1
|
Mi L, Yan YJ, Li MY, Xu T, Namulinda T, Meerovich GA, Reshetov IV, Kogan EA, Atassi Y, Chen ZL. Synthesis and evaluation of 5,15-diaryltetrabenzoporphyrins as photosensitizers for photo-diagnosis and photodynamic activity of tumors. Bioorg Chem 2024; 151:107710. [PMID: 39146762 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a well-established treatment modality, typically conducted with single-wavelength irradiation, which may not always be optimal for varying tumor locations and sizes. To address this, photosensitizers with absorption wavelengths ranging from 550 to 760 nm are being explored. Herein, a series of 5,15-diaryltetrabenzoporphyrins (Ar2TBPs) were synthesized. All compounds displayed obvious absorption at 550-700 nm (especially at ∼668 nm), intense fluorescence, efficient generation of singlet oxygen and good photodynamic antitumor effects. Notably, compound I3 (5,15-bis[(4-carboxymethoxy)phenyl]tetrabenzoporphyrin) showed excellent cytotoxicity against Eca-109 cell line upon red light irradiation, with an IC50 value of 0.45 μM, and phototherapeutic index of 25.8. Flow cytometry revealed that I3 could induce distinct cell apoptosis. In vivo studies revealed that compound I3 selectively accumulated at tumor site and exhibited outstanding PDT effect with antitumor activity under single-time administration and light irradiation, and revealed more efficiency than the clinical photosensitizer Verteporfin. These findings underscore the considerable promise of I3 as a robust theranostic agent, offering capabilities in real-time fluorescence imaging and serving as a potent photosensitizer for personalized and precise photodynamic therapy of tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Le Mi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yi-Jia Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, Huadong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China; Shanghai Xianhui Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Man-Yi Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Tabbisa Namulinda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Gennady A Meerovich
- General Physics Institute of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Igor V Reshetov
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow 119992, Russia
| | - Evgeniy A Kogan
- I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow 119992, Russia
| | - Yomen Atassi
- Department of Applied Physics, Materials Science Laboratory, Higher Institute for Applied Science and Technology, Damascus 31983, Syria
| | - Zhi-Long Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, College of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China; Department of Pharmacy, Huadong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Addis P, Bali U, Baron F, Campbell A, Harborne S, Jagger L, Milne G, Pearce M, Rosethorne EM, Satchell R, Swift D, Young B, Unitt JF. Key aspects of modern GPCR drug discovery. SLAS DISCOVERY : ADVANCING LIFE SCIENCES R & D 2024; 29:1-22. [PMID: 37625784 DOI: 10.1016/j.slasd.2023.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest and most versatile cell surface receptor family with a broad repertoire of ligands and functions. We've learned an enormous amount about discovering drugs of this receptor class since the first GPCR was cloned and expressed in 1986, such that it's now well-recognized that GPCRs are the most successful target class for approved drugs. Here we take the reader through a GPCR drug discovery journey from target to the clinic, highlighting the key learnings, best practices, challenges, trends and insights on discovering drugs that ultimately modulate GPCR function therapeutically in patients. The future of GPCR drug discovery is inspiring, with more desirable drug mechanisms and new technologies enabling the delivery of better and more successful drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Phil Addis
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK
| | - Utsav Bali
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK
| | - Frank Baron
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK
| | - Adrian Campbell
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK
| | - Steven Harborne
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK
| | - Liz Jagger
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK
| | - Gavin Milne
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK
| | - Martin Pearce
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK
| | - Elizabeth M Rosethorne
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK
| | - Rupert Satchell
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK
| | - Denise Swift
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK
| | - Barbara Young
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK
| | - John F Unitt
- Bioscience, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Protein Science Departments, Sygnature Discovery Ltd, BioCity, Pennyfoot Street, Nottingham NG1 1GR, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ding H, Kiguchi N, Dobbins M, Romero-Sandoval EA, Kishioka S, Ko MC. Nociceptin Receptor-Related Agonists as Safe and Non-addictive Analgesics. Drugs 2023; 83:771-793. [PMID: 37209211 PMCID: PMC10948013 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01878-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
As clinical use of currently available opioid analgesics is often impeded by dose-limiting adverse effects, such as abuse liability and respiratory depression, new approaches have been pursued to develop safe, effective, and non-addictive pain medications. After the identification of the nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) peptide (NOP) receptor more than 25 years ago, NOP receptor-related agonists have emerged as a promising target for developing novel and effective opioids that modulate the analgesic and addictive properties of mu-opioid peptide (MOP) receptor agonists. In this review, we highlight the effects of the NOP receptor-related agonists compared with those of MOP receptor agonists in experimental rodent and more translational non-human primate (NHP) models and the development status of key NOP receptor-related agonists as potential safe and non-addictive analgesics. Several lines of evidence demonstrated that peptidic and non-peptidic NOP receptor agonists produce potent analgesic effects by intrathecal delivery in NHPs. Moreover, mixed NOP/MOP receptor partial agonists (e.g., BU08028, BU10038, and AT-121) display potent analgesic effects when administered intrathecally or systemically, without eliciting adverse effects, such as respiratory depression, itch behavior, and signs of abuse liability. More importantly, cebranopadol, a mixed NOP/opioid receptor agonist with full efficacy at NOP and MOP receptors, produces robust analgesic efficacy with reduced adverse effects, conferring promising outcomes in clinical studies. A balanced coactivation of NOP and MOP receptors is a strategy that warrants further exploration and refinement for the development of novel analgesics with a safer and effective profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huiping Ding
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Norikazu Kiguchi
- Department of Physiological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, 640-8156, Japan
