Novel selective phosphodiesterase (PDE4) inhibitors. 4. Resolution, absolute configuration, and PDE4 inhibitory activity of cis-tetra- and cis-hexahydrophthalazinones

Recently, we reported that 4-catechol-substituted cis-(+/-)-4a,5,6,7,8,8a-hexa- and cis-(+/-)-4a,5,8,8a-tetrahydro-2H-phthalazin-1-ones show potent inhibition of phosphodiesterase (PDE4) activity, while the corresponding trans racemic mixtures exhibit only weak to moderate activity. To determine the absolute configuration and PDE4 inhibitory activity of the individual cis-enantiomers, several optically active phthalazinones have been synthesized. The enantiomers of the various gamma-keto acids, used as starting materials, were resolved in a classical way by the formation of diastereomeric salts, and each was converted to optically active phthalazinone in an enantioselective manner. The absolute configuration of the (+)-enantiomer of cis-hexahydrophthalazinone (+)-12 was determined by X-ray crystallography. The carbon atoms at the 4a and 8a positions were found to have the S- and R-configuration, respectively. In the present series of hexa- and tetrahydrophthalazinones, stereoselectivity for PDE4 inhibition is observed; the cis-(+)-enantiomers of the phthalazinones display high inhibitory activity, whereas their (-)-counterparts exhibit only weak to moderate activity. It is likely that all cis-(+)-phthalazinones have a (4aS,8aR)-configuration and vice versa for the cis-(-)-analogues. In the current series, the N-adamantan-2-yl analogue (+)-14 shows the most potent inhibition of PDE4 (pIC(50) = 9.3); the corresponding (-)-enantiomer is 250-fold less active. In addition, the N-substituted tetrahydrophthalazinones under study were investigated for their in vivo antiinflammatory activities by examining the suppression of arachidonic acid (AA) induced mouse ear edema formation. In this assay analogues (+)-14 and (+)-15 were found to be potent antiinflammatory agents showing about 50% inhibition at 30 micromol/kg po.

Novel selective PDE4 inhibitors. 3. In vivo antiinflammatory activity of a new series of N-substituted cis-tetra- and cis-hexahydrophthalazinones

The synthesis and biological activities of a series of N-substituted cis-4a,5,6,7,8,8a-hexa- and cis-4a,5,8,8a-tetrahydro-2H-phthalazin-1-ones are described. It was found that compounds bearing a cycloalkyl group at the 2-position exhibit the highest PDE4 inhibitory activities (pIC(50) = 8.6-9.4). The N-cycloheptyl- and N-adamantanyltetrahydrophthalazinones (7h, 8, 10, 11) show high in vivo antiinflammatory activities after oral application. Additionally, some phthalazinones were found to exhibit potent suppression of LPS-induced TNFalpha release and show moderate potency against fMLP-stimulated production of ROS.

Phthalazine PDE4 inhibitors. Part 3: the synthesis and in vitro evaluation of derivatives with a hydrogen bond acceptor

This communication describes the synthesis and in vitro evaluation of a novel and potent series of phthalazine phosphodiesterase type (IV) (PDE4) inhibitors. The interaction with two distinct polar binding sites allowed us to eliminate the cyclopentyloxy substitution from rolipram-like analogues.

Synthesis of imidazo[2,1-a]phthalazines, potential inhibitors of p38 MAP kinase. Prediction of binding affinities of protein ligands

Based upon molecular modeling, the pharmacophore of potential inhibitors of p38 MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinases) is discussed and the predictive binding affinities are calculated. Syntheses of original diarylimidazo[2,1-a]phthalazines obtained by Suzuki coupling are described.

Novel selective PDE4 inhibitors. 2. Synthesis and structure-activity relationships of 4-aryl-substituted cis-tetra- and cis-hexahydrophthalazinones

A series of 4-aryl-substituted cis-4a,5,8,8a-tetra- and cis-4a,5,6,7,8,8a-hexahydro-2H-phthalazin-1-ones with high inhibitory activity toward cAMP-specific phosphodiesterase (PDE4) was synthesized. To study structure-activity relationships various substituents were introduced to the 2-, 3-, and 4-positions of the 4-phenyl ring. Substitution at the 4-position of the phenyl ring was restricted to a methoxy group, probably due to unfavorable steric interactions of larger groups with the binding site. The introduction of many alkoxy substituents including distinct ring systems and functional groups was allowed to the 3-position. It was found that in general the cis-4a,5,8,8a-tetrahydro-2H-phthalazin-1-ones are more potent than their hexahydrophthalic counterparts, the best activity residing in (4-imidazol-1-yl-phenoxy)butoxy analogue 16o (pIC(50) = 9.7).

