their structure-activity relationships. Piperonal and 1,3-benzodioxole had inhibitory effects against A. flavus mycelial growth and aflatoxin B₁ production up to a concentration of 1000 μg/mL. Ten piperine-like synthetic compounds were synthesized that differed in terms of the carbon length in the hydrocarbon backbone and the presence of the methylenedioxy moiety. In particular, 1-(2-methylpiperidin-1-yl)-3-phenylprop-2-en-1-one had potent antifungal and antiaflatoxigenic effects against A. flavus up to a concentration of 1 μg/mL. This synthetic compound was remarkable because the positive control thiabendazole had no inhibitory effect at this concentration. Reverse transcription-PCR analysis showed that five genes involved in aflatoxin biosynthesis pathways were down-regulated in A. flavus, i.e., aflD, aflK, aflQ, aflR, and aflS; therefore, the synthetic compound inhibited aflatoxin production by down-regulating these genes.

Turning the respiratory flexibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis against itself

The Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) electron transport chain (ETC) has received significant attention as a drug target, however its vulnerability may be affected by its flexibility in response to disruption. Here we determine the effect of the ETC inhibitors bedaquiline, Q203 and clofazimine on the Mtb ETC, and the value of the ETC as a drug target, by measuring Mtb's respiration using extracellular flux technology. We find that Mtb's ETC rapidly reroutes around inhibition by these drugs and increases total respiration to maintain ATP levels. Rerouting is possible because Mtb rapidly switches between terminal oxidases, and, unlike eukaryotes, is not susceptible to back pressure. Increased ETC activity potentiates clofazimine's production of reactive oxygen species, causing rapid killing in vitro and in a macrophage model. Our results indicate that combination therapy targeting the ETC can be exploited to enhance killing of Mtb.

Rh(III)-Catalyzed C-H Bond Addition/Amine-Mediated Cyclization of Bis-Michael Acceptors

A Rh(III)-catalyzed C-H bond addition/primary amine-promoted cyclization of bis-Michael acceptors is reported. The C-H bond addition step occurs with high chemoselectivity, and the subsequent intramolecular Michael addition, mediated by a primary amine catalyst, sets three contiguous stereocenters with high diastereoselectivity. A broad range of directing groups and both aromatic and alkenyl C-H bonds were shown to be effective in this transformation, affording functionalized piperidines, tetrahydropyrans, and cyclohexanes.

Synthesis and evaluation of multi-target-directed ligands for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease based on the fusion of donepezil and melatonin

A novel series of compounds obtained by fusing the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor donepezil and the antioxidant melatonin were designed as multi-target-directed ligands for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In vitro assay indicated that most of the target compounds exhibited a significant ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase (eeAChE and hAChE), butyrylcholinesterase (eqBuChE and hBuChE), and β-amyloid (Aβ) aggregation, and to act as potential antioxidants and biometal chelators. Especially, 4u displayed a good inhibition of AChE (IC50 value of 193nM for eeAChE and 273nM for hAChE), strong inhibition of BuChE (IC50 value of 73nM for eqBuChE and 56nM for hBuChE), moderate inhibition of Aβ aggregation (56.3% at 20μM) and good antioxidant activity (3.28trolox equivalent by ORAC assay). Molecular modeling studies in combination with kinetic analysis revealed that 4u was a mixed-type inhibitor, binding simultaneously to catalytic anionic site (CAS) and the peripheral anionic site (PAS) of AChE. In addition, 4u could chelate metal ions, reduce PC12 cells death induced by oxidative stress and penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Taken together, these results strongly indicated the hybridization approach is an efficient strategy to identify novel scaffolds with desired bioactivities, and further optimization of 4u may be helpful to develop more potent lead compound for AD treatment.

