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Clinical development of catechol-based orthosteric agonists of the dopamine D1 receptor has thus far been unsuccessful due to multiple challenges. To address these issues, we identified LY3154207 (...

Clinical development of catechol-based orthosteric agonists of the dopamine D1 receptor has thus far been unsuccessful due to multiple challenges. To address these issues, we identified LY3154207 (

The objective of the described research effort was to identify a novel serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) with improved norepinephrine transporter activity and acceptable metabolic stability and exhibiting minimal drug-drug interaction. We describe herein the discovery of a series of 3-substituted pyrrolidines, exemplified by compound 1. Compound 1 is a selective SNRI in vitro and in vivo, has favorable ADME properties, and retains inhibitory activity in the formalin model of pain behavior. Compound 1 thus represents a potential new probe to explore utility of SNRIs in central nervous system disorders, including chronic pain conditions.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The two phenylpiperidines, OSU6162 and ACR16, have been proposed as novel drugs for the treatment of brain disorders, including schizophrenia and Huntington's disease, because of their putative dopamine stabilizing effects. Here we evaluated the activities of these compounds in a range of assays for the D2 dopamine receptor in vitro. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The affinities of these compounds for the D2 dopamine receptor were evaluated in competition with [3H]spiperone and [3H]NPA. Agonist activity of these compounds was evaluated in terms of their ability to stimulate [35S]GTPγS binding. KEY RESULTS Both compounds had low affinities for inhibition of [3H]spiperone binding (pKi vs. [3H]spiperone, ACR16

“Dopamine stabilizers” are a new class of compounds that have the ability to reverse both hypo- as well as hyperdopaminergia in vivo. This class, exemplified by the phenylpiperidines ( S )-(-)-3-(3-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-1-propyl-piperidine [(-)-OSU6162] and 4-(3-methanesulfonyl-phenyl)-1-propyl)-piperidine [ACR16] although lacking high in vitro binding affinity for dopamine D 2 receptor [(-)-OSU6162, K i = 447 nM; ACR16, K i > 1 μM], shows functional actions, suggestive of their interaction. Hence, we evaluated in vivo D 2 occupancy of these agents in rats and correlated it to observed effects in a series of behavioral, neurochemical, and endocrine models relevant to the dopamine system and antipsychotic effect. Both (-)-OSU6162 and ACR16 showed robust dose-dependent striatal D 2 occupancy with ED 50 values of 5.27 and 18.99 mg/kg s.c., respectively, and functional assays showed no partial agonism. Over an occupancy range of 37 to 87% (3-60 mg/kg) for (-)-OSU6162 and 35 to 74% (10-60 mg/kg) for ACR16, we observed both inhibitory (amphetamine-induced locomotor activity) and stimulatory effects (in habituated rats). Haloperidol, over a similar occupancy range (33-78%), potently inhibited psychostimulant activity and induced catalepsy, but it failed to activate habituated animals. In the conditioned avoidance response assay, ACR16 was clearly more efficacious than (-)-OSU6162. In addition, both these compounds demonstrated significant preferential Fos induction in the nucleus accumbens compared with the dorsolateral striatum, a strong predictor of atypical antipsychotic efficacy. The results suggest that dopamine stabilizers exhibit locomotor stabilizing as well as antipsychotic-like effects, with low motor side effect liability, in a dose range that corresponds to high D 2 in vivo occupancy.

The synthesis of novel C6-aryl substituted derivatives of 3-(dimethylamino)chroman is described. The novel derivatives display 5-HT(7) receptor affinities that varies from nM to muM, indicating that this small set of derivatives constitute a novel and interesting starting point for further structure-serotonin 5-HT(7) activity relationship (SAR) studies.

The understanding of the physiological role of the G-protein coupled serotonin 5-HT(7) receptor is largely rudimentary. Therefore, selective and potent pharmacological tools will add to the understanding of serotonergic effects mediated through this receptor. In this report, we describe two compound classes, chromans and tetralins, encompassing compounds with nanomolar affinity for the 5-HT(7) receptor and with good selectivity. Within theses classes, we have discovered both agonists and antagonists that can be used for further understanding of the pharmacology of the 5-HT(7) receptor.

Mechanisms of ligand binding and receptor activation for the human D2(short) dopamine receptor have been probed using two homologous series of monohydroxylated and dihydroxylated agonists (phenylethylamines and 2-dipropylaminotetralins). In ligand binding studies, the majority of compounds exhibited competition curves versus [3H]spiperone that were best fitted using a two site binding model. The compounds had different abilities (potencies and maximal effects) to stimulate [35S]GTPgammaS binding and to inhibit forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation. From the data it can be concluded that: (i) the ability of an agonist to stabilize receptor/G protein coupling can be used to predict agonist efficacy for some groups of compounds (2-dipropylaminotetralins) but not for others (phenylethylamines); (ii) the receptor may be activated by unhydroxylated compounds; (iii) single hydroxyl groups or pairs of hydroxyl groups on the agonist may contribute to binding affinity, potency and efficacy; and (iv) for the 2-dipropylaminotetralin series two modes of agonist/receptor interaction have been identified associated with different relative efficacy.