Novel selective PDE4 inhibitors. 1. Synthesis, structure-activity relationships, and molecular modeling of 4-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-2H-phthalazin-1-ones and analogues

A number of 6-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-4,5-dihydro-2H-pyridazin-3-ones and a novel series of 4-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-2H-phthalazin-1-ones were prepared and tested on the cGMP-inhibited phosphodiesterase (PDE3) and cAMP-specific phosphodiesterase (PDE4) enzymes. All tested compounds were found to specifically inhibit PDE4 except for pyridazinone 3b, which showed moderate PDE4 (pIC(50) = 6.5) as well as PDE3 (pIC(50) = 6.6) inhibitory activity. In both the pyridazinone and phthlazinone series it was found that N-substitution is beneficial for PDE4 inhibition, whereas in the pyridazinone series it also accounts for PDE4 selectivity. In the phthalazinone series, the cis-4a,5,6,7,8,8a-hexahydrophthalazinones and their corresponding 4a,5,8,8a-tetrahydro analogues showed potent PDE4 inhibitory potency (10/11c,d: pIC(50) = 7.6-8.4). A molecular modeling study revealed that the cis-fused cyclohexa(e)ne rings occupy a region in space different from that occupied by the other fused (un)saturated hydrocarbon rings applied; we therefore assume that the steric interactions of these rings with the binding site play an important role in enzyme inhibition.

Cytotoxicity of 2-ethenyl-2,3-dihydrophthalazine-1,4-diones in murine and human tumor cultured cells

2-Etheny1-2,3-dihydrophthalazine-1,4-diones were successfully synthesized and proved to be effective cytotoxic agents against the growth of suspended murine and human leukemias and lymphomas. Selected compounds were also active in human HeLa uterine carcinoma, suspended effusion breast MCF-7 and glioma HS683 screens. These agents suppressed P388 lymphocytic leukemia DNA synthesis after 60 min at 100 microM. Their target appeared to be the de novo synthesis pathway with significant inhibition of the activities of both regulatory enzymes of the pathway, i.e. PRPP-amide transferase and IMP dehydrogenase resulting in a reduction in the d[NTP] pool levels for DNA incorporation. The compounds did not affect de novo pyrimidine synthesis and its regulatory enzymes. Very minor reduction by the agents was noted for the nucleoside kinases and the DNA and RNA polymerase activities within 60 min. DNA was not a target of the agents in that there was no alkylation of the nucleotide bases, intercalation between base pairs or cross-linking of the DNA strands; however, the agents did cause P388 DNA strand scission after 24 h at 100 microM.

Phthalazine PDE4 inhibitors. Part 2: the synthesis and biological evaluation of 6-methoxy-1,4-disubstituted derivatives

This communication describes the synthesis and in vitro evaluation of a novel and potent series of phosphodiesterase type IV (PDE4) inhibitors. The compounds described present substituents in position 4 of the phthalazine ring to replace the commonly observed cyclopentyloxy moiety of rolipram analogues. Preliminary evidences of reduced side effects compared to standards and improved pharmacokinetic properties for selected derivatives are also reported.

The synthesis and biological evaluation of a novel series of phthalazine PDE4 inhibitors I

This communication describes the synthesis and in vitro evaluation of a novel and potent series of phosphodiesterase type IV (PDE4) inhibitors. The compounds described represent conformationally constrained analogues of RP 73401, Piclamilast. Preliminary evidences of reduced side effects of II compared to standards are also reported.

Synthesis and anticonvulsant activity of novel and potent 6,7-methylenedioxyphthalazin-1(2H)-ones

In this paper, we describe the synthesis of a series of novel substituted 4-aryl-6,7-methylenedioxyphthalazin-1(2H)-ones. The anticonvulsant activity of these compounds against audiogenic seizures was evaluated in DBA/2 mice after intraperitoneal (ip) injection. Most of these derivatives are more active than 1-(4-aminophenyl)-4-methyl-7,8-methylenedioxy-5H-2,3-benzodiazepine (1, GYKI 52466), a well-known noncompetitive AMPA receptor antagonist. As deduced by the rotarod test, all the compounds exhibit a toxicity lower than that of 1. Within the series of derivatives submitted to investigation, 4-(4-aminophenyl)-2-butylcarbamoyl-6,7-methylenedioxyphthalazin -1(2H)-one (21) proved to be the most active compound and is 11-fold more potent than 1 (i.e., ED50 3.25 micromol/kg for 21 versus ED50 35.8 micromol/kg for 1). When compared to 1, compound 21 as well as its analogue 4-(4-aminophenyl)-6,7-methylenedioxyphthalazin-1(2H)-one (16) show a longer lasting anticonvulsant activity. Compound 21 also effectively suppresses seizures induced in Swiss mice by maximal electroshock (MES) and pentylenetetrazole (PTZ). Furthermore, it antagonizes in vivo seizures induced by 2-amino-3-(3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazol-4-yl)propionic acid (AMPA), 2-amino-3-(3-hydroxy-5-tert-butyl-isoxazol-4-yl)propionic acid (ATPA), and kainate (KA), and its anticonvulsant activity is reversed by pretreatment with aniracetam. Using the patch-clamp technique, the capability of derivatives 16 and 21 to antagonize KA-evoked currents in primary cultures of granule neurons was tested. They behaved as antagonists, but they proved to be less effective than 1 and 1-(4-aminophenyl)-3,4-dihydro-4-methyl-3-N-methylcarbamoyl-7,8-met hylenedioxy-5H-2,3-benzodiazepine (2, GYKI 53655) to reduce the KA-evoked currents.