| | - MaryBeth Dobbins
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - E Alfonso Romero-Sandoval
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Shiroh Kishioka
- Faculty of Wakayama Health Care Sciences, Takarazuka University of Medical and Health Care, Wakayama, 640-8392, Japan
| | - Mei-Chuan Ko
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Raffaele M, Kovacovicova K, Biagini T, Lo Re O, Frohlich J, Giallongo S, Nhan JD, Giannone AG, Cabibi D, Ivanov M, Tonchev AB, Mistrik M, Lacey M, Dzubak P, Gurska S, Hajduch M, Bartek J, Mazza T, Micale V, Curran SP, Vinciguerra M. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid receptor (NOP) selective ligand MCOPPB links anxiolytic and senolytic effects. GeroScience 2022; 44:463-483. [PMID: 34820764 PMCID: PMC8612119 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-021-00487-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulation of senescent cells may drive age-associated alterations and pathologies. Senolytics are promising therapeutics that can preferentially eliminate senescent cells. Here, we performed a high-throughput automatized screening (HTS) of the commercial LOPAC®Pfizer library on aphidicolin-induced senescent human fibroblasts, to identify novel senolytics. We discovered the nociceptin receptor FQ opioid receptor (NOP) selective ligand 1-[1-(1-methylcyclooctyl)-4-piperidinyl]-2-[(3R)-3-piperidinyl]-1H-benzimidazole (MCOPPB, a compound previously studied as potential anxiolytic) as the best scoring hit. The ability of MCOPPB to eliminate senescent cells in in vitro models was further tested in mice and in C. elegans. MCOPPB reduced the senescence cell burden in peripheral tissues but not in the central nervous system. Mice and worms exposed to MCOPPB also exhibited locomotion and lipid storage changes. Mechanistically, MCOPPB treatment activated transcriptional networks involved in the immune responses to external stressors, implicating Toll-like receptors (TLRs). Our study uncovers MCOPPB as a NOP ligand that, apart from anxiolytic effects, also shows tissue-specific senolytic effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Raffaele
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kristina Kovacovicova
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
- Psychogenics Inc, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | - Tommaso Biagini
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Oriana Lo Re
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Translational Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Jan Frohlich
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Sebastiano Giallongo
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - James D Nhan
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Computational Biology, Arts, and Sciences, Dornsife College of Letters, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Antonino Giulio Giannone
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Pathologic Anatomy Unit-University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniela Cabibi
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Pathologic Anatomy Unit-University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Martin Ivanov
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Anton B Tonchev
- Department of Translational Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Martin Mistrik
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Matthew Lacey
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Dzubak
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Sona Gurska
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Marian Hajduch
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Bartek
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Genome Integrity Unit, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Division of Genome Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tommaso Mazza
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo Della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sean P Curran
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular and Computational Biology, Arts, and Sciences, Dornsife College of Letters, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Manlio Vinciguerra
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic.
- Department of Translational Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute of the Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Shekhar S, Ahmed TS, Ickes AR, Haibach MC. Recent Advances in Nonprecious Metal Catalysis. Org Process Res Dev 2021. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.oprd.1c00410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shashank Shekhar
- Process Research and Development, AbbVie Inc., 1 North Waukegan Road, North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United States
| | - Tonia S. Ahmed
- Process Research and Development, AbbVie Inc., 1 North Waukegan Road, North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United States
| | - Andrew R. Ickes
- Process Research and Development, AbbVie Inc., 1 North Waukegan Road, North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United States
| | - Michael C. Haibach
- Process Research and Development, AbbVie Inc., 1 North Waukegan Road, North Chicago, Illinois 60064, United States
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ubaldi M, Cannella N, Borruto AM, Petrella M, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Soverchia L, Stopponi S, Weiss F, Cifani C, Ciccocioppo R. Role of Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ-NOP Receptor System in the Regulation of Stress-Related Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12956. [PMID: 34884757 PMCID: PMC8657682 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) is a 17-residue neuropeptide that binds the nociceptin opioid-like receptor (NOP). N/OFQ exhibits nucleotidic and aminoacidics sequence homology with the precursors of other opioid neuropeptides but it does not activate either MOP, KOP or DOP receptors. Furthermore, opioid neuropeptides do not activate the NOP receptor. Generally, activation of N/OFQ system exerts anti-opioids effects, for instance toward opioid-induced reward and analgesia. The NOP receptor is widely expressed throughout the brain, whereas N/OFQ localization is confined to brain nuclei that are involved in stress response such as amygdala, BNST and hypothalamus. Decades of studies have delineated the biological role of this system demonstrating its involvement in significant physiological processes such as pain, learning and memory, anxiety, depression, feeding, drug and alcohol dependence. This review discusses the role of this peptidergic system in the modulation of stress and stress-associated psychiatric disorders in particular drug addiction, mood, anxiety and food-related associated-disorders. Emerging preclinical evidence suggests that both NOP agonists and antagonists may represent a effective therapeutic approaches for substances use disorder. Moreover, the current literature suggests that NOP antagonists can be useful to treat depression and feeding-related diseases, such as obesity and binge eating behavior, whereas the activation of NOP receptor by agonists could be a promising tool for anxiety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Ubaldi