Background: The presently available pharmaceutical aids in smoking cessation possess a rather limited effectiveness. Therefore, we have synthesized a series of immunoconjugates that stimulate the induction of antibodies which may bind nicotine in the blood, thereby preventing it from passing the blood-brain barrier. Thus, the reinforcing action of nicotine in the brain, which is the driving force in tobacco smoking, should be abolished. Objective: The present study was undertaken to test this notion in a long-term relapse model in rats, measuring the reinstatement of nicotine-seeking behavior, following active immunization with IP18-KLH, one of our immunoconjugates. Methods: Male Wistar rats were immunized with a nicotine-KLH conjugate (nicotine immunogen) and Freund’s adjuvant after having been trained to meet the criteria of stable nicotine self-administration on a fixed ratio (FR3) schedule. The rats were subsequently extinguished from nicotine self-administration behavior and finally, as extinction was completed, they were exposed to small, priming doses of nicotine, which previously have been shown to reinstate the nicotine-seeking behavior. The antibody titers were measured by ELISA. Results: It was found that rats with high titers (>1:10,000) of antibodies against nicotine, in contrast to those with low/no nicotine selective antibodies, do not reinstate nicotine self-administration behavior when they are exposed to nicotine. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that active immunization against nicotine may effectively abolish the reinforcing action of nicotine in brain, an effect which is critical for relapse in nicotine dependence. These data suggest the potential utility of active immunization in smoking cessation programs.

A series of N-arylmethyl substituted (R)-5-methoxy-2-(propylamino)tetralins has been prepared and evaluated for affinity and efficacy at dopamine (DA) D2 a receptors. The novel compounds appeared to be antagonists or inverse agonists. (R)-2-[(Benzyl)propylamino]-5-methoxytetralin (7) was characterized as a potent inverse agonists at DA D2 a receptors in a [35S]GTPγS binding assay.

Tricarbonylchromium complexes of racemic and resolved 3-(dipropylamino)chromans were prepared. Benzylic alkylation of the complexes provided access to 4-alkylated derivatives. Alkylations of the endo complex gave only the expected trans products. Unexpectedly, the exo complex predominantly (with methyl iodide) or almost exclusively (with allyl and benzyl bromide) produced the trans derivatives. Steric effects and the nature of the electrophiles appear to direct the outcome of the alkylations.

Analogs of the 5-HT 1A receptor antagonist (S)-5-fluoro-8-hydroxy-2-(dipropylamino)tetralin [(S)-1, (S)-UH301] have been prepared. The C8-substituent has been varied, and in some derivatives one of the N-propyl groups has been exchanged for a 4-(8-aza-7,9-dioxospiro[4.5]decan-8-yl)-butyl group. The novel compounds have been evaluated for affinity to rat brain 5-HT 1A receptors in competition experiments with [ 3 H]-8-OH-DPAT. In addition, the efficacy of the compounds was assessed by their ability to inhibit the VIP-stimulated cAMP formation in GH 4 ZD10 cells expressing rat 5-HT 1A receptors. Varying degrees of intrinsic activity was revealed among the compounds tested, i.e., the profiles ranged from full agonists to antagonists. All R-enantiomers are characterized as full agonists at 5-HT 1A receptors, whereas partial agonists or antagonists were found among the corresponding S-enantiomers. Substitution of one of the N-propyl groups for a 4-(8-aza-7,9-dioxospiro[4.5]decan-8-yl)butyl group seems to increase efficacy as well as affinity for 5-HT 1A receptors. A favorable interaction with an accessory binding site by the N-4-(8-aza-7,9-dioxospiro[4.5]decan-8-yl)butyl group may contribute to the increased affinity.

A series of secondary and tertiary N-alkyl derivatives of (R)-2-amino-5-fluorotetralin have been prepared. The affinities of the compounds for [3H]raclopride-labeled cloned human dopamine (DA) D2 and D3 receptors as well as [3H]-8-OH-DPAT-labeled rat hippocampal 5-HT1A receptors were determined. In order to selectively determine affinities for the high-affinity agonist binding site at DA D2 receptors, the agonist [3H]quinpirole was used. The intrinsic activities of the compounds at DA D2 and D3 receptors were evaluated in a [35S]GTP gamma S binding assay. The novel compounds were characterized as dopaminergic antagonists or inverse agonists. The antagonist (R)-2-(butylpropylamino)-5-fluorotetralin (16) bound with high affinity (Ki = 4.4 nM) to the DA D3 receptor and was the most D3-selective compound (10-fold). (R)-2-[[4-(8-Aza-7, 9-dioxospiro[4.5]decan-8-yl)butyl]propylamino]-5-fluorote tralin (18) bound with very high affinity to both DA D3 and 5-HT1A receptors (Ki = 0.2 nM) and was also characterized as a dopaminergic antagonist. (R)-2-(Benzylpropylamino)-5-fluorotetralin (10) behaved as an inverse agonist at both DA D2 and D3 receptors. It decreased the basal [35S]GTP gamma S binding and potently inhibited the DA-stimulated [35S]GTP gamma S binding. It is apparent that the intrinsic activity of a 2-aminotetralin derivative may be modified by varying the N-alkyl substituents.

International audience; Dopamine D-3 receptors have eluded definitive linkage to neurologic and psychiatric disorders since their cloning over 20 years ago. We report a new method that does not employ a radiolabel for simultaneously defining in vivo receptor occupancy of D-3 and D-2 receptors in rat brain after systemic dosing using the tracer epidepride (N-[[(2S)-1-ethylpyrrolidin-2-yl]methyl]-5-iodo-2,3-dimethoxybenzami de). Decreases in epidepride binding in lobule 9 of cerebellum (rich in D-3 receptors) were compared with nonspecific binding in the lateral cerebellum. The in vivo occupancy of the dopamine D-3 receptors was dose dependently increased by SB-277011A (trans-N-[4-[2-(6-cyano-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolin-2-yl)ethyl]cyc lohexyl]-4-quinolinecarboxamide) and U99194 (2,3-dihydro-5,6-dimethoxy-N,N-dipropyl-1H-inden-2-amine). Both antagonists increased extracellular levels of acetylcholine (ACh) in the medial prefrontal cortex of rats and modified brain-tissue levels of ACh and choline. Consistent with these findings, the D-3 receptor antagonists enhanced the acquisition of learning of rats either alone or in the presence of the norepinephrine uptake blocker reboxetine as with the attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) drug methylphenidate. Like reboxetine, the D-3 receptor antagonists also prevented deficits induced by scopolamine in object recognition memory of rats. Mice in which the dopamine transporter (DAT) has been deleted exhibit hyperactivity that is normalized by compounds that are effective in the treatment of ADHD. Both D-3 receptor antagonists decreased the hyperactivity of DAT(-/-) mice without affecting the activity of wild type controls. The present findings indicate that dopamine D-3 receptor antagonists engender cognition-enhancing and hyperactivity-dampening effects. Thus, D-3 receptor blockade could be considered as a novel treatment approach for cognitive deficits and hyperactivity syndromes, including those observed in ADHD.

The circular dichroism (CD) spectra of a series of oxygenated 2-(dipropylamino)tetralin derivatives are reported. On the basis of known absolute configurations and conformational preferences of the compounds, the validity of published correlations between the sign of the (1)L(b) Cotton effect and the three-dimensional structure was examined. Contrary to predictions, substitution in position 6 or 7 of the tetralin moiety did not change the sign of the (1)L(b) Cotton effect. An unexpected sign inversion was, however, observed in some of the compounds containing methyl substituents in the nonaromatic ring. The occurrence of this inversion was not correlated with a change in conformational behaviour and varied depending on the position and nature of the aromatic substituent. No correlations were obvious between the sign of the (1)L(b) Cotton effect and the absolute configuration and conformational preferences of the compounds. Therefore, at present, CD spectroscopy does not appear to be useful in assignments of the absolute configurations of 2-(dipropylamino)tetralin derivatives. (C) 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

The facile synthesis of a series of C3-substituted analogues of 3-deoxymorphine ( 2 ) by use of palladium-catalyzed reactions is described. Although none of the new compounds were as potent as morphine at either κ-, μ- or δ-opioid receptors, the μ-receptor selectivity of the C3-furyl derivative 7 approached that of morphine.

Racemic 5-methoxy-2-methyl-2-dipropylaminotetralin (3) has been prepared by a short synthetic route, in which the N,N-dipropyliminium perchlorate of 5-methoxy-2-tetralone (4) is a key intermediate. Racemic 3 was resolved by crystallization of the corresponding diastereomeric di-p-toluoyltartrates. The enantiomeric excess (%ee) of the phenolic derivatives of (+)-(R)- and (−)-(S)-3 [(+)-(R)- and (−)-(S)-2] was determined by 1HNMR spectroscopic analysis of the corresponding diastereomeric (−)-(R)-1,1′-binaphthyl-2,2′-diylphosphoric acid salts utilizing 13C satellites. X-ray crystallography established the absolute configuration of (−)-(S)-2 · HCl. The enantiomers of 2 were tested for hippocampal output of 5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, and dihydroxyphenylacetic acid in rats by use of in vivo microdialysis. The (−)-(S)-enantiomer appeared to affect 5-HT-turnover, whereas (+)-(R)-2 was inactive. Results obtained provide support for the previously reported hypothesis that the inactivity of (−)-(S)-2 at central DA receptors is caused by the steric bulk of the C(2)-methyl group. This makes it possible to define a “DA D2 receptor essential volume.” © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

New and efficient synthetic routes, utilizing palladium-catalysed reactions, provide (R)-11-hydroxy-10-methylaporphine 2 and (R)-11-hydroxyaporphine 3 from natural morphine 4.

Derivatives of the selective serotonin 5-HT1A receptor agonist (R)-11-hydroxy-10-methylaporphine (2) having various substituents in the C10-position or at the nitrogen have been synthesized from natural morphine or 6-O-acetylcodeine, respectively. The C10-substituents were introduced using efficient Stille or Suzuki cross-coupling reactions. The compounds were evaluated for their affinities to 5-HT1A and dopamine (DA) D1 and D2A receptors in vitro. All compounds tested displayed low (micromolar) affinities to D1 and D2A receptors. In addition, changes in steric bulk and/or electronic properties of the C10-substituent as compared to a C10-methyl group, as well as substitution of the N-methyl group for a hydrogen or a larger N-alkyl group, produced a marked decrease in the affinities to 5-HT1A receptors. Selected compounds that displayed moderate to high affinities to 5-HT1A receptors were evaluated for their ability to stimulate 5-HT1A receptors in vivo. The evaluated compounds behaved as agonists at 5-HT1...

A series of C11-substituted (R)-aporphines and C11-oxygenated (R)-noraporphines has been synthesized and evaluated for central serotonergic and dopaminergic effects in vitro and in vivo. The various C11-substituents were introduced using efficient nickel- and palladium-catalyzed reactions of the corresponding triflate (R)-11-[[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]oxy]aporphine (6). Several compounds display high affinity to serotonin 5-HT1A receptors in spite of major differences in steric bulk and electronic properties of the various C11-substituents. A change of the N-methyl group of the nonselective 3 to H [23, (R)-11-hydroxynoraporphine] or propyl [2, (R)-11-hydroxy-N-propylnoraporphine] increases the selectivity for 5-HT1A receptors (100-fold) and dopamine D2A receptors (3-fold), respectively. Compounds 3 and 23 have similar affinities to 5-HT1A receptors, whereas the propyl substituent of 2 not only enhances the selectivity for D2A receptors but also increases the D2A affinity. Modeling of ligand−receptor bind...

Tricarbonylchromium complexes of racemic and resolved 3-(dipropylamino)chromans were prepared. Benzylic alkylation of the complexes provided access to 4-alkylated derivatives. Alkylations of the endo complex gave only the expected trans products. Unexpectedly, the exo complex predominantly (with methyl iodide) or almost exclusively (with allyl and benzyl bromide) produced the trans derivatives. Steric effects and the nature of the electrophiles appear to direct the outcome of the alkylations.

Novel 8-aryl and 8-aroyl substituted derivatives of 3-(dipropylamino)chroman are described. The compounds have been prepared by a palladium catalyzed reaction of iodoarenes and a stannylated derivative of [η 6 -3-(dipropylamino)chroman]Cr(CO) 3 . Several of the compounds have high affinity for 5-HT 1 a receptors whereas the affinity for D 2 a receptors is lower, the 8-arylated derivatives being slightly more potent than the 8-aroylated analogues.

The design and synthesis of a well-characterized novel ring system, (R)-lambda1,11-methyleneaporphine [(R)-4], and 15 derivatives thereof are presented. The addition of various nucleophiles to (R)-lambda1,11-carbonylaporphine [(R)-11] or to the 1,11-hydroxymethyleneaporphine epimers gave separable mixtures of epimers. The epimeric ratios obtained in most reactions seem to be a result of steric factors directing the nucleophilic attack. The structure of the epimers was determined by a combination of X-ray crystallography (5 derivatives), NMR spectroscopy, and chemical correlation. Interesting and diverse pharmacological profiles of the derivatives were revealed through binding studies at serotonin 5-HT(7) and 5-HT(1A) receptors as well as at dopamine D(2A) receptors. Two derivatives appeared to be selective 5-HT(7) receptor antagonists. It is evident from our results that the novel ring system [(R)-4] provides a useful complement to other scaffolds available to medicinal chemists involved in studies of GPC receptors.

The aim of the present study was to synthesise and screen a set of novel nicotine hapten immunogens used for the treatment of nicotine dependence. In the screening process we studied the amount of antibodies generated and their selectivity, using ELISA techniques, and their effects on nicotine-induced dopamine release in the NAC(shell) of the rat, assessed by in vivo voltammetry. We conclude that even small changes such as the linker attachment on the nicotine molecule as well as the structure of the linker may greatly influence the selectivity of the antibodies and the central neurobiological effects of nicotine that are considered critical for its dependence producing properties. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The enantiomers of cis-7-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-(dipropylamino)tetralin (3) have been synthesized and evaluated for activity at central dopamine (DA), 5-hydroxytryptamine, and norepinephrine (NE) receptors, by use of biochemical and behavioral tests in rats. In addition, the affinities of the compounds for striatal [3H]spiroperidol and [3H]N-propylnorapomorphine binding sites were determined. The absolute configuration of the enantiomers was determined by X-ray diffraction of (+)-3. The pharmacological effects of both enantiomers are complicated, but (2R,3S)-7-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-(dipropylamino)tetralin [(-)-3] produced biochemical effects in vivo similar to those elicited by classical DA D2-receptor antagonists.