Piperidine derivatives as nonprostanoid IP receptor agonists 2

We searched for a strong and selective nonprostanoid IP agonist bearing piperidine and benzanilide moieties. Through optimization of substituents on the benzanilide moiety, the crucial part of the agonist, 43 (2-((1-(2-(N-(4-tolyl)benzo[d][1,3]dioxole-5-carboxamido)ethyl)piperidin-4-yl)oxy)acetic acid monohydrate monohydrochloride) was discovered and exhibited strong platelet aggregation inhibition (IC50=21nM) and 100-fold selectivity for IP receptor over other PG receptors. The systemic exposure level and bioavailability after oral administration of 43 were also good in dog.

Design, synthesis, and pharmacological evaluation of JDTic analogs to examine the significance of replacement of the 3-hydroxyphenyl group with pyridine or thiophene bioisosteres

The potent and selective KOR antagonist JDTic was derived from the N-substituted trans-3,4-dimethyl-4-(3-hydroxyphenyl)piperidine class of pure opioid antagonists. In previous studies we reported that compounds that did not have a hydroxyl on the 3-hydroxyphenyl group and did not have methyl groups at the 3- and 4-position of the piperidine ring were still potent and selective KOR antagonists. In this study we report JDTic analogs 2, 3a-b, 4a-b, and 5, where the 3-hydroxyphenyl ring has been replaced by a 2-, 3-, or 4-pyridyl or 3-thienyl group and do not have the 3-methyl or 3,4-dimethyl groups, remain potent and selective KOR antagonists. Of these, (3R)-7-hydroxy-N-(1S)-2-methyl-[4-methyl-4-pyridine-3-yl-carboxamide (3b) had the best overall binding potency and selectivity in a [(35)S]GTPγS functional assay, with a Ke=0.18nM at the KOR and 273- and 16,700-fold selectivity for the KOR relative to the MOR and DOR, respectively. Calculated physiochemical properties for 3b suggest that it will cross the blood-brain barrier.

Enantioselective synthesis and antioxidant activity of 3,4,5-substituted piperidine derivatives

In this study, 3,4,5-trisubstituted piperidines were synthesized enantioselectively, and their antioxidant activity was evaluated. The 3,4,5-trisubstituted piperidines containing TEMPO (2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl) and a spatially proximal hydroxy group showed good antioxidant activity. Some of these compounds showed IC50 values in a nanomolar range, comparable to that of TEMPO. Probably the TEMPO generated from the homolysis of the CON bond of 3,4,5-trisubstituted piperidines functions as a radical-scavenging entity, and the hydroxy group of piperidines has a synergistic effect to the antioxidant activity.

CuAAC click chemistry with N-propargyl 1,5-dideoxy-1,5-imino-D-gulitol and N-propargyl 1,6-dideoxy-1,6-imino-D-mannitol provides access to triazole-linked piperidine and azepane pseudo-disaccharide iminosugars displaying glycosidase inhibitory properties

Protecting group-free synthesis of 1,2:5,6-di-anhydro-D-mannitol, followed by ring opening with propargylamine and subsequent ring closure produced a separable mix of piperidine N-propargyl 1,5-dideoxy-1,5-imino-D-gulitol and azepane N-propargyl 1,6-dideoxy-1,6-imino-D-mannitol. In O-acetylated form, these two building blocks were subjected to CuAAC click chemistry with a panel of three differently azide-substituted glucose building blocks, producing iminosugar pseudo-disaccharides in good yield. The overall panel of eight compounds, plus 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) as a benchmark, was evaluated as prospective inhibitors of almond β-glucosidase, yeast α-glucosidase and barley β-amylase. The iminosugar pseudo-disaccharides showed no inhibitory activity against almond β-glucosidase, while the parent N-propargyl 1,5-dideoxy-1,5-imino-D-gulitol and N-propargyl 1,6-dideoxy-1,6-imino-D-mannitol likewise proved to be inactive against yeast α-glucosidase. Inhibitory activity could be reinstated in the former series by appropriate substitution on nitrogen. The greater activity of the piperidine could be rationalized based on docking studies. Further, potent inhibition of β-amylase was observed with compounds from both the piperidine and azepane series.