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Nazzareno Cannella
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Anna Maria Borruto
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Michele Petrella
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Maria Vittoria Micioni Di Bonaventura
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Laura Soverchia
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Serena Stopponi
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Friedbert Weiss
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA;
| | - Carlo Cifani
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| | - Roberto Ciccocioppo
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna Delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (M.U.); (N.C.); (A.M.B.); (M.P.); (M.V.M.D.B.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (C.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
De Neve J, Barlow TMA, Tourwé D, Bihel F, Simonin F, Ballet S. Comprehensive overview of biased pharmacology at the opioid receptors: biased ligands and bias factors. RSC Med Chem 2021; 12:828-870. [PMID: 34223156 PMCID: PMC8221262 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00041a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the main challenges in contemporary medicinal chemistry is the development of safer analgesics, used in the treatment of pain. Currently, moderate to severe pain is still treated with the "gold standard" opioids whose long-term often leads to severe side effects. With the discovery of biased agonism, the importance of this area of pharmacology has grown exponentially over the past decade. Of these side effects, tolerance, opioid misuse, physical dependence and substance use disorder (SUD) stand out, since these have led to many deaths over the past decades in both USA and Europe. New therapeutic molecules that induce a biased response at the opioid receptors (MOR, DOR, KOR and NOP receptor) are able to circumvent these side effects and, consequently, serve as more advantageous therapies with great promise. The concept of biased signaling extends far beyond the already sizeable field of GPCR pharmacology and covering everything would be vastly outside the scope of this review which consequently covers the biased ligands acting at the opioid family of receptors. The limitation of quantifying bias, however, makes this a controversial subject, where it is dependent on the reference ligand, the equation or the assay used for the quantification. Hence, the major issue in the field of biased ligands remains the translation of the in vitro profiles of biased signaling, with corresponding bias factors to in vivo profiles showing the presence or the lack of specific side effects. This review comprises a comprehensive overview of biased ligands in addition to their bias factors at individual members of the opioid family of receptors, as well as bifunctional ligands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jolien De Neve
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussels Belgium
| | - Thomas M A Barlow
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussels Belgium
| | - Dirk Tourwé
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussels Belgium
| | - Frédéric Bihel
- Laboratoire d'Innovation Thérapeutique, Faculté de Pharmacie, UMR 7200, CNRS Université de Strasbourg Illkirch France
| | - Frédéric Simonin
- Biotechnologie et Signalisation Cellulaire, UMR 7242, CNRS, Université de Strasbourg Illkirch France
| | - Steven Ballet
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Departments of Chemistry and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel Brussels Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Basak S, Dutta S, Maiti D. Accessing C2-Functionalized 1,3-(Benz)azoles through Transition Metal-Catalyzed C-H Activation. Chemistry 2021; 27:10533-10557. [PMID: 33909304 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202100475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The skeletal presence of 1,3-azoles in a variety of bioactive natural products, pharmacophores, and organic materials demands the derivatization of such heteroarenes regioselectively. Plenty of cross-coupling as well as cyclocondensation reactions have been performed to build up these skeletons but remained commercially unrealizable. A couple of severe drawbacks are faced by these traditional protocols that require a more straightforward strategy to obviate them. Transition metal-catalyzed C-H functionalization has emerged as a superior alternative in that context. 1,3-Azoles and their benzo counterparts have been extensively functionalized exploiting both noble and earth-abundant transition metals. Lately, C-2 functionalization have gained much traction due to the ease of attaining high regioselectivity and installation of synthetically manipulative functionalities. This critical review presents a bird's eye view of all major C-2 functionalization of (benz)azoles catalyzed by a diverse set of metals performed over the past 15 years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sumon Basak
- Department of Chemistry, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP, 221005, India
| | - Subhabrata Dutta
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, MH, 400076, India
| | - Debabrata Maiti
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, MH, 400076, India
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Toll L, Cippitelli A, Ozawa A. The NOP Receptor System in Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders: Discrepancies, Peculiarities and Clinical Progress in Developing Targeted Therapies. CNS Drugs 2021; 35:591-607. [PMID: 34057709 PMCID: PMC8279133 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-021-00821-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The nociceptin opioid peptide (NOP) receptor and its endogenous ligand nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) are the fourth members of the opioid receptor and opioid peptide families. Although they have considerable sequence homology to the other family members, they are not considered opioid per se because they do not have pharmacological profiles similar to the other family members. The number of NOP receptors in the brain is higher than the other family members, and NOP receptors can be found throughout the brain. Because of the widespread distribution of NOP receptors, N/OFQ and other peptide and small molecule agonists and antagonists have extensive CNS activities. Originally thought to be anti-opioid, NOP receptor agonists block some opioid activities, potentiate others, and modulate other activities not affected by traditional opiates. Because the effect of receptor activation can be dependent upon site of administration, state of the animal, and other variables, the study of NOP receptors has been fraught with contradictions and inconsistencies. In this article, the actions and controversies pertaining to NOP receptor activation and inhibition are discussed with respect to CNS disorders including pain (acute, chronic, and migraine), drug abuse, anxiety and depression. In addition, progress towards clinical use of NOP receptor-directed compounds is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Toll
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA.