Recent results in studies of interactions between dopamine receptors and stereoselec­ tive agonists and antagonists are reviewed. Also discussed are the stereoselectivity of serotonergic 5-HT1A-receptor agonists and some of the difficulties associated with modeling the interaction between ligands and receptors on a molecular level.

Dopaminergic stabilizers can be defined as drugs that stimulate or inhibit dopaminergic signalling depending on the dopaminergic tone. (−)-OSU6162 and ACR16 appear to possess such a profile. They have been proposed to act as partial dopamine receptor agonists or as antagonists with preferential action on dopaminergic autoreceptors. Previous studies have shown either stimulation or inhibition of behaviour in response to (−)-OSU6162 and ACR16, which has been suggested to reflect their dual effects on dopaminergic signalling. The aims of the present work are to (1) examine the relation between behavioural response to these drugs and activity baseline, and (2) test the suggested mechanisms of action by means of close comparisons with the known partial D2-receptor agonists (−)-3-PPP and aripiprazole, and the D2 autoreceptor preferring antagonist amisulpride with respect to effects on behaviour. From the results of these experiments it can be concluded that: (1) The direction of the response to (−)-OSU6162 and ACR16 is dependent on activity baseline, which in turn, under physiological conditions, is determined primarily by test arena size of and degree of habituation to the environment. (2) The effects of (−)-OSU6162 and ACR16 cannot be explained on the basis of either partial dopamine receptor agonism or preferential dopamine autoreceptor antagonism. Nevertheless, the current data suggest at least two different D2-receptor-associated targets which mediate opposite effects on activity. This result fits in with a mechanism proposed from a recent in vitro study, according to which (−)-OSU6162 has a dual action on dopamine D2 receptors, (a) an allosteric effect causing an enhanced response to dopamine, and (b) the previously proposed orthosteric effect antagonizing the action of dopamine.

We recently showed that active immunisation with the nicotine immunoconjugate IP18–KLH reduces the nicotine-induced increase in dopamine (DA) output in the nucleus accumbens (NAC) and prevents reinstatement of nicotine-seeking behaviour in rats. These effects are mediated by altered distribution of nicotine, resulting in reduced amounts of nicotine reaching the brain, thereby interfering with the rewarding properties of the drug. The present study was designed to explore the effect of immunisation against nicotine on mecamylamine-precipitated nicotine withdrawal as assessed by the reduction in DA output in the NAC in rats. Measuring brain reward thresholds and somatic signs of nicotine withdrawal, the effects of immunisation were also tested during chronic nicotine treatment and after its withdrawal. Finally, we examined the effect of immunisation on challenge injections of nicotine on brain reward thresholds after the increases in somatic signs and reward thresholds associated with nicotine withdrawal had dissipated. The results show that immunisation with IP18–KLH prevented the decrease in DA output in the NAC associated with mecamylamine-precipitated nicotine withdrawal. Moreover, immunisation against nicotine did not precipitate a withdrawal syndrome, as measured by brain reward thresholds and somatic signs, in rats chronically exposed to nicotine. Furthermore, the withdrawal syndrome elicited after cessation of chronic nicotine administration was attenuated in immunised rats compared to that of mock-immunised rats. Finally, the lowering in reward thresholds after nicotine challenge injections was attenuated in both naive and previously nicotine-exposed immunised rats. In conclusion, the present results show that immunisation with IP18–KLH did not precipitate nicotine withdrawal in rats. Thus, immunisation with IP18–KLH may not elicit nicotine withdrawal in smokers either. Furthermore, since the withdrawal syndrome in rats was attenuated by immunisation, the nicotine withdrawal in smokers should not be worsened but may even be ameliorated during a quit attempt.

We have previously shown that active immunization with the nicotine immunoconjugate IP18-KLH attenuates the reinforcing effects of nicotine, i.e., suppresses the nicotine-induced brain dopamine release and prevents reinstatement of the nicotine-seeking behavior in rats. These effects are thought to be due to an alteration of the kinetics of nicotine distribution by the antibodies, resulting in an attenuated nicotine distribution to the brain. In this study, the distribution of nicotine administered at doses corresponding to those used in our previous studies, was investigated in immunized rats and controls. Male Wistar rats received two immunizations with IP18-KLH in Freund's incomplete adjuvant, 21 days apart, and experiments were performed 7-11 days post-immunization under chloral hydrate anesthesia. Blood samples were collected to determine antibody titer and nicotine selectivity using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques. The animals received an intravenous nicotine dose and were sacrificed either 3 min or 60 min after nicotine administration. Trunk blood was collected and the brains were removed for analysis of nicotine content. The results showed that immunization against nicotine increases the nicotine concentration in blood and significantly decreases the amount of nicotine that reaches the brain. The present findings thus demonstrate an altered distribution of nicotine after immunization with IP18-KLH. Despite the sustained nicotine binding by the antibodies, the active immunization did not alter the metabolism of nicotine to cotinine, the major nicotine metabolite. In conclusion, the attenuation of the reinforcing effect of nicotine after immunization with IP18-KLH, shown previously, is indeed associated with an altered distribution of nicotine.