4-(3-Chloro-4-methoxybenzyl)aminophthalazines: synthesis and inhibitory activity toward phosphodiesterase 5

We synthesized various 4-(3-chloro-4-methoxybenzyl)aminophthalazines substituted at the 1- and 6-positions and evaluated their inhibitory activity toward phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) and their vasorelaxant activity in isolated porcine coronary arteries precontracted with prostaglandin F2alpha (10(-5) M). The preferred substituents at the 1-position of the phthalazine were 4-hydroxypiperidino, 4-hydroxymethylpiperidino, 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperidino, and 4-oxopiperidino. Among these compounds, [4-(3-chloro-4-methoxybenzyl)amino-1-(4-hydroxy)piperidino]-6-phthala zinecarbonitrile monohydrochloride (13) exhibited potent PDE5 inhibitory activity (IC(50) = 0.56 nM) with >1700-fold high selectivity over other PDE isozymes (PDE1-4). Compound 13 exhibited the most potent vasorelaxant action (EC(50) = 13 nM) in this series of compounds. Compound 13 reduced mean pulmonary arterial pressure by 29.9 +/- 3.1% when administered intravenously at 30 microg/kg to the chronically hypoxic rats and had an apparent oral bioavailability of about 19.5% in rats and was selected for further biological evaluation.

New anilinophthalazines as potent and orally well absorbed inhibitors of the VEGF receptor tyrosine kinases useful as antagonists of tumor-driven angiogenesis

The sprouting of new blood vessels, or angiogenesis, is necessary for any solid tumor to grow large enough to cause life-threatening disease. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the key promoters of tumor induced angiogenesis. VEGF receptors, the tyrosine kinases Flt-1 and KDR, are expressed on vascular endothelial cells and initiate angiogenesis upon activation by VEGF. 1-Anilino-(4-pyridylmethyl)-phthalazines, such as CGP 79787D (or PTK787 / ZK222584), reversibly inhibit Flt-1 and KDR with IC(50) values < 0.1 microM. CGP 79787D also blocks the VEGF-induced receptor autophosphorylation in CHO cells ectopically expressing the KDR receptor (ED(50) = 34 nM). Modification of the 1-anilino moiety afforded derivatives with higher selectivity for the VEGF receptor tyrosine kinases Flt-1 and KDR compared to the related receptor tyrosine kinases PDGF-R and c-Kit. Since these 1-anilino-(4-pyridylmethyl)phthalazines are orally well absorbed, these compounds qualify for further profiling and as candidates for clinical evaluation.

[New derivatives of 1-methyl-phthalazine with antimicrobial and fungistatic action]

In this paper we present the antimicrobial and antifungical action of some new salts of 1-methyl-phtalaziniums and their corresponding ylids. We also present conclusions concerning the relation between structure and biological activity. The test was performed using the diffusimetric method with rustless steel cylinders based on the diffusion on the tested substances on gelose surface. The salts of 1-methyl-phtalaziniums are always more active comparatively than their corresponding ylids. All the compounds but not all derivatives are more active on the Candida albicans.

Novel, potent, and selective phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors as antiasthmatic agents: synthesis and biological activities of a series of 1-pyridylnaphthalene derivatives

The structural requirements for potent and selective PDE4 inhibition were revealed in a 1-pyridylnaphthalene series, and the best compound (3kg, T-2585.HCl) was chosen for further biological evaluation (PDE4 inhibition IC50 = 0.13 nM, selectivity PDE3/4 ratio = 14 000). Compound 3kg showed potent antispasmogenic activities (ED50 = 0.063 mg/kg for reduction of antigen-induced bronchoconstriction, intravenously; ED50 = 0.033 mg/kg for reduction of histamine-induced bronchoconstriction, intraduodenally) in guinea pigs with little cardiovascular effects. Furthermore, 3kg induced significantly weaker emetic effects than RP73401 after oral administration in ferrets and intravenous administration in dogs (3kg, none of 4 ferrets vomited at a dose of 10 mg/kg, po and none of 8 dogs vomited at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg, iv; RP73401, 4 of 8 ferrets vomited at a dose of 3 mg/kg, po and 6 of 8 dogs vomited at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg, iv); that is compatible with the lower affinity for the high-affinity rolipram binding site (3kg, 2.6 nM; RP73401, 0. 85 nM). This may imply that 3kg has an improved therapeutic ratio because of a broad margin between the Ki value of binding affinity and the IC50 value of PDE4 inhibition (ratio = 0.050).

4-Benzylamino-1-chloro-6-substituted phthalazines: synthesis and inhibitory activity toward phosphodiesterase 5

We synthesized various 4-benzylamino-1-chloro-6-substituted phthalazines (15) and 4-benzylamino-1-chloro-7-substituted phthalazines (16) and evaluated their inhibitory activity toward phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) purified from porcine platelets. The PDE5-inhibitory activities of 15 were greater than those of the isomers (16). The preferred substituent at the 4-position of phthalazine was a (3-chloro-4-methoxybenzyl)amino group, and those at the 6-position were cyano, nitro, and trifluoromethyl groups. Compounds 15a (IC50 = 4.8 nM), 15f (3.5 nM), and 15i (5.3 nM) were more potent inhibitors than E4021 (8.6 nM). Compounds 15a and 15f also showed vasorelaxant activity in isolated porcine coronary arteries precontracted with prostaglandin F2alpha (10(-5) M). The EC50 values for vasorelaxant action of 15a, 15f, and E4021 were 150, 160, and 980 nM, respectively. These results show that novel PDE5 inhibitors possessing a potent vasorelaxant effect may exist among phthalazine derivatives.

A pseudopeptide incorporating the tetrahydrophthalazine nucleus, a constrained aza analog of phenylalanine

Replacement of the alpha-carbon with a nitrogen in alpha-amino acids gives rise to azaamino acids. Most examples of azaamino acids that have been incorporated into peptides are linear analogs, in which conformational effects are restricted to the immediate vicinity of the urea bond. In contrast to the linear azaamino acids, the heterocyclic analogs might be expected to exhibit stronger conformational preferences, but examples of this class of azaamino acids are very limited. We synthesized tetrahydrophthalazine (THPhth) as a constrained phenylalanine analog and elaborated it into the model pseudotripeptide N-¿([N-alanyl]-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-phthalazinyl)carbonyl)¿-L-alan ine (1). As shown by NMR studies, tetrahydrophthalazine 1A has a secondary structure in which psi THphth is fixed at 16-18 degrees and there are two equal populations of cis and trans amide bonds from the N-terminal alanine.

Novel antiasthmatic agents with dual activities of thromboxane A2 synthetase inhibition and bronchodilation. IV. 2-[2-(1-Imidazolyl)ethyl]-4-(3-pyridyl)-1(2H)-phthalazinones

Synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of several compounds related to 2-[2-(1-imidazolyl)ethyl]-4-(3-pyridyl)-1(2H)-phthalazinones are described. The phenyl moiety of the phthalazinone skeleton was found to play an important role in both thromboxane A2 synthetase-inhibitory and bronchodilatory activities. Further, the 3-pyridyl group at the 4-position was shown to be necessary for in vivo thromboxane A2 synthetase-inhibitory activity.

Cyclic benzamides as mixed dopamine D2/serotonin 5-HT2 receptor antagonists: potential atypical antipsychotic agents

A series of novel 4-(4-(1,2-benzisothiazol-3-yl)-1-piperazinyl)butyl) cyclic amides was prepared and evaluated as potential antipsychotic agents. The target compounds were examined in vitro for their binding affinities to the dopamine D2, serotonin 5-HT2, and serotonin 5-HT1a receptors and in vivo for their ability to antagonize the apomorphine-induced climbing response in mice. Derivatives that exhibited good D2/5-HT2 selectivity in vitro and good potency in vivo were selected for further evaluation in tests designed to assess their potential extrapyramidal side effect liability. Structural modifications discussed herein focus on the bicyclic amide subunit leading to the preparation of a variety of heterocyclic ring systems (i.e., phthalimide, isoindolinone, isoquinolinone, benzazepinone, indazolone, phthalazinone, 4-methyl phthalazinone, benzisothiazolone 1,1-dioxide, benzotriazinone, homophthalimide, benzisothiazolone, phthalazinedione, quinazoline, and saturated phthalazinones). The potency and selectivity within this series was found to be dependent on ring size, nature of the covalent linking unit, relative position of the functional groups, degree of unsaturation, and relative stereochemistry. In general, the cyclic benzamides examined in this investigation exhibited receptor binding activities indicative of potential atypical antipsychotic agents. Several of these derivatives possessed in vivo activities that suggest they would be useful in the treatment of schizophrenia and would have a low propensity to induce extrapyramidal side effects. Two potent analogues were identified and selected for further evaluation: 2-(4-(4-(1,2-benzisothiazol-3-yl)-1-piperazinyl)butyl)-1-isoind olinone (31) and (+-)-cis-2-(4-(4-(1,2-benzisothiazol-3-yl)-1-piperazinyl)-butyl)- 4a,5,6,7,8,8a-hexahydro-1(2H)-phthalazinone hydrochloride (52).

Novel antiasthmatic agents with dual activities of thromboxane A2 synthetase inhibition and bronchodilation. III. 4-[2-(5-ethyl-2-thienyl)]-2'-[2-(1-imidazolyl)ethyl]-1(2H)- phthalazinones

Synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of novel 4-[2-(5-ethyl-2-thienyl)]-2-[2-(1-imidazolyl)ethyl]-1(2H)-phthalazinone s are described. The phenyl moiety of the phthalazinone skeleton was found to play an important role in both thromboxane A2 synthetase-inhibitory and bronchodilatory activities.

Synthesis and action on the central nervous system of some N2-substituted cinnoline derivatives

Alkylation of 4-hydroxycinnolines using ethyl bromoacetate resulted in N2-substituted acetic acids. These acids were converted to esters and amides. Some of the obtained acids were reduced with zinc dust to give 4-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-cinnolineacetic acids. Several of the compounds were tested for their effect on central nervous system.

Novel antiasthmatic agents with dual activities of thromboxane A2 synthetase inhibition and bronchodilation. 2. 4-(3-Pyridyl)-1(2H)-phthalazinones

A series of novel 4-(3-pyridyl)-1(2H)-phthalazinone derivatives which possess dual activities of thromboxane A2 (TXA2) synthetase inhibition and bronchodilation was synthesized, and their pharmacological activities were evaluated. While the length and the bulk of 2-alkyl substituents had no influence on either activity, the 2-substituents with polar groups reduced bronchodilatory activity. Furthermore, we introduced heteroaromatic nuclei into the 4-position of the phthalazinone and found that 1-imidazolyl (13a) and 5-thiazolyl (16b and 16c) derivatives were as active as the parent 3-pyridyl compound 5b. These findings suggest that heteroaromatic nuclei at the 4-position of phthalazinones play a critical role in TXA2 synthetase inhibition. Additionally, the hydrophobicity of the compounds was found to exert a marked influence on bronchodilatory activity. These observations led to the selection of 2-ethyl-4-(3-pyridyl)-1(2H)-phthalazinone (5b) (KK-505) and 2-methyl-4-(5-thiazolyl)-1(2H)-phthalazinone (16b) (KK-562) for further studies. Although their precise mechanism of action remains unclear, this series of novel phthalazinone derivatives represents a new class of antiasthma agents with dual activities.

Novel antiasthmatic agents with dual activities of thromboxane A2 synthetase inhibition and bronchodilation. 1. 2-[2-(1-Imidazolyl)alkyl]-1(2H)-phthalazinones

A number of 4-substituted 2-[omega-(1-imidazolyl)alkyl]-1(2H)-phthalazinones were synthesized in order to develop agents possessing both thromboxane A2 synthetase inhibitory and bronchodilatory activities. The pharmacological evaluation of these compounds disclosed that they have both activities to various extents. Both activities were slightly dependent on the length of the 2-substituents and largely affected by the nature of the 4-substituents. Compounds bearing phenyl and thienyl groups exhibited relatively high and well-rounded activities. Among these compounds, 12j and 15f were found to be the most effective agents having well-rounded activities in vitro and in vivo. Introduction of a carboxyl group reduced both activities contrary to our expectation. 4-(3-Pyridyl)phthalazinone 18b was of particular interest because of unexpectedly high in vivo activities in spite of an absence of significant in vitro activities.

Reaction of 1-aminophthalazines with alpha-halocarbonyl compounds: imidazo[2,1-a]phthalazines and their benzodiazepine receptor activities

The one-pot synthesis and the benzodiazepine receptor binding activity of some imidazo[2,1-a]phthalazines bearing different substituents at position-2 and/or 3 and/or 6 is reported. The dissimilar binding results of the reported compounds are discussed in relation to the nature and/or position of the substituents on the tricyclic ring system.

Potent, orally active aldose reductase inhibitors related to zopolrestat: surrogates for benzothiazole side chain

A broad structure-activity program was undertaken in search of effective surrogates for the key benzothiazole side chain of the potent aldose reductase inhibitor, zopolrestat (1). A structure-driven approach was pursued, which spanned exploration of three areas: (1) 5/6 fused heterocycles such as benzoxazole, benzothiophene, benzofuran, and imidazopyridine; (2) 5-membered heterocycles, including oxadiazole, oxazole, thiazole, and thiadiazole, with pendant aryl groups, and (3) thioanilide as a formal equivalent of benzothiazole. Several benzoxazole- and 1,2,4-oxadiazole-derived analogues were found to be potent inhibitors of aldose reductase from human placenta and were orally active in preventing sorbitol accumulation in rat sciatic nerve, in an acute test of diabetic complications. 3,4-Dihydro-4-oxo-3-[(5,7-difluoro-2-benzoxazolyl)methyl]-1- phthalazineacetic acid (124) was the best of the benzoxazole series (IC50 = 3.2 x 10(-9) M); it suppressed accumulation of sorbitol in rat sciatic nerve by 78% at an oral dose of 10 mg/kg. Compound 139, 3,4-dihydro-4-oxo-3-[[(2-fluorophenyl)-1,2,4- oxadiazol-5-yl]methyl]-1-phthalazineacetic acid, with IC50 less than 1.0 x 10(-8) M, caused a 69% reduction in sorbitol accumulation in rat sciatic nerve at an oral dose of 25 mg/kg. The thioanilide side chain featured in 3-[2-[[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]amino]-2-thioxoethyl]-3,4-dihydro - 4-oxo-1-phthalazineacetic acid (195) proved to be an effective surrogate for benzothiazole. Compound 195 was highly potent in vitro (IC50 = 5.2 x 10(-8) M) but did not show oral activity when tested at 100 mg/kg. Additional structure-activity relationships encompassing a variety of heterocyclic side chains are discussed.

Synthesis of new derivatives of 4-hydroxy-(2H)-phthalazinone and phthalazino-1,4-(2H)(3H)-dione

N1-Phthaloyl-N3-substituted thiosemicarbazide (II-IV) in concentrated sulphuric acid were isomerized. New derivatives of 4-hydroxy-(2H)-phthalazinone and phthalazino-1,4-(2H)(3H)-dione were obtained.

Studies on antiatherosclerotic agents. Synthesis and inhibitory activities on platelet aggregation of 4-aryl derivatives of 7-ethoxycarbonyl-6,8-dimethyl-1 (2H)-phthalazinone

4-Aryl derivatives of 7-ethoxycarbonyl-6,8-dimethyl-1(2H)-phthalazinone and related derivatives were newly synthesized in order to test for their inhibitory activities on platelet aggregation. 4-(2-Anisyl) compound and the corresponding 1-chloro derivative demonstrated significant activity.

Studies on antiatherosclerotic agents. Synthesis of 5-substituted derivatives of 7-ethoxycarbonyl-6,8-dimethyl-1(2H)-phthalazinone.off

Several 5-substituted derivatives of 7-ethoxycarbonyl-6,8-dimethyl-1(2H)- phthalazinone were prepared by means of nitration, reductive amination, and diazonium decomposition. The substituents introduced included NO2, NH2, F, Cl, CN. Among the derivatives, the fluorine compound was obtained only in poor yield because intramolecular cyclization occurred predominantly.

Studies on antiatherosclerotic agents. Synthesis of 7-ethoxycarbonyl-4-formyl-6,8-dimethyl-1(2H)-phthalazinone derivatives and related compounds

Derivatives of 7-ethoxycarbonyl-4-formyl-6,8-dimethyl-1(2H)-phthalazinone and closely related compounds were synthesized using Wittig and epoxidation reactions. Ring opening amination of the epoxides were carried out using dimethylaluminum amide reagents under mild reaction conditions. beta-Keto ester and beta-diketone moieties were introduced through diazo derivatives. These moieties were reacted with hydrazine hydrate to produce 4-pyrazolyl derivatives. The derivatives were tested for their inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation, and their relaxing effect on blood vessels.

Reactions of 4-aryl-1-hydrazinophthalazines with carbonyl compounds

Reaction of 1-hydrazino-4-phenylphthalazine and 4-benzyl-1-hydrazinophthalazine with different carbonyl compounds are described. With oxalic acid, the two cyclic amidrazones reacted to give 6-aryl-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazines. Reaction with diethyl oxalate, however, afforded the corresponding 7-aryl-3,4-dioxo-1,2,4-triazino[3,4-a]phthalazines. With pyruvic acid, ethyl pyruvate, or methyl phenyl glyoxylate the corresponding hydrazones were obtained which were cyclized to 7-aryl-3-methyl or 7-aryl-3-phenyl-1,2,4-triazino[3,4-a]phthalazines, respectively. Whereas the reaction of the two cyclic amidrazones with acetylacetone or ethyl phenyl propiolate gave pyrazole derivatives, their reaction with ethyl acetoacetate gave 6-aryl-3-methyl-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazines. The results of biological testing of representative examples of the prepared compounds as insecticides and nematicides are reported.

Novel, potent aldose reductase inhibitors: 3,4-dihydro-4-oxo-3-[[5-(trifluoromethyl)-2-benzothiazolyl] methyl]-1-phthalazineacetic acid (zopolrestat) and congeners

A new working hypothesis that there is a hitherto unrecognized binding site on the aldose reductase (AR) enzyme with strong affinity for benzothiazoles was pursued for the design of novel, potent aldose reductase inhibitors (ARIs). The first application of this hypothesis led to a novel series of 3,4-dihydro-4-oxo-3-(benzothiazolylmethyl)-1-phthalazineacetic+ + + acids. The parent of this series (207) was a potent inhibitor of AR from human placenta (IC50 = 1.9 x 10(-8) M) and was orally active in preventing sorbitol accumulation in rat sciatic nerve, in an acute test of diabetic complications (ED50 = 18.5 mg/kg). Optimization of this lead through medicinal chemical rationale, including analogy from other drug series, led to more potent congeners of 207 and culminated in the design of 3,4-dihydro-4-oxo-3-[[5-(trifluoromethyl)-2-benzothiazolyl] methyl]-1-phthalazineacetic acid (216, CP-73,850, zopolrestat). Zopolrestat was found to be more potent than 207, both in vitro and in vivo. Its IC50 against AR and ED50 in the acute test were 3.1 x 10(-9)M and 3.6 mg/kg, respectively. Its ED50s in reversing already elevated sorbitol accumulation in rat sciatic nerve, retina, and lens in a chronic test were 1.9, 17.6, and 18.4 mg/kg, respectively. It was well absorbed in diabetic patients, resulting in high blood level, showed a highly favorable plasma half-life (27.5 h), and is undergoing further clinical evaluation. An assortment of synthetic methods used for the construction of benzothiazoles, including an efficient synthesis of zopolrestat, is described. Structure-activity relationships in the new series are discussed.

[Synthesis and pharmacologic testing of 1-oxo-pyridazine and 1-oxo-phthalazine-2-acetic acid derivatives]

The title compounds, starting from variously substituted beta-benzoylpropionic or beta-benzoylbenzoic acids, were prepared by cyclocondensation with alpha-ethylhydrazinoacetate monohydrochloride and subsequent alcaline hydrolysis or aminolysis of the 2-carbethoxymethyl-1,2,5,6-tetrahydro-1-oxo-pyridazines or 1,2-dihydro-1-oxo-phthalazines respectively. The 1-oxo-phthalazines 42 and 34 have a weak anticonvulsive effect. Like a large number of the other synthezized compounds, they show a central sedative component and are relatively nontoxic.

Studies on cardiotonic agents. II. Synthesis of novel phthalazine and 1,2,3-benzotriazine derivatives

A series of phthalazine and 1,2,3-benzotriazine derivatives which have heterocyclylpiperidino groups was synthesized and tested for cardiotonic activity in anesthetized dogs. Several 6,7-dimethoxyphthalazine derivatives showed relatively potent cardiotonic activity comparable to that of amrinone.

Synthesis and pharmacological study of 4,4a,5,6-tetrahydro-4a-substituted-benzo(h)cinnolin-3(2H)ones

A series of 4,4a,5,6- tetrahydro-4a-substituted-benzo(h)cinnolin-3(2H)-one (II a-e) (III a) were synthesized and evaluated pharmacologically in comparison with the 4a-unsubstituted congeners (I), which were reported to be potent antithrombotic and antihypertensive agents. All the test compounds, apart from (II e) (R2 = OCH3) and (III a) (R1,R2 = H), displayed significant antihypertensive activity. In particular (II a) (R1,R2 = H) was more active than the unsubstituted analogue (I a). Moreover (II d) (R1 = OCH3), (II e) (R2 = OCH3) and (III a) showed antithrombotic activity comparable to or higher than that of ASA.

[Synthesis and physicochemical and biological characteristics of phthalazine derivatives]

Further studies in view of obtaining new stable phtalasiniuilides present the synthesis and physico-chemical and biological characterization of certain derivatives obtained through the action of p-phenyl-phenacyl and p-nitro-phenacyl bromides upon R-phtalasine. The structure of the new products was confirmed by physicochemical and spectral analyses. The preliminary biological tests showed a moderate antimicrobial activity of certain studies compounds.

Benzodiazepine receptor ligands. Synthesis and preliminary pharmacological evaluation of some 3,7-disubstituted-4H-[1,2,4]triazino[3,4-a]phthalazines and 3,7-disubstituted-4H-[1,2,4]triazino[3,4-a]phthalazine-4-ones

Some disubstituted triazinophthalazines and traizinophthalazinones were synthesized and tested in vitro for inhibition of the 3H-diazepam (3H-DZ) specific binding to benzodiazepine receptors (BZRs) in membranes from synaptosomes of rat brain and in vivo for their effects on the conditioned behaviour (rat). These compounds showed Ki values (nM) in the in vitro test ranging from 220 to more than 3000 and some of them had approximate ED50S of 30 mg/kg, i.p. (rat) in the conditioned avoidance behaviour test (CR2).

Benzodiazepine receptor ligands. Synthesis and in vitro binding activity of some 6-substituted-3-aryl-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazines

Some 3-aryl-6-hydroxymethyl-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazines (VI a,b) and 3-aryl-6-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazines (XVIII) have been synthesized. From (VI b) some 3-aryl-6-(alkylamino)methyl- and 3-aryl-6-(alkoxy)methyl-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazines have been prepared and evaluated in vitro for their ability to inhibit selective 3H-diazepam (3H-DZ) binding to benzodiazepine-receptors (BZRs) from homogenates of synaptosomes from rat brains. Several compounds have been shown to displace 3H-DZ from BZRs with Ki (nM) values ranging from 2.2 to 88, comparable to those of the reference drugs including Diazepam.