Symmetric 4,4'-(piperidin-4-ylidenemethylene)bisphenol derivatives as novel tunable estrogen receptor (ER) modulators

We designed and synthesized 4,4'-(piperidin-4-ylidenemethylene)bisphenol derivatives as novel tunable estrogen receptor (ER) modulators. The introduction of hydrophobic substituents on the nitrogen atom of the piperidine ring enhanced ERα binding affinity. In addition, the introduction of four methyl groups adjacent to the piperidine ring nitrogen atom remarkably enhanced ERα binding affinity. N-Acetyl-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine derivative 3b showed high ERα binding affinity, high MCF-7 cell proliferation inducing activity, and high metabolic stability in rat liver S9 fractions.

Toward the identification of neuroprotective agents: g-scale synthesis, pharmacokinetic evaluation and CNS distribution of (R)-RC-33, a promising SIGMA1 receptor agonist

AIM

Nowadays, there is a great interest in the therapeutic potential of sigma1 receptor ligands for treating different CNS pathologies. Our previous investigations led to identify (R)-RC-33 as a potent and selective S1R agonist.

RESULTS

Herein, we report the gram-scale synthesis, pharmacokinetic profile and CNS distribution of (R)-RC-33 in the mouse to determine the most suitable dosage schedule for in vivo administration. For comparative purposes, the same experiments were also performed with PRE-084, the most widely used S1R agonist commonly in pharmacological experiments.

DISCUSSION

(R)-RC-33 shows a similar pharmacokinetic profile and a better CNS distribution when compared with PRE-084.

CONCLUSION

(R)-RC-33 may be a promising candidate for in vivo studies in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases.

Enkephalin analogues with N-phenyl-N-(piperidin-2-ylmethyl)propionamide derivatives: Synthesis and biological evaluations

N-Phenyl-N-(piperidin-2-ylmethyl)propionamide based bivalent ligands are unexplored for the design of opioid based ligands. Two series of hybrid molecules bearing N-phenyl-N-(piperidin-2-ylmethyl)propionamide derived small molecules conjugated with an enkephalin analogues with and without a linker (β-alanine) were designed and synthesized. Both bivalent ligand series exhibited remarkable binding affinities from nanomolar to subnanomolar range at both μ and δ opioid receptors and displayed potent agonist activities as well. The replacement of Tyr with Dmt and introduction of a linker between the small molecule and enkephalin analogue resulted in highly potent ligands. Both series of ligands showed excellent binding affinities at both μ (0.6-0.9nM) and δ (0.2-1.2nM) opioid receptors respectively. Similarly, these bivalent ligands exhibited potent agonist activities in both MVD and GPI assays. Ligand 17 was evaluated for in vivo antinociceptive activity in non-injured rats following spinal administration. Ligand 17 was not significantly effective in alleviating acute pain. The most likely explanations for this low intrinsic efficacy in vivo despite high in vitro binding affinity, moderate in vitro activity are (i) low potency suggesting that higher doses are needed; (ii) differences in experimental design (i.e. non-neuronal, high receptor density for in vitro preparations versus CNS site of action in vitro); (iii) pharmacodynamics (i.e. engaging signalling pathways); (iv) pharmacokinetics (i.e. metabolic stability). In summary, our data suggest that further optimisation of this compound 17 is required to enhance intrinsic antinociceptive efficacy.

Synthesis and evaluation of a new vesamicol analog o-[(11)C]methyl-trans-decalinvesamicol as a PET ligand for the vesicular acetylcholine transporter

INTRODUCTION

We focused on the vesicle acetyl choline transporter (VAChT) as target for early diagnosis of Alzheimer's diseases because the dysfunction of the cholinergic nervous system is closely associated with the symptoms of AD, such as problem in recognition, memory, and learning. Due to its low binding affinity for the sigma receptors (σ-1 and σ-2), o-methyl-trans-decalinvesamicol (OMDV) demonstrated a high binding affinity and selectivity for vesicular acetyl choline transporter (VAChT). [(11)C]OMDV was prepared and investigated the potential as a new PET ligand for VAChT imaging through in vivo evaluation.