Mechanisms of ligand binding and receptor activation for the human D2(short) dopamine receptor have been probed using two homologous series of monohydroxylated and dihydroxylated agonists (phenylethylamines and 2-dipropylaminotetralins). In ligand binding studies, the majority of compounds exhibited competition curves versus [3H]spiperone that were best fitted using a two site binding model. The compounds had different abilities (potencies and maximal effects) to stimulate [35S]GTPgammaS binding and to inhibit forskolin-stimulated cAMP accumulation. From the data it can be concluded that: (i) the ability of an agonist to stabilize receptor/G protein coupling can be used to predict agonist efficacy for some groups of compounds (2-dipropylaminotetralins) but not for others (phenylethylamines); (ii) the receptor may be activated by unhydroxylated compounds; (iii) single hydroxyl groups or pairs of hydroxyl groups on the agonist may contribute to binding affinity, potency and efficacy; and (iv) for the 2-dipropylaminotetralin series two modes of agonist/receptor interaction have been identified associated with different relative efficacy.

Background: Tobacco smoking is the largest preventable cause of morbidity and premature mortality in the world. Although its medical consequences are well documented, 20–50% of the population even in developed countries remain tobacco smokers. The drugs presently used in smoking cessation have limited efficiency and, therefore, there is a need for alternative and improved treatments. One novel approach in this regard may be provided by immunization against nicotine. Objective: The present study in male Wistar rats investigated if active immunization with a novel nicotine immunogen, IP18-KLH, may generate nicotine-selective antibodies and, furthermore, whether this treatment might prevent nicotine from exerting its stimulating effect on the mesolimbic, dopaminergic reward system in the brain. Methods: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the titer of nicotine antibodies in plasma after immunization with IP18-KLH in Freund’s adjuvant. Competitive ELISA was used to assess the selectivity of the antibodies. Finally, we used in vivo voltammetry to investigate whether active immunization with IP18-KLH could prevent nicotine-induced dopamine release in the shell of nucleus accumbens (NACshell). Results: The present study shows that active immunization with IP18-KLH generates antibodies that are highly selective for nicotine. Furthermore, immunization with IP18-KLH prevented the nicotine-induced increase in dopamine release in the NACshell, a biochemical correlate to the rewarding properties of nicotine. Conclusions: Active immunization with IP18-KLH prevents a central effect of nicotine that is considered critical for the induction of nicotine dependence. Consequently, active immunization may provide long-term protection against initiation of tobacco dependence, an effect that may prove particularly advantageous in relapse prevention.

Novel rigidified ( R )-aporphine derivatives were synthesized from ( R )-1,11-carbonylaporphine by ring expansion reactions. The structures of the novel analogues were assigned by NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography. The compounds showed moderate affinities and selectivities at serotonin 5-HT 1A and 5-HT 7 and dopamine D 2A receptors.

Novel rigidified ( R )-aporphine derivatives were synthesized from ( R )-1,11-carbonylaporphine by ring expansion reactions. The structures of the novel analogues were assigned by NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography. The compounds showed moderate affinities and selectivities at serotonin 5-HT 1A and 5-HT 7 and dopamine D 2A receptors.

Three conserved serine residues (Ser193, Ser194, and Ser197) in transmembrane spanning region (TM) V of the D2 dopamine receptor have been mutated to alanine, individually and in combination, to explore their role in ligand binding and G protein coupling. The multiple Ser -->Ala mutations had no effect on the binding of most antagonists tested, including [3H]spiperone, suggesting that the multiple mutations did not affect the overall conformation of the receptor protein. Double or triple mutants containing an Ala197 mutation showed a decrease in affinity for domperidone, whereas Ala193 mutants showed an increased affinity for a substituted benzamide, remoxipride. However, dopamine showed large decreases in affinity (>20-fold) for each multiple mutant receptor containing the Ser193Ala mutation, and the high-affinity (coupled) state of the receptor (in the absence of GTP) could not be detected for any of the multiple mutants. A series of monohydroxylated phenylethylamines and aminotetralins was tested for their binding to the native and multiple mutant D2 dopamine receptors. The results obtained suggest that Ser193 interacts with the hydroxyl of S-5-hydroxy-2-dipropylaminotetralin (OH-DPAT) and Ser197 with the hydroxyl of R-5-OH-DPAT. We predict that Ser193 interacts with the hydroxyl of R-7-OH-DPAT and the 3-hydroxyl (m-hydroxyl) of dopamine. Therefore, the conserved serine residues in TMV of the D2 dopamine receptor are involved in hydrogen bonding interactions with selected antagonists and most agonists tested and also enable agonists to stabilise receptor-G protein coupling.

Novel 8-aryl and 8-aroyl substituted derivatives of 3-(dipropylamino)chroman are described. The compounds have been prepared by a palladium catalyzed reaction of iodoarenes and a stannylated derivative of [η 6 -3-(dipropylamino)chroman]Cr(CO) 3 . Several of the compounds have high affinity for 5-HT 1 a receptors whereas the affinity for D 2 a receptors is lower, the 8-arylated derivatives being slightly more potent than the 8-aroylated analogues.

The affinities of 19 pharmacologically diverse dopamine D2 receptor ligands were determined for the active and inactive conformations of cloned human dopamine D2 receptors expressed in Ltk− cells. The agonist [3H]quinpirole was used to selectively label the guanine nucleotide-binding protein-coupled, active receptor conformation. The antagonist [3H]raclopride, in the presence of the non-hydrolysable GTP-analogue Gpp(NH)p and sodium ions and in the absence of magnesium ions, was used to label the free inactive receptor conformation. The intrinsic activities of the ligands were determined in a forskolin-stimulated cyclic AMP assay using the same cells. An excellent correlation was shown between the affinity ratios (KR/KRG) of the ligands for the two receptor conformations and their intrinsic activity (r=0.96). The ligands included eight structurally related and enantiopure 2-aminotetralin derivatives; the enantiomers of 5-hydroxy-2-(dipropylamino)tetralin, 5-methoxy-2-(dipropylamino)tetralin, 5-fluoro-2-(dipropylamino)tetralin and 2-(dipropylamino)tetralin. The (S)-enantiomers behaved as full agonists in the cyclic AMP assay and displayed a large KR/KRG ratio. The (R)-enantiomers were classified as partial agonists and had lower ratios. The structure–affinity relationships of these compounds at the active and the inactive receptor conformations were analysed separately, and used in conjunction with a homology based receptor model of the dopamine D2 receptor. This led to proposed binding modes for agonists, antagonists and partial agonists in the 2-aminotetralin series. The concepts used in this study should be of value in the design of ligands with predetermined affinity and intrinsic activity.

A series of C11-substituted (R)-aporphines and C11-oxygenated (R)-noraporphines has been synthesized and evaluated for central serotonergic and dopaminergic effects in vitro and in vivo. The various C11-substituents were introduced using efficient nickel- and palladium-catalyzed reactions of the corresponding triflate (R)-11-[[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]oxy]aporphine (6). Several compounds display high affinity to serotonin 5-HT1A receptors in spite of major differences in steric bulk and electronic properties of the various C11-substituents. A change of the N-methyl group of the nonselective 3 to H [23, (R)-11-hydroxynoraporphine] or propyl [2, (R)-11-hydroxy-N-propylnoraporphine] increases the selectivity for 5-HT1A receptors (100-fold) and dopamine D2A receptors (3-fold), respectively. Compounds 3 and 23 have similar affinities to 5-HT1A receptors, whereas the propyl substituent of 2 not only enhances the selectivity for D2A receptors but also increases the D2A affinity. Modeling of ligand-receptor binding site interactions yielded an interaction site model for the 5-HT1A receptor that describes a gradual change in binding mode for C11-hydroxy, -methoxy-, and -phenyl-substituted derivatives. Hydrogen bonding is hereby gradually replaced by van der Waals interactions involving a relatively large lipophilic pocket. The derived D2A receptor model can accommodate both the N-propyl substituent of 2 and the C11-ethyl substituent of 11 [(R)-11-ethylaporphine].

Derivatives of the selective serotonin 5-HT1A receptor agonist (R)-11-hydroxy-10-methylaporphine (2) having various substituents in the C10-position or at the nitrogen have been synthesized from natural morphine or 6-O-acetylcodeine, respectively. The C10-substituents were introduced using efficient Stille or Suzuki cross-coupling reactions. The compounds were evaluated for their affinities to 5-HT1A and dopamine (DA) D1 and D2A receptors in vitro. All compounds tested displayed low (micromolar) affinities to D1 and D2A receptors. In addition, changes in steric bulk and/or electronic properties of the C10-substituent as compared to a C10-methyl group, as well as substitution of the N-methyl group for a hydrogen or a larger N-alkyl group, produced a marked decrease in the affinities to 5-HT1A receptors. Selected compounds that displayed moderate to high affinities to 5-HT1A receptors were evaluated for their ability to stimulate 5-HT1A receptors in vivo. The evaluated compounds behaved as agonists at 5-HT1A receptors, except for the N-propyl analogue of 2, (R)-11-hydroxy-10-methyl-N-propylnoraporphine (23), which displayed weak DA receptor agonism at the doses tested. Hence, the substitution pattern of 2 (a C10-methyl, a C11-hydroxy, and an N-methyl group) appears to be optimal for potent interaction of 10,11-disubstituted (R)-aporphines with 5-HT1A receptors. Modeling of ligand-5-HT1A receptor interactions was performed in an attempt to rationalize the observed affinity data. The binding site model suggests the presence of a "methyl pocket" in the 5-HT1A receptor binding ste. The C11-methoxy-substituted aporphines appear to have a different binding mode compared to 2, implying a different accessibility of these compounds to the "methyl pocket".

The (S)-enantiomer of 5-fluoro-8-hydroxy-2-(dipropylamino) tetralin [(S)-2a; (S)-UH301] was the first reported 5-HT1A receptor antagonist. We now give a full account on the synthetic effort leading to the preparation of the racemate and the enantiomers of 2a. The crystal and molecular structure of 2a. HBr has been determined by X-ray diffraction and the absolute configuration has been deduced using statistical tests of the crystallographic R values. The unit cell is tetragonal (P4(1)2(1)2) with a = b = 13.2235(2), c = 39.560(1) A and contains two crystallographically independent molecules in each asymmetric unit. The two solid state conformers differ in the conformation of the N-propyl groups. The pharmacological characterization of the enantiomers was done by use of in vivo biochemical and behavioural assays in rats. The (R)-enantiomer of 2a is a 5-HT1A receptor agonist of low potency while (S)-2a does not exhibit any agonist properties at 5-HT1A receptors. As a consequence of the opposing effects of the enantiomers, the racemate, rac-2a, does not produce any clear-cut effects in rats. The reduced efficacy of (S)-2a as compared to the well known 5-HT1A receptor agonist 8-hydroxy-2-(dipropylamino) tetralin (1;8-OH-DPAT) may be due to the fluoro-substituent induced negative potential of the aromatic ring.

(R)-11-Hydroxyaporphine (2) and (R)-11-hydroxy-10-methylaporphine (3) were synthesized from natural morphine by using new, short, and efficient synthetic sequences. The dopaminergic and serotonergic effects of 2 and 3 were evaluated by use of in vitro and in vivo test systems. The results indicate that 3 is a potent, selective, and efficacious 5-HT1A receptor agonist. In contrast, 2 is a partial 5-HT1A receptor agonist of low potency which has affinity also for central D1 and D2A receptors. The differences in pharmacological profiles were rationalized by modeling of ligand-receptor interactions using homology-based receptor models of the 5-HT1A and D2A receptor binding site. The selective and pronounced serotonergic effects of 3 appear to be due to the C10-methyl group, which is accommodated by a lipophilic pocket in the 5-HT1A receptor. In contrast, the C10-methyl group of 3 is not accommodated by the binding site model of the D2A receptor.

The ability of a series of stereochemically well-defined 5-oxygenated 2-aminotetralins, consisting of dopamine-receptor agonists and antagonists, to displace [3H]spiperone and [3H]N-propylnorapomor-phine (NPA) from calf-caudate dopamine receptor sites has been evaluated in-vitro. In addition, the partition coefficients of the compounds were determined to measure their lipophilicity. The data were compared with previously obtained in-vivo biochemical data (dopa accumulation in reserpine pretreated or non-pretreated rats). Compounds with 2S-configuration and a C5-hydroxy substituent have the highest affinity for NPA-binding sites and such derivatives also have the highest potency in-vivo. The 2R-derivatives are less efficacious and their affinity for NPA- and spiperone binding sites is influenced by their lipophilicity. On the basis of these results, a model is proposed in which the antagonists form two, and the agonists form three, strong intermolecular bonds with the D2-receptor. According to this model, the agonists, but not the antagonists, are able to donate a hydrogen bond from the phenolic hydroxyl to the receptor.

The rapid progress in the area of molecular biology has provided us with the primary structures of a large variety of receptor proteins, many of which belong to the G-protein coupled receptor super family (e.g., dopamine (DA) D1 and D2 receptors, serotonin (5-HT) 5-HT1A, 5-HT1C and 5-HT2 receptors, and muscarinic m1–m5 receptors).1–4These receptor proteins are believed to form seven transmembrane helixes which associate to generate a hydrophilic pore (or groove). The binding site for the ligand is thought to be located within this hydrophilic environment. However, experimental evidence on the 3D-structures of various G-protein coupled receptors is still lacking. Therefore, it is not possible to design ligands for these receptors based on receptor/ligand complementarity. Instead, one has to rely on indirect design methods. These may be based on (a) classical QSAR-techniques, which efficiently describe lipophilic and electronic properties, (b) methods related to the active analogue approach, which in a qualitative sense, takes into account topology and certain other molecular features, and (c) the more recent 3D-QSAR method,5 which may provide quantitative information on the relation between biological activity and steric as well as electronic properties.