| | - Andrea Cippitelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA
| | - Akihiko Ozawa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL, 33431, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Azevedo Neto J, Ruzza C, Sturaro C, Malfacini D, Pacifico S, Zaveri NT, Calò G. Functional Selectivity Does Not Predict Antinociceptive/Locomotor Impairing Potencies of NOP Receptor Agonists. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:657153. [PMID: 33859548 PMCID: PMC8042269 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.657153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ controls several functions, including pain transmission, via stimulation of the N/OFQ peptide (NOP) receptor. Here we tested the hypothesis that NOP biased agonism may be instrumental for identifying innovative analgesics. In vitro experiments were performed with the dynamic mass redistribution label free assay and the NOP non-peptide agonists Ro 65-6570, AT-403 and MCOPPB. In vivo studies were performed in wild type and β-arrestin 2 knockout mice using the formalin, rotarod and locomotor activity tests. In vitro all compounds mimicked the effects of N/OFQ behaving as potent NOP full agonists. In vivo Ro 65-6570 demonstrated a slightly higher therapeutic index (antinociceptive vs. motor impairment effects) in knockout mice. However, all NOP agonists displayed very similar therapeutic index in normal mice despite significant differences in G protein biased agonism. In conclusion the different ability of inducing G protein vs. β-arrestin 2 recruitment of a NOP agonist cannot be applied to predict its antinociceptive vs. motor impairment properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joaquim Azevedo Neto
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Ruzza
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Technopole of Ferrara, LTTA Laboratory for Advanced Therapies, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Sturaro
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Davide Malfacini
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Salvatore Pacifico
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Girolamo Calò
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Knippel JL, Ye Y, Buchwald SL. Enantioselective C2-Allylation of Benzimidazoles Using 1,3-Diene Pronucleophiles. Org Lett 2021; 23:2153-2157. [PMID: 33646778 DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.1c00306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Although substituted benzimidazoles are common substructures in bioactive small molecules, synthetic methods for their derivatization are still limited. Previously, several enantioselective allylation reactions of benzimidazoles were reported that functionalize the nucleophilic nitrogen atom. Herein we describe a reversal of this inherent selectivity toward N-allylation by using electrophilic N-OPiv benzimidazoles with readily available 1,3-dienes as nucleophile precursors. This CuH-catalyzed approach utilizes mild reaction conditions, exhibits broad functional-group compatibility, and exclusively forms the C2-allylated product with excellent stereoselectivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Levi Knippel
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Yuxuan Ye
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Stephen L Buchwald
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Identification of Potential COX-2 Inhibitors for the Treatment of Inflammatory Diseases Using Molecular Modeling Approaches. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25184183. [PMID: 32932669 PMCID: PMC7570943 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25184183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) that were developed in order to avoid the side effects of non-selective inhibitors of COX-1. Thus, the present study aims to identify new selective chemical entities for the COX-2 enzyme via molecular modeling approaches. The best pharmacophore model was used to identify compounds within the ZINC database. The molecular properties were determined and selected with Pearson’s correlation for the construction of quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) models to predict the biological activities of the compounds obtained with virtual screening. The pharmacokinetic/toxicological profiles of the compounds were determined, as well as the binding modes through molecular docking compared to commercial compounds (rofecoxib and celecoxib). The QSAR analysis showed a fit with R = 0.9617, R2 = 0.9250, standard error of estimate (SEE) = 0.2238, and F = 46.2739, with the tetra-parametric regression model. After the analysis, only three promising inhibitors were selected, Z-964, Z-627, and Z-814, with their predicted pIC50 (−log IC50) values, Z-814 = 7.9484, Z-627 = 9.3458, and Z-964 = 9.5272. All candidates inhibitors complied with Lipinski’s rule of five, which predicts a good oral availability and can be used in in vitro and in vivo tests in the zebrafish model in order to confirm the obtained in silico data.
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
The development of nonpeptide systemically active small-molecule NOP-targeted ligands has contributed tremendously to validating the NOP receptor as a promising target for therapeutics. Although a NOP-targeted compound is not yet approved for clinical use, a few NOP ligands are in clinical trials for various indications. Both successful and failed human clinical trials with NOP ligands provide opportunities for rational development of new and improved NOP-targeted compounds. A few years after the discovery of the NOP receptor in 1994, and its de-orphanization upon discovery of the endogenous peptide nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) in 1995, there was a significant effort in the pharmaceutical industry to discover nonpeptide NOP ligands from hits obtained from high-throughput screening campaigns of compound libraries. Depending on the therapeutic indication to be pursued, NOP agonists and antagonists were discovered, and some were optimized as clinical candidates. Advances such as G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) structure elucidation, functional selectivity in ligand-driven GPCR activation, and multi-targeted ligands provide new scope for the rational design of novel NOP ligands fine-tuned for successful clinical translation. This article reviews the field of nonpeptide NOP ligand drug design in the context of these exciting developments and highlights new optimized nonpeptide NOP ligands possessing interesting functional profiles, which are particularly attractive for several unmet clinical applications involving NOP receptor pharmacomodulation.