METHOD

[(11)C]OMDV was prepared by a palladium-promoted cross-coupling reaction using [(11)C]methyl iodide, with a radiochemical yield of 60-75%, a radiochemical purity of greater than 98%, and a specific activity of 5-10 TBq/mmol 30 min after EOB. In vivo biodistribution study of [(11)C]OMDV in blood, brain regions and major organs of rats was performed at 2, 10, 30 and 60 min post-injection. In vivo blocking study and PET-CT imaging study were performed to check the binding selectivity of [(11)C]OMDV for VAChT.

RESULTS

In vivo studies demonstrated [(11)C]OMDV passage through the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and accumulation in the rat brain. The regional brain accumulation of [(11)C]OMDV was significantly inhibited by co-administration of vesamicol. In contrast, brain accumulation of [(11)C]OMDV was not significantly altered by co-administration of (+)-pentazocine, a selective σ-1 receptor ligand, or (+)-3-(3-hydroxyphenyl)-N-propylpiperidine [(+)-3-PPP], a σ-1 and σ-2 receptor ligand. PET-CT imaging revealed inhibition of [(11)C]OMDV accumulation in the brain by co-administration of vesamicol.

CONCLUSION

[(11)C]OMDV selectively binds to VAChT with high affinity in the rat brain in vivo, and that [(11)C]OMDV may be utilized in the future as a specific VAChT ligand for PET imaging.

Microwave assisted efficient synthesis of diphenyl substituted pyrazoles using PEG-600 as solvent - A green approach

A conventional and microwave assisted efficient synthesis of diphenyl substituted pyrazole using PEG 600 as green solvent has been described. A relatively shorter reaction time with excellent yield of the piperidine mediated protocol has been attracted economically attractive and eco-friendly. All newly synthesized compounds were characterized by standard spectroscopic techniques viz., UV-visible, FT-IR, (1)H-NMR and Mass spectra. The anti-microbial activities of compounds have also been tested using Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) method with two different microorganisms Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC3381) and Escherichia coli (MTCC739). The results of the antimicrobial activity revealed that the diphenyl substituted pyrazole derivatives have nice inhibiting nature against both types of bacteria of present investigation than corresponding chalcones. Since, the work has been focused on green chemical approach towards the synthesis, this protocol may be recommended for eco-friendly applications.

Indolylpiperidine derivatives as potent and selective α1B adrenoceptor antagonists

A series of novel indolylpiperidine derivatives were synthesized, and their pharmacological profiles were assessed at rat α1A and α1B adrenoceptors through in vitro binding studies. Compound 12 (2-(3-(4-(6-fluoro-1H-indol-3-yl)piperidin-1-yl)propyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline) was a potent α1B adrenoceptor antagonist (Ki=0.61 nM) and was about 40-fold more selective for the α1B adrenoceptor than for the α1A adrenoceptor. In addition, useful structure-activity relationship information was acquired for further improving selectivity for the α1B adrenoceptor.

Structure-Based Design of a Small Molecule CD4-Antagonist with Broad Spectrum Anti-HIV-1 Activity

Earlier we reported the discovery and design of NBD-556 and their analogs which demonstrated their potential as HIV-1 entry inhibitors. However, progress in developing these inhibitors has been stymied by their CD4-agonist properties, an unfavorable trait for use as drug. Here, we demonstrate the successful conversion of a full CD4-agonist (NBD-556) through a partial CD4-agonist (NBD-09027), to a full CD4-antagonist (NBD-11021) by structure-based modification of the critical oxalamide midregion, previously thought to be intolerant of modification. NBD-11021 showed unprecedented neutralization breath for this class of inhibitors, with pan-neutralization against a panel of 56 Env-pseudotyped HIV-1 representing diverse subtypes of clinical isolates (IC50 as low as 270 nM). The cocrystal structure of NBD-11021 complexed to a monomeric HIV-1 gp120 core revealed its detail binding characteristics. The study is expected to provide a framework for further development of NBD series as HIV-1 entry inhibitors for clinical application against AIDS.