Benzodiazepine receptor ligands. Synthesis and preliminary pharmacological evaluation of 2-aminoalkyl-8-chloro- and 2-aryl-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazine-3(2H)-ones

Some 2-aminoalkyl-8-chloro- and 2-aryl-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]-phthalazine-3-(2H)-ones were synthesized and preliminarily tested in vitro and in vivo as potential benzodiazepine-receptor (BZRs) ligands. 2-Aryl-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]-phthalazine-3(2H)-ones displaced in vitro 3H-diazepam (3H-DZ) from rat brain specific binding sites with Ki (nM) comparable to DZ and chlordiazepoxide used as reference compounds. The specific binding of the triazolones of this study was not enhanced in vitro by 4-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and in vivo they did not show any activity in counteracting the pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) induced convulsions (mice). One of these compounds (IV a) antagonized the effects of DZ in the bicuculline (BIC) induced convulsions test (mice) and the DZ induced muscle relaxant effects in the horizontal wire test.

Benzodiazepine receptor ligands. Synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of 6-aryl-3,8-disubstituted-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazines

A series of 6-aryl-3,8-disubstituted-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazines was synthesised starting from suitable o-benzoylbenzoic acids. The compounds were tested in vitro for inhibition of the specific binding of 3H-Diazepam to benzodiazepine receptors in preparations of membranes from rat brain synaptosomes. None of the compounds was notably active in this test.

Benzodiazepine receptor ligands. Synthesis and preliminary pharmacological evaluation of some 3-aryl-6-thioalkyl-, 3-aryl-6-alkylsulphinyl-, 3-aryl-6-alkylsulphonyl-, and 3-aryl-6-alkoxy-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazines

A series of 3-aryl-6-alkoxy- and some 3-aryl-6-thioalkyl-, 3-aryl-6-alkylsulphinyl-, and 3-aryl-6-alkylsulphonyl-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazines were synthesised and tested for inhibition of the in vitro binding of 3H-Diazepam to benzodiazepine receptors in membranes isolated from rat brain synaptosomes. 6-Alkoxy-3-(4'-methoxy)phenyl-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-a]phthalazines were more active than or as active as diazepam in the binding assay (Ki nM) but unlike diazepam their binding to the benzodiazepine receptors was not enhanced by 4-aminobutyric acid. These compounds did not antagonize pentylenetetrazole induced convulsions and were inactive in modifying the conditioned behaviour of rats. Compound (II a) counteracted the muscle relaxant effects of diazepam (traction test). These results suggest that (II a) may be a benzodiazepine receptor antagonist.

7-(Ethoxycarbonyl)-6,8-dimethyl-2-phenyl-1(2H)-phthalazinone derivatives: synthesis and inhibitory effects on platelet aggregation

7-(Ethoxycarbonyl)-6,8-dimethyl-2-phenyl-1(2H)-phthalazinone derivatives and several analogues were synthesized and their inhibitory effects on platelet aggregation were evaluated. Structure-activity relationships are discussed. All synthesized compounds showed no appreciable effect on platelet aggregation induced by adenosine diphosphate, but most of them inhibited effectively the arachidonic acid induced platelet aggregation. The parent compound, 2-phenyl derivatives, and ortho-substituted 2-phenyl derivatives show the most potent inhibition of all compounds.

Synthesis of some potential antihypertensive phthalazinyl- and quinoxalinylguanidines

A series of phthalazinyl- and quinoxalinylguanidines has been synthesized and evaluated for potential antihypertensive activity. Unsubstituted guanidines were prepared by treating the appropriate intermediate chloro compounds with guanidine free base. Substituted guanidines were prepared by treating the cyanamides 9 and 16 with the appropriate amine; with hydrazines, cyanamide 9 gave the triazoles 14 and 15. Moderate falls in blood pressure were observed with compounds 10, 11, 14, and 15. The triazole 15 caused a 25% fall in heart rate. Some of the compounds (10, 11, 13, and 18) displayed weak alpha-adrenoceptor antagonist properties in vitro, and this activity was confirmed in the pithed rat (in vivo).

[Phtalazinium lures (VIII). Action of p-nitrophenacyl bromide on phtalazine]

Continuing our investigations for obtaining stable diazinium-ylures, the conditions of obtaining and reactivity of p-nitrophenacyl-phtalazinium methylides were studied. This ylure leads by 3+2 dipolar cycloaddition with dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate and N-phenyl-malein-ymide to the respective cycloadductions. The synthetized compounds were tested biologically.