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The dopamine (DA) D 3 receptor antagonist PD 58491 (3-[4-[1-[4-[2-[4- (3-diethylaminopropoxy) phenyl]-benzoimidazol-1-yl-butyl]-I H-benzoimidazol-2-yl]-phenoxy]propyl]diethylamine) bound with high affinity and selectivity to recombinant human DA D 3 versus D 2L and D 4.2 receptors transfected into Chinese hamster ovary cells: K i values of 19.5 n M versus 2,362 and >3,000 nM, respectively. In contrast, the putative DA D 3 receptor antagonist (+)-AJ76 displayed low affinity and selectivity for D 3 versus D 2L and D 4,2 receptors (91 nM vs. 253 and 193 nM, respectively). In vitro, PD 58491 (1 nM-I M) exhibited D 3 receptor antagonist activity, reversing the quinpirole (10 nM)-induced stimulation of [ 3 H]thymidine uptake in D 3 CHOpro-5 cells, but did not have any significant intrinsic activity by itself in this assay. PD 58491 did not decrease the y-butyrolactone-induced increase in DA synthesis (L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine accumulation) in rat striatum, indicating that the compound possessed no in vivo DA D 2 /D 3 receptor agonist action at DA autoreceptors. PD 58491 (3-30 mg/kg, i.p.) generally did not alter DA or serotonin synthesis in either the striatum or mesolimbic region of rat brain. The D 3 -preferring agonist PD 128907 decreased DA synthesis in striatum and mesolimbic regions, and this effect was attenuated by pretreatment with PD 58491. These findings support the hypothesis that DA D 3 autoreceptors may in part modulate the synthesis and release of DA in striatum and mesolimbic regions.

152255 ( E -1, 1′-(2-butene-1,4-diyl)bis [2-[4-[3-(1-piperidinyl)propoxy]-phenyl]-1H-benzimidazole]) exhibited high affinity ( K i = 12.7 nM) for human dopamine (DA) D 3 receptors expressed in CHO K1 cells but not for DA D 2L receptors ( K i = 565 nM), DA D 4.2 or DA D 1 receptors ( K i > 3 μ M) and a number of other neurotransmitter receptors. Affinity for human muscarinic receptors was seen in vitro but no functional muscarinic agonist and/or antagonist action was observed in vivo. Antagonist activity at DA D 3 receptors was demonstrated by blockade of quinpirole-stimulated [ 3 H]-thymidine uptake in D 3 transfected cells, an effect that was 28-fold more potent than in D 2 -transfected cells. Unlike classical DA D 2 antagonists, PD 152255 did not increase rat brain DA synthesis and it increased locomotion in habituated rats. However, like antipsychotics, PD 152255 reduced locomotor activity in mice and reduced spontaneous and amphetamine-stimulated locomotion in nonhabituated rats. These results demonstrate that PD 152255 is a DA D 3 antagonist that may have antipsychotic activity.

The discovery of a series of novel (aryloxy)alkylamines with selective affinity for the dopamine D4 receptor is described. Target compounds were tested for binding to cloned human dopamine D2, D3, and D4 receptor subtypes expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) K-1 cells. A number of compounds demonstrated subnanomolar Ki values for binding to the D4 receptor, with several 100-fold selectivities toward the D2 and D3 receptors. Several compounds with combined D3/D4 receptor binding selectivity were also identified. A limited structure-activity relationship study of this chemical series is discussed. In a mitogenesis functional assay, the effect of the test compounds on cellular uptake of [3H]thymidine in D4-transfected CHO 10,001 cells was measured and compared to the response of the full dopamine agonist quinpirole. The activity of the compounds varied from full antagonist to weak partial agonist activity (intrinsic activity of 0-19% in comparison to quinpirole).

The human dopamine D4 receptor (D4R) has received considerable attention because of its high affinity for the atypical antipsychotic clozapine and the unusually polymorphic nature of its gene. To clarify the in vivo role of the D4R, we produced and analyzed mutant mice ( D4R −/− ) lacking this protein. Although less active in open field tests, D4R −/− mice outperformed wild-type mice on the rotarod and displayed locomotor supersensitivity to ethanol, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Biochemical analyses revealed that dopamine synthesis and its conversion to DOPAC were elevated in the dorsal striatum from D4R −/− mice. Based on these findings, we propose that the D4R modulates normal, coordinated and drug-stimulated motor behaviors as well as the activity of nigrostriatal dopamine neurons.