Total Synthesis of the Galbulimima Alkaloids Himandravine and GB17 Using Biomimetic Diels-Alder Reactions of Double Diene Precursors

The enantioselective total syntheses of himandravine and GB17 were completed through a common biomimetic strategy involving Diels-Alder reactions of unusual double diene containing linear precursors. The double diene precursors, containing or lacking a C12 substituent as required to produce GB17 or himandravine, respectively, were found to undergo Diels-Alder reactions to afford mixtures of regioisomeric cycloadducts that map onto the alternative carbocyclic frameworks of both himandravine and GB17. Computational investigations revealed that these Diels-Alder reactions proceed via transition state structures of similar energy that have a high degree of bispericyclic character and that the low levels of regioselectivity observed in the reactions are a consequence of competing orbital interaction and distortion energies. The combined experimental and computational results provide valuable insights into the biosynthesis of the Galbulimima alkaloids.

Piperine Congeners as Inhibitors of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation

Successful vascular healing after percutaneous coronary interventions is related to the inhibition of abnormal vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and efficient re-endothelialization. In the search for vascular smooth muscle cell anti-proliferative agents from natural sources we identified piperine (1), the main pungent constituent of the fruits from Piper nigrum (black pepper). Piperine inhibited vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation with an IC50 of 21.6 µM, as quantified by a resazurin conversion assay. Investigations of ten piperamides isolated from black pepper fruits and 15 synthesized piperine derivatives resulted in the identification of three potent vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation inhibitors: the natural alkaloid pipertipine (4), and the two synthetic derivatives (2E,4E)-N,N-dibutyl-5-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)penta-2,4-dienamide (14) and (E)-N,N-dibutyl-3-(naphtho[2,3-d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)acrylamide (20). They showed IC50 values of 3.38, 6.00, and 7.85 µM, respectively. Furthermore, the synthetic compound (2E,4E)-5-(4-fluorophenyl)-1-(piperidin-1-yl)penta-2,4-dien-1-one (12) was found to be cell type selective, by inhibiting vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation with an IC50 of 11.8 µM without influencing the growth of human endothelial cells.

Regio- and Diastereoselective Synthesis of Highly Substituted, Oxygenated Piperidines from Tetrahydropyridines

Diastereoselective epoxidation and regioselective ring-opening methods were developed for the synthesis of densely substituted, oxygenated piperidines from two classes of tetrahydropyridines with distinct stereochemical displays of functionalities. A new and practical in situ prepared epoxidation reagent was developed for the diastereoselective epoxidation of one class of sterically hindered tetrahydropyridines. The novel bifunctional epoxidation reagent, 2-carboperoxy-3,4,5,6-tetrafluorobenzoic acid, was designed to incorporate highly reactive percarboxy acid and pendant carboxylic acid groups, which through hydrogen bonding to the amino group successfully overrode steric effects and directed epoxidation to occur at the more hindered face of the tetrahydropyridine. Nucleophilic ring-opening of the epoxides with water, alcohols, and HF proceeded with high regioselectivity, affording piperidinol products with adjacent tetrasubstituted carbons.

Synthesis, spectral characterization and density functional theory exploration of 1-(quinolin-3-yl)piperidin-2-ol

The experimental and theoretical vibrational frequencies of a newly synthesized compound, namely 1-(quinolin-3-yl)piperidin-2-ol (QPPO) are analyzed. The experimental FT-IR (4000-400 cm(-1)) and FT-Raman (4000-100 cm(-1)) of the molecule in solid phase have been recorded. The optimized molecular structure, vibrational assignments of QPPO have been investigated experimentally and theoretically using Gaussian03W software package. The stability of the molecule arising from hyper-conjugative interaction and charge delocalization has been analyzed using NBO analysis. The first order hyperpolarizability (β0) is calculated to find its character in non-linear optics. Gauge including atomic orbital (GIAO) method is used to calculate (1)H NMR chemical shift calculations were carried out and compared with experimental data. The electronic properties like UV-Visible spectral analysis and HOMO-LUMO energies were reported. The energy gap shows that the charge transfer occurs within the molecule. Thermodynamic parameters of the title compound were calculated at various temperatures.

Redox cycloisomerization approach to 1,2-dihydropyridines

The phosphine-catalyzed synthesis of 1,2-dihydropyridines via an alkyne isomerization/electrocyclization sequence is described. Propargylidenecarbamate substrates were prepared following a one-pot procedure between a terminal alkyne, a benzonitrile, and a chloroformate in the presence of trimethylaluminum. This methodology gives access to a diverse set of 2,6-disubstituted 1,2-dihydropyridines in high yield. The products can be easily converted into substituted piperidines or pyridines, and this methodology was applied to the synthesis of indolizidines.

Synthesis, structural and spectral analysis of 1-(pyrazin-2-yl) piperidin-2-ol by density functional theory

The organic compound 1-(pyrazin-2-yl) piperidin-2-ol (abbreviated as PPOL) has been synthesized and characterized by IR, Raman, (1)H NMR and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The Fourier-transform Raman (3500-50cm(-1)) and infrared spectra (4000-400cm(-1)) were recorded in the solid state and interpreted by comparison with theoretical spectra derived from density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The optimized geometry, frequency and intensity of the vibrational bands of the compound was obtained by the density functional theory using 6-31G(d,p) basis set. In the optimized geometry results shows that geometry parameters are good agreement with XRD values. Stability of the molecule arising from hyper conjugative interactions, charge delocalization has been analyzed using natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis. In calculation of electronic absorption spectra, TD-DFT calculations were carried out in the both gas and solution phases. (1)H NMR chemical shifts were calculated by using the gauge-invariant atomic orbital (GIAO) method. (1)H NMR analysis is evident for O-H⋯O intermolecular interaction of the title molecule. The thermodynamic properties of the title compound have been calculated at different temperatures and the results reveal that the standard heat capacities (Cp,m), standard entropies (Sm) and standard enthalpy changes (Hm) increase with rise in temperature. In addition, HOMO and LUMO energies and the first-order hyperpolarizability have been computed.

Improving selectivity preserving affinity: new piperidine-4-carboxamide derivatives as effective sigma-1-ligands

We report the design, synthesis and binding evaluation against σ1 and σ2 receptors of a series of new piperidine-4-carboxamide derivatives variously substituted on the amide nitrogen atom. Specifically, we assessed the effects exerted on σ receptor affinity by substituting the N-benzylcarboxamide group present on a series of compounds previously synthesized in our laboratory with different cyclic or linear moieties. The synthesized compounds 2a-o were tested to estimate their affinity and selectivity toward σ1 and σ2 receptors. Very high σ1 affinity (Ki = 3.7 nM) and Kiσ2/Kiσ1 selectivity ratio (351) were found for the tetrahydroquinoline derivative 2k, featuring a 4-chlorobenzyl moiety linked to the piperidine nitrogen atom.

Halofuginone - the multifaceted molecule

Halofuginone is an analog of febrifugine-an alkaloid originally isolated from the plant Dichroa febrifuga. During recent years, halofuginone has attracted much attention because of its wide range of beneficial biological activities, which encompass malaria, cancer, and fibrosis-related and autoimmune diseases. At present two modes of halofuginone actions have been described: (1) Inhibition of Smad3 phosphorylation downstream of the TGFβ signaling pathway results in inhibition of fibroblasts-to-myofibroblasts transition and fibrosis. (2) Inhibition of prolyl-tRNA synthetase (ProRS) activity in the blood stage of malaria and inhibition of Th17 cell differentiation thereby inhibiting inflammation and the autoimmune reaction by activation of the amino acid starvation and integrated stress responses. This review deals with the history and origin of this natural product, its synthesis, its known modes of action, and it's various biological activities in pre-clinical animal models and in humans.