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhu W, Gao YH, Liao PY, Chen DY, Sun NN, Nguyen Thi PA, Yan YJ, Wu XF, Chen ZL. Comparison between porphin, chlorin and bacteriochlorin derivatives for photodynamic therapy: Synthesis, photophysical properties, and biological activity. Eur J Med Chem 2018; 160:146-156. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
|
15
|
Hayashi S, Ohashi K, Mihara S, Nakata E, Emoto C, Ohta A. Discovery of small-molecule nonpeptide antagonists of nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor: The studies of design, synthesis, and structure–activity relationships for (4-arylpiperidine substituted-methyl)-[bicyclic (hetero)cycloalkanobenzene] derivatives. Eur J Med Chem 2016; 114:345-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2016.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Revised: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
16
|
Zaveri NT. Nociceptin Opioid Receptor (NOP) as a Therapeutic Target: Progress in Translation from Preclinical Research to Clinical Utility. J Med Chem 2016; 59:7011-28. [PMID: 26878436 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5b01499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In the two decades since the discovery of the nociceptin opioid receptor (NOP) and its ligand, nociceptin/orphaninFQ (N/OFQ), steady progress has been achieved in understanding the pharmacology of this fourth opioid receptor/peptide system, aided by genetic and pharmacologic approaches. This research spawned an explosion of small-molecule NOP receptor ligands from discovery programs in major pharmaceutical companies. NOP agonists have been investigated for their efficacy in preclinical models of anxiety, cough, substance abuse, pain (spinal and peripheral), and urinary incontinence, whereas NOP antagonists have been investigated for treatment of pain, depression, and motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease. Translation of preclinical findings into the clinic is guided by PET and receptor occupancy studies, particularly for NOP antagonists. Recent progress in preclinical NOP research suggests that NOP agonists may have clinical utility for pain treatment and substance abuse pharmacotherapy. This review discusses the progress toward validating the NOP-N/OFQ system as a therapeutic target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nurulain T Zaveri
- Astraea Therapeutics , 320 Logue Avenue, Suite 142, Mountain View, California 94043, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Váradi A, Palmer TC, Notis Dardashti R, Majumdar S. Isocyanide-Based Multicomponent Reactions for the Synthesis of Heterocycles. Molecules 2015; 21:E19. [PMID: 26703561 PMCID: PMC4782750 DOI: 10.3390/molecules21010019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2015] [Revised: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Multicomponent reactions (MCRs) are extremely popular owing to their facile execution, high atom-efficiency and the high diversity of products. MCRs can be used to access various heterocycles and highly functionalized scaffolds, and thus have been invaluable tools in total synthesis, drug discovery and bioconjugation. Traditional isocyanide-based MCRs utilize an external nucleophile attacking the reactive nitrilium ion, the key intermediate formed in the reaction of the imine and the isocyanide. However, when reactants with multiple nucleophilic groups (bisfunctional reactants) are used in the MCR, the nitrilium intermediate can be trapped by an intramolecular nucleophilic attack to form various heterocycles. The implications of nitrilium trapping along with widely applied conventional isocyanide-based MCRs in drug design are discussed in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- András Váradi
- Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| | - Travis C Palmer
- Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| | | | - Susruta Majumdar
- Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ikawa T, Kaneko H, Masuda S, Ishitsubo E, Tokiwa H, Akai S. Trifluoromethanesulfonyloxy-group-directed regioselective (3 + 2) cycloadditions of benzynes for the synthesis of functionalized benzo-fused heterocycles. Org Biomol Chem 2015; 13:520-6. [PMID: 25378144 DOI: 10.1039/c4ob01627k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Highly regioselective (3 + 2) cycloadditions of (trifluoromethanesulfonyloxy)benzynes [(triflyloxy)benzynes] with 1,3-dipoles followed by cross-coupling reactions provided multisubstituted benzo-fused heterocycles. The triflyloxy group at the 3-position of benzynes, and even that at the remote 4-position, greatly affected the regiocontrol of the cycloaddition. These groups also served to install other substituents at their ipso-positions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Ikawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chang SD, Mascarella SW, Spangler SM, Gurevich VV, Navarro HA, Carroll FI, Bruchas MR. Quantitative Signaling and Structure-Activity Analyses Demonstrate Functional Selectivity at the Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Opioid Receptor. Mol Pharmacol 2015; 88:502-11. [PMID: 26134494 DOI: 10.1124/mol.115.099150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 07/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Comprehensive studies that consolidate selective ligands, quantitative comparisons of G protein versus arrestin-2/3 coupling, together with structure-activity relationship models for G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) systems are less commonly employed. Here we examine biased signaling at the nociceptin/orphanin FQ opioid receptor (NOPR), the most recently identified member of the opioid receptor family. Using real-time, live-cell assays, we identified the signaling profiles of several NOPR-selective ligands in upstream GPCR signaling (G protein and arrestin pathways) to determine their relative transduction coefficients and signaling bias. Complementing this analysis, we designed novel ligands on the basis of NOPR antagonist J-113,397 [(±)-1-[(3R*,4R*)-1-(cyclooctylmethyl)-3-(hydroxymethyl)-4-piperidinyl]-3-ethyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one] to explore structure-activity relationships. Our study shows that NOPR is capable of biased signaling, and further, the NOPR selective ligands MCOPPB [1-[1-(1-methylcyclooctyl)-4-piperidinyl]-2-(3R)-3-piperidinyl-1H-benzimidazole trihydrochloride] and NNC 63-0532 [8-(1-naphthalenylmethyl)-4-oxo-1-phenyl-1,3,8-triazaspiro[4.5]decane-3-acetic acid, methyl ester] are G protein-biased agonists. Additionally, minor structural modification of J-113,397 can dramatically shift signaling from antagonist to partial agonist activity. We explore these findings with in silico modeling of binding poses. This work is the first to demonstrate functional selectivity and identification of biased ligands at the nociceptin opioid receptor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven D Chang
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| | - S Wayne Mascarella
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| | - Skylar M Spangler
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| | - Vsevolod V Gurevich
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| | - Hernan A Navarro
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| | - F Ivy Carroll