The discovery of a series of chromeno[3,4-c]pyridin-5-ones with selective affinity for the dopamine D4 receptor is described. Target compounds were tested for binding to cloned human dopamine D2, D3, and D4 receptor subtypes expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) K-1 cells. Several compounds demonstrated single digit nanomolar Ki values for binding to the D4 receptor with several hundred-fold selectivities toward the D2 and D3 receptors. A limited SAR study of this series is discussed. In a mitogenesis assay measuring [3H]thymidine uptake, the target compounds showed antagonist to weak partial agonist activity at the D4 receptor, with intrinsic activities ranging from 0 to 35%. Compound 6, 3-benzyl-8-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrochromeno[3,4-c]pyridin-5-one, increased DOPA (L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine) synthesis 84% in the hippocampus and 10% in the striatum of rat brain when dosed orally at 10 mg/kg.

High volume screening identified 3-(4-benzylpiperidinyl)-1-naphthoxy-2-propanol as a selective dopamine D4 receptor ligand. A systematic structure-activity study revealed that the benzyl group could be replaced with phenoxy and the naphthalene with phenyl to improve potency almost tenfold. The (R) enantiomer of this compound had a D4 affinity of 2 nM and was over 100-fold weaker at dopamine D2 and D3 receptors.

Screening in a neurotensin (NT) receptor binding assay resulted in the discovery of compound 1 with NT receptor binding affinity of 450 nM. SAR studies that varied substituents on each aromatic ring and the linking 1,5-pentanedione chain lead to compound 39 with 42 nM affinity. The more potent compounds were shown to be NT antagonists by their ability to inhibit NT induced calcium mobilization in HT29 cells.

1. 1. Using the gene splicing technique a synthetic human dopamine (DA) D 4.2 gene was constructed and subsequently stably expressed in CHO K1 cells. 2. 2. Binding of [ 3 H]spiperone to membranes prepared from human DA D 4.2 CHO Kl cells was saturable with a K d of 93 ± 0.51 pM and a B max of 768 ± 22 fmol per mg protein. 3. 3. Clozapine, apomorphine, and S(+)-NPA were more selective for D 4.2 than for D 2L receptors, with c ratios of 5.7, 7.1, and 19.6, respectively. 4. 4. Functional studies indicated that DA D 4.2 receptors expressed in CHO K1 cells inhibited forskolin stimulated cAMP levels showing coupling to G-proteins. 5. 5. Two reciprocal human D 2L and D 4.2 chimeric receptors (D 2L /D 4.2 and D 4.2 /D 2L ) were constructed by exchanging the amino-terminal end to the third transmembrane (TM) of one receptor with the counter part of the other receptor and expressing them transiently into COS-7 cells. The chimeric D 2L /D 4.2 receptor displayed non-detectable specific binding of [ 3 H] spiperone and other ligands. The chimeric D 4.2 /D 2L receptor binding affinities of DA agonists were more affected than that of antagonists, suggesting that binding affinities of agonists are more sensitive to changes in receptor conformation than that of antagonists. 6. 6. This study characterized the pharmacology of a novel synthesized DA D 4.2 receptor that provides a useful model for screening of potential D 4.2 receptor agonist and antagonist .

The pharmacology of PD 144418 (1-propyl-5-(3-p-tolyl-isoxazol-5-yl)-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine) was characterized using neurochemical, biochemical and behavioral techniques. For sigma (σ1 and σ2, respectively) sites, PD 144418 affinities were determined using whole guinea pig brain membranes with [3H](+)-pentazocine and neuroblastoma × glioma cell membranes using [3H]1,3-di-o-tolylguanidine (DTG) in the presence of 200 nM (+)-pentazocine. PD 144418 exhibited an affinity for σ1 of 0.08 nM (Ki) versus a Ki of 1377 nM for σ2 site. Additional receptor binding studies indicated that PD 144418 lacked affinity for dopaminergic, adrenergic, muscarinic and a variety of other receptors. In vitro studies indicated that PD 144418 reversed the N-methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA)-induced increase in cyclic GMP (cGMP) in rat cerebellar slices without affecting the basal levels, suggesting that σ1 sites may be important in the regulation of glutamine-induced actions. PD 144418 potentiated the decrease in 5-hydroxytryptophan caused by haloperidol in the mesolimbic region, but by itself had no effect in 5-hydroxytrypamine (5-HT) and dopamine (DA) synthesis. Behaviorally, similar to other σ ligands, PD 144418 antagonized mescaline-induced scratching at doses that did not alter spontaneous motor activity. This action is suggestive of potential antipsychotic property. It exhibited no anxiolytic and antidepressant properties in the models used. These results show that PD 144418 is a very selective σ1 agent, devoid of any significant affinity for other receptors and that σ1 site may modulate actions in the CNS. © 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.