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Department of Psychiatry (S.D.C.), Department of Anesthesiology, Basic Research Division (S.D.C., S.M.S., M.R.B.), Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology (M.R.B.), Washington University Pain Center (M.R.B.), Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences Program in Neuroscience (S.M.S., M.R.B.), Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; RTI International (S.W.M., H.A.N., F.I.C.), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina; and Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee (V.V.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Geiger DK, Geiger HC, Deck JM. Structure determination of three furan-substituted benzimidazoles and calculation of π-π and C-H···π interaction energies. ACTA CRYSTALLOGRAPHICA SECTION C-STRUCTURAL CHEMISTRY 2014; 70:1125-32. [PMID: 25471412 DOI: 10.1107/s205322961402405x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2014] [Accepted: 10/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The synthesis and structural characterization of 2-(furan-2-yl)-1-(furan-2-ylmethyl)-1H-benzimidazole [C16H12N2O2, (I)], 2-(furan-2-yl)-1-(furan-2-ylmethyl)-1H-benzimidazol-3-ium chloride monohydrate [C16H13N2O2(+)·Cl(-)·H2O, (II)] and the hydrobromide salt 5,6-dimethyl-2-(furan-2-yl)-1-(furan-2-ylmethyl)-1H-benzimidazol-3-ium bromide [C18H17N2O2(+)·Br(-), (III)] are described. Benzimidazole (I) displays two sets of aromatic interactions, each of which involves pairs of molecules in a head-to-tail arrangement. The first, denoted set (Ia), exhibits both intermolecular C-H···π interactions between the 2-(furan-2-yl) (abbreviated as Fn) and 1-(furan-2-ylmethyl) (abbreviated as MeFn) substituents, and π-π interactions involving the Fn substituents between inversion-center-related molecules. The second, denoted set (Ib), involves π-π interactions involving both the benzene ring (Bz) and the imidazole ring (Im) of benzimidazole. Hydrated salt (II) exhibits N-H···OH2···Cl hydrogen bonding that results in chains of molecules parallel to the a axis. There is also a head-to-head aromatic stacking of the protonated benzimidazole cations in which the Bz and Im rings of one molecule interact with the Im and Fn rings of adjacent molecules in the chain. Salt (III) displays N-H···Br hydrogen bonding and π-π interactions involving inversion-center-related benzimidazole rings in a head-to-tail arrangement. In all of the π-π interactions observed, the interacting moieties are shifted with respect to each other along the major molecular axis. Basis set superposition energy-corrected (counterpoise method) interaction energies were calculated for each interaction [DFT, M06-2X/6-31+G(d)] employing atomic coordinates obtained in the crystallographic analyses for heavy atoms and optimized H-atom coordinates. The calculated interaction energies are -43.0, -39.8, -48.5, and -55.0 kJ mol(-1) for (Ia), (Ib), (II), and (III), respectively. For (Ia), the analysis was used to partition the interaction energies into the C-H···π and π-π components, which are 9.4 and 24.1 kJ mol(-1), respectively. Energy-minimized structures were used to determine the optimal interplanar spacing, the slip distance along the major molecular axis, and the slip distance along the minor molecular axis for 2-(furan-2-yl)-1H-benzimidazole.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David K Geiger
- Department of Chemistry, SUNY-College at Geneseo, Geneseo, NY 14454, USA
| | - H Cristina Geiger
- Department of Chemistry, SUNY-College at Geneseo, Geneseo, NY 14454, USA
| | - Jared M Deck
- Department of Chemistry, SUNY-College at Geneseo, Geneseo, NY 14454, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zhang L, Drummond E, Brodney MA, Cianfrogna J, Drozda SE, Grimwood S, Vanase-Frawley MA, Villalobos A. Design, synthesis and evaluation of [(3)H]PF-7191, a highly specific nociceptin opioid peptide (NOP) receptor radiotracer for in vivo receptor occupancy (RO) studies. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2014; 24:5219-23. [PMID: 25442316 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2014.09.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Revised: 09/19/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Herein we report the identification of (+)-N-(2-((1H-pyrazol-1-yl)methyl)-3-((1R,3r,5S)-6'-fluoro-8-azaspiro[bicyclo[3.2.1]octane-3,1'-isochroman]-8-yl)propyl)-N-[(3)H]-methylacetamide {[(3)H]PF-7191 [(+)-11]} as a promising radiotracer for the nociceptin opioid peptide (NOP) receptor. (+)-11 demonstrated high NOP binding affinity (Ki = 0.1 nM), excellent selectivity over other opioid receptors (>1000×) and good brain permeability in rats (C(b,u)/C(p,u) = 0.29). Subsequent characterization of [(3)H](+)-11 showed a high level of specific binding and a brain bio-distribution pattern consistent with known NOP receptor expression. Furthermore, the in vivo brain binding of [(3)H](+)-11 in rats was inhibited by a selective NOP receptor antagonist in a dose-responsive manner. This overall favorable profile indicated that [(3)H](+)-11 is a robust radiotracer for pre-clinical in vivo receptor occupancy (RO) measurements and a possible substrate for carbon-11 labeling for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging in higher species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Neuroscience Medicinal Chemistry, Pfizer Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
| | - Elena Drummond
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Pfizer Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Michael A Brodney
- Neuroscience Medicinal Chemistry, Pfizer Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Julie Cianfrogna
- Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics and Metabolism, Pfizer Inc., Groton, CT 06340, USA
| | - Susan E Drozda
- Neuroscience Medicinal Chemistry, Pfizer Inc., Groton, CT 06340, USA
| | - Sarah Grimwood
- Neuroscience Research Unit, Pfizer Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Barve IJ, Chen CH, Kao CH, Sun CM. Regioselective piperidine-catalyzed tandem imination-isocyanate annulation to fused tricyclic triazines. ACS COMBINATORIAL SCIENCE 2014; 16:244-9. [PMID: 24646395 DOI: 10.1021/co400159z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
A novel tandem imination-isocyanate-mediated annulation was explored. Ionic liquid-immobilized 2-aminobenzimidazoles react sequentially with aldehydes and isocyanates to give highly functionalized benzimidazole-embedded triazines. The second-stage transformation revealed that the formation of triazinone functionality is entirely regioselective to allow rapid assembly of biologically interesting tricyclic skeletons. In conjunction with the application of microwave irradiation and IL support, this method provides an efficient route to access substituted benzoimidazotriazines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Indrajeet J. Barve
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300-10, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hau Chen
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300-10, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hsien Kao
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300-10, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ming Sun
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300-10, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Váradi A, Palmer TC, Notis PR, Redel-Traub GN, Afonin D, Subrath JJ, Pasternak GW, Hu C, Sharma I, Majumdar S. Three-component coupling approach for the synthesis of diverse heterocycles utilizing reactive nitrilium trapping. Org Lett 2014; 16:1668-71. [PMID: 24580074 PMCID: PMC3969103 DOI: 10.1021/ol500328t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
![]()
The
formation of an unexpected heterocyclic scaffold, a benzoxazole,
in a three-component reaction between a ketone, isocyanide, and 2-aminophenol
was encountered. This reaction involved a benzo[b][1,4]oxazine intermediate resulting from intramolecular attack of
the aminophenol hydroxyl group on the nitrilium ion. Unlike previous
literature examples, the trapped nitrilium benzo[b][1,4]oxazine could readily be subjected to ring opening with bis-nucleophiles.
The reaction scope includes simple linear as well as complex cyclic
ketones and substituted 2-aminophenols. A representative benzoxazole
product could be further diversified to yield drug-like compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- András Váradi
- Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , 1275 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Efficient design, synthesis and structure–activity relationship studies of 1-(3′-substituted propyl)-4-arylpiperidines as non-peptide antagonists of nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor: biological activities, metabolic stabilities and hERG channel bindings. Med Chem Res 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s00044-013-0595-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
25
|
Ikawa T, Takagi A, Goto M, Aoyama Y, Ishikawa Y, Itoh Y, Fujii S, Tokiwa H, Akai S. Regiocomplementary cycloaddition reactions of boryl- and silylbenzynes with 1,3-dipoles: selective synthesis of benzo-fused azole derivatives. J Org Chem 2013; 78:2965-83. [PMID: 23428206 DOI: 10.1021/jo302802b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Benzo-fused nitrogen-containing heterocycles are abundant in biologically active compounds. One of the most important methods for preparing such heterocycles is the (3 + 2) cycloaddition reaction of benzynes with 1,3-dipolar compounds. However, the reactions of unsymmetrically substituted benzynes generally show low selectivity and hence yield mixtures of two regioisomers. In this paper, we describe the synthesis of both regioisomers of multisubstituted benzo-fused azole derivatives such as benzotriazoles, 1H-indazoles, and benzo[d]isoxazoles through the regiocomplementary (3 + 2) cycloaddition reactions of 3-boryl- and 3-silylbenzynes with 1,3-dipoles. The improved generation of 3-borylbenzynes from new precursors was one of the most important results of this work, which produced the successful (3 + 2) cycloaddition reactions with exclusive and proximal selectivities. On the other hand, similar reactions of 3-silylbenzynes selectively afforded distal cycloadducts. Analysis of the reaction pathways of these amazing regioselectivities by density functional theory calculations revealed that the (3 + 2) cycloadditions of borylbenzynes are controlled by the electrostatic effect of the boryl group, while those of silylbenzynes are controlled mainly by the steric effect of the bulky silyl groups that produced electrostatically unfavorable adducts via anomalous transition states.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Ikawa
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 52-1, Yada, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka, Shizuoka 422-8526, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Calo’ G, Guerrini R. Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, and Biological Actions of Peptide Ligands Selective for the Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Receptor. ACS SYMPOSIUM SERIES 2013. [DOI: 10.1021/bk-2013-1131.ch015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Girolamo Calo’
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara and National Institute of Neuroscience, Italy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA (Laboratorio per le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate), University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Remo Guerrini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Ferrara and National Institute of Neuroscience, Italy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and LTTA (Laboratorio per le Tecnologie delle Terapie Avanzate), University of Ferrara, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Hayashi S, Ohashi K, Nakata E, Emoto C. Discovery of 1-(β-amino substituted-β-alanyl)-N,N-dimethylindoline-2-carboxamides as novel nonpeptide antagonists of nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor: Efficient design, synthesis, and structure–activity relationship studies. Eur J Med Chem 2012; 55:228-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2012.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2012] [Revised: 07/11/2012] [Accepted: 07/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
|
28
|
Hayashi S, Ueno N, Murase A, Nakagawa Y, Takada J. Novel acid-type cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors: Design, synthesis, and structure–activity relationship for anti-inflammatory drug. Eur J Med Chem 2012; 50:179-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2012.01.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2011] [Revised: 01/26/2012] [Accepted: 01/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
29
|
Hayashi S, Sumi Y, Ueno N, Murase A, Takada J. Discovery of a novel COX-2 inhibitor as an orally potent anti-pyretic and anti-inflammatory drug: Design, synthesis, and structure–activity relationship. Biochem Pharmacol 2011; 82:755-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2011.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2011] [Revised: 06/22/2011] [Accepted: 06/23/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
30
|
Chen CH, Yellol GS, Lin PT, Sun CM. Base-Catalyzed Povarov Reaction: An Unusual [1,3] Sigmatropic Rearrangement to Dihydropyrimidobenzimidazoles. Org Lett 2011; 13:5120-3. [DOI: 10.1021/ol201985p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Hau Chen
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Gorakh S. Yellol
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Po-Tsung Lin
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ming Sun
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Chen W, Wang M, Li P, Wang L. Highly efficient copper/palladium-catalyzed tandem Ullman reaction/arylation of azoles via C–H activation: synthesis of benzofuranyl and indolyl azoles from 2-(gem-dibromovinyl)phenols(anilines) with azoles. Tetrahedron 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tet.2011.06.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
32
|
Mustazza C, Bastanzio G. Development of nociceptin receptor (NOP) agonists and antagonists. Med Res Rev 2011; 31:605-48. [PMID: 20099319 DOI: 10.1002/med.20197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The nociceptin opioid (NOP) receptor is the most recently discovered member of the family of the opioid receptors; its endogenous agonist is the peptide nociceptin. Due to the subsequent elucidation of its physiological role in both central and peripheral nervous system and in some non-neural tissues, there is a rapidly growing interest in the pharmacological application of substances active on this receptor. Despite the current clinical use of a morphinane-based NOP/MOP mixed ligand (buprenorphine) as an analgesic and in the treatment of drug addictions, so far just a few clinical trials have been made with selective NOP ligands. However, the perspective of their utilization is rapidly growing. Agonists can find applications in the treatment of neuropathic pain, anxiety, cough, drug addition, urinary incontinence, anorexia, congestive heart failure, hypertension; and antagonists for pain, depression, Parkinson's disease, obesity, and as memory enhancers. Besides peptide ligands, which are still subjected to many pharmacological investigations, many different chemical classes of NOP ligands have been discovered: piperidines, nortropanes, spiropiperidines, 4-amino-quinolines and quinazolines, and others. The new advances in establishing structure-activity relationships, also with the help of modeling studies, can permit the development of more active and selective molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Mustazza
- Dipartimento del Farmaco, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, Roma, Italy.
| | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Qin X, Cong X, Zhao D, You J, Lan J. One-pot synthesis of benzofused heteroaryl azoles via tandem C-heteroatom coupling/C–H activation of azoles. Chem Commun (Camb) 2011; 47:5611-3. [PMID: 21475749 DOI: 10.1039/c1cc10572h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The Cu(i) or Pd(ii)-catalyzed cross-couplings of gem-dihaloolefins with azoles via tandem C-heteroatom coupling/C–H activation for the preparation of benzofused heteroaryl azoles have been developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xurong Qin
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Technology of Ministry of Education
- College of Chemistry, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy
- West China Medical School
- Sichuan University
- Chengdu 610064
| | - Xuefeng Cong
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Technology of Ministry of Education
- College of Chemistry, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy
- West China Medical School
- Sichuan University
- Chengdu 610064
| | - Dongbing Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Technology of Ministry of Education
- College of Chemistry, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy
- West China Medical School
- Sichuan University
- Chengdu 610064
| | - Jingsong You
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Technology of Ministry of Education
- College of Chemistry, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy
- West China Medical School
- Sichuan University
- Chengdu 610064
| | - Jingbo Lan
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Technology of Ministry of Education
- College of Chemistry, and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy
- West China Medical School
- Sichuan University
- Chengdu 610064
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
|
35
|
Abstract
This paper is the 32nd consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2009 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior (Section 2), and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia (Section 3); stress and social status (Section 4); tolerance and dependence (Section 5); learning and memory (Section 6); eating and drinking (Section 7); alcohol and drugs of abuse (Section 8); sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (Section 9); mental illness and mood (Section 10); seizures and neurologic disorders (Section 11); electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (Section 12); general activity and locomotion (Section 13); gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (Section 14); cardiovascular responses (Section 15); respiration and thermoregulation (Section 16); and immunological responses (Section 17).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY 11367, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Hayashi S, Nakata E, Morita A, Mizuno K, Yamamura K, Kato A, Ohashi K. Discovery of {1-[4-(2-{hexahydropyrrolo[3,4-c]pyrrol-2(1H)-yl}-1H-benzimidazol-1-yl)piperidin-1-yl]cyclooctyl}methanol, systemically potent novel non-peptide agonist of nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor as analgesic for the treatment of neuropathic pain: Design, synthesis, and structure–activity relationships. Bioorg Med Chem 2010; 18:7675-99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2010.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2010] [Revised: 07/14/2010] [Accepted: 07/15/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
37
|
Xia YM, You J, Yang FK. Synthesis of 1,2-bisubstituted benzimidazole: 1,3-Shift mechanism catalyzed by acid or base. J Heterocycl Chem 2010. [DOI: 10.1002/jhet.531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
38
|
|
39
|
Calo' G, Rizzi A, Cifani C, Micioni Di Bonaventura MV, Regoli D, Massi M, Salvadori S, Lambert DG, Guerrini R. UFP-112 a potent and long-lasting agonist selective for the Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ receptor. CNS Neurosci Ther 2010; 17:178-98. [PMID: 20497197 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-5949.2009.00107.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) controls several biological functions via selective activation of the N/OFQ peptide receptor (NOP). [(pF)Phe(4) Aib(7) Arg(14) Lys(15) ]N/OFQ-NH(2) (UFP-112) is an NOP receptor ligand designed using a combination of several chemical modifications in the same peptide sequence that increase NOP receptor affinity/potency and/or reduce susceptibility to enzymatic degradation. In the present review article, we summarize data from the literature and present original findings on the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological features of UFP-112. Moreover, important biological actions and possible therapeutic indications of NOP receptor agonists are discussed based on the results obtained with UFP-112 and compared with other peptide and nonpeptide NOP receptor ligands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Girolamo Calo'
- Department Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Pharmacology and Neuroscience Center, University of Ferrara, and National Institute of Neuroscience, Ferrara, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|