The selective D-3-dopamine receptor agonist 4aR,10bR-(+)-trans-3,4,4a,10b-tetrahydro-4-[N-propyl-2,3- H-3]-2H,5H-[1]benzopyrano[4,3-b]-1,4-oxazin-9-ol ([H-3]PD 128907) was used to visualise D-3-dopamine receptors in whole hemisphere cryosections from post-mortem human brain. [H-3]PD 128907 has an 18- to 40-fold selectivity for D-3- over D-2-dopamine receptors as compared to a 7- to 24-fold selectivity of the more commonly used ligand [H-3]7-OH-DPAT. [H-3]PD 128907 accumulated markedly in the nucleus accumbens and in the ventral parts of caudate nucleus and putamen, with a slightly heterogeneous (patch-matrix like) distribution. The binding in the lateral parts of caudate nucleus and putamen was much less dense. No binding was obtained in any other regions. A very high proportion of [H-3]PD 128907 was specifically bound, as judged from the low binding remaining in the presence of the D-2/D-3-dopamine receptor antagonist raclopride. This gives the ligand a potential for the detection of low density D-3-dopamine receptors in the human brain. The binding obtained with [H-3]PD 128907 was clualitatively similar to that using [H-3]7-OH-DPAT in the presence of GTP. However, [H-3]7-OH-DPAT labelled, in contrast to [H-3]PD 128907, also D-3-dopamine receptors in neocortex, The new compound [H-3]PD 128907 appears to be a suitable radioligand for autoradiographic examination of the D-3-dopamine receptor localisation in the human brain, and should also be useful for pharmacological studies of this receptor subtype.

A series of 4-bromo-1-methoxy-N-[2-(4-aryl-1-piperazinyl)ethyl]-2-naphthalenecarboxamide dopamine (DA) D 3 receptor agonists has been identified. These compounds were found to be selective for DA D 3 over D 2 receptors and were shown to be partial to full agonists as measured by stimulation of mitogenesis in D 3 -transfected CHO p-5 cells.

A novel series of dimeric 2-[4-(3-aminopropoxy)phenyl]benzimidazole dopamine (DA) D3 receptor antagonists has been discovered. Most of the dimeric structure is needed for DA binding activity; however, a second basic nitrogen atom is not required. A representative compound had no effects on DA synthesis in rat brain but inhibited spontaneous locomotor activity in mice and stimulated locomotor activity in habituated rats.

A novel series of 2-[4-[3-(4-aryl-1-piperazinyl)propoxy]phenyl]benzimidazole dopamine D3 receptor agonists has been discovered. The aryl group was crucial for activity and Topliss analysis confirmed that phenyl was optimal for DA D3 receptor binding and selectivity. The phenyl analogue 3 was a partial agonist in a second messenger assay. It increased DA synthesis in rat brain and inhibited exploratory locomotor activity in rodents.

The pyridine analogs of 5-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (5-OH-DPAT), 4-6, were synthesized, and their biological activity was compared to that of 5-OH-DPAT. Compounds 4 and 6 exhibited activity similar to 5-OH-DPAT in dopamine (DA) D2 and D3 receptor binding and in autoreceptor activation as measured by their ability to reverse the gamma-butyrolactone-induced increase in rat DA synthesis. Behaviorally, 4 and 6 decreased locomotor activity (LMA) in rats (sc) at low doses but did not increase LMA to the same extent as 5-OH-DPAT at higher doses, indicating that 4 and 6 may be more selective for the DA autoreceptor. While 4 was less active orally in rats, 6 appeared to retain most of its behavioral potency. Analog 5 showed little activity in vivo or in vitro.

In in vitro studies, SR 48692, a nonpeptide neurotensin receptor antagonist, inhibited the binding of [3H] or [125I]neurotensin to membrane preparations from 10-day-old mouse brains and from HT-29 cells with Ki values of 3.9 and 8.6 nM, respectively. SR 48692 also antagonized the neurotensin-induced mobilization of intracellular calcium in HT-29 cells, in agreement with previous findings. In rat cerebellar slices SR 48692 blocked the increase in cyclic GMP levels evoked by neurotensin in a dose-dependent manner. In vivo, SR 48692 antagonized the increase in rat brain mesolimbic dopamine turnover induced by the systemically active neurotensin peptide, EI [(N-Me)Arg-Lys-Pro-Trp-tert-Leu-Leu]. No effects on dopamine turnover of either EI or SR 48692 were observed in the striatum. SR 48692 did not antagonize the EI-induced decreases in mouse body temperature and spontaneous locomotor activity (LMA) or the decreases in LMA induced by ICV-administered neurotensin. Although other explanations are possible, these findings support the hypothesis that a subtype of the NT receptor may mediate the locomotor and hypothermic actions of this peptide and that it is different from the NT receptor that is involved in dopamine turnover.

A full-length cDNA clone of the human dopamine D3 receptor was obtained by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using reverse-transcribed RNA from human brain as the template. The cDNA was inserted into an expression vector which was then stably transfected into either Chinese hamster ovary (CHO), SK-N-MC human epithelioma or mouse CCL1.3 fibroblast cell lines. Post-transfection, the Bmax for D3 receptor expression was 1.9, 1.1 and 0.4 pmol/mg protein in the CHO-K1, SK-N-MC and CCL1.3 cell lines, respectively. The D3 receptor expressed in CHO-K1 and CCL1.3 cells exhibited similar radioligand binding profiles, especially for the D3-selective compound, 7-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (7-OH-DPAT). Radioligand-binding competition curves of presumed D3 agonists were shifted to the right by the addition of guanine nucleotides and Na+ to the assay buffer. Presumed D3-receptor agonists had no effect on cAMP accumulation in any of the D3-transfected cell lines although cAMP accumulation was inhibited by dopamine D2 receptor activation in D2-transfected CHO and CCL1.3 cells and by activation of the exogenously expressed neuropeptide Y receptor in SK-N-MC cells. Also, D3 receptor activation neither potentiated ATP-stimulated arachidonic acid release from CHO cells nor stimulated inositol phosphate production in CCL1.3-cells although both of these responses were elicited by D2 agonists in D2-transfected cells. We conclude that the signalling properties of the D3 receptor differ from those of its closest homolog, the D2 receptor.

4-Aryltetrahydropyridines were prepared and evaluated in dopamine (DA) D2 and σ binding assays. Introduction of substitutents into the 4 position of the aryl group on the tetrahydropyridine was found to both greatly decrease the affinity for the DA D2 receptor and increase the affinity for the brain σ binding sites.

The synthesis and resolution of 4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-6-[4-(2-pyridinyl)-1-piperazinyl]-2-benzothiazolamine (7), a centrally active dopamine (DA) agonist, are described. Unlike the structurally related 2-aminotetralins, both enantiomers of this compound possess comparable dopaminergic efficacy.

The present studies evaluated previous suggestions that haloperidol-sensitive sigma binding sites are involved in the modulation of dopamine (DA) neuronal activity and in the induction of the dystonic effects of antipsychotic drugs. These issues were addressed by evaluating the effects of compounds that have differing affinities for sigma binding sites, on the firing activity of DA neurons in the substantia nigra in chloral hydrate-anesthetized rats and on the ability to induce extrapyramidal motor dysfunction in squirrel monkeys sensitized to the dystonic effects of haloperidol. The agents studied included haloperidol, DTG (1,3-di-o-tolylguanidine), (+)-pentazocine, (+)-SKF 10,047, BMY 14802, 8-OH-DPAT and sulpiride. There was no relationship between affinity for sigma binding sites and the ability to either alter DA neuronal activity or to induce extrapyramidal motor dysfunction.

A series of rigid tricyclic analogues of the dopamine (DA) agonist PD 118440 [4-(1,2,5,6-tetrahydro-1-propyl-3-pyridinyl)-2-thiazolamine] was synthesized and evaluated for dopaminergic activity and DA autoreceptor selectivity. (R)-(+)-6-Propyl-4,5,5a,6,7,8-hexahydrothiazolo[4,5-f]quinolin+ ++-2-amine [+)-6) was identified as the most selective DA autoreceptor agonist from this group of compounds. It inhibited spontaneous locomotor activity (LMA) in rodents, reversed the gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) induced accumulation of rat striatal DOPA and inhibited brain DA neuronal firing, all suggestive of direct DA autoreceptor agonist activity. However, (+)-6 is not completely free of postsynaptic DA activity, as evidenced by its stimulation of LMA in rats at high doses and its ability to produce stereotypy. On the other hand, (-)-6 appears to be a weak partial DA agonist with some effects on brain DA synthesis only at high doses. Like other DA autoreceptor agonists and DA antagonists, (+)-6 inhibited Sidman conditioned avoidance in squirrel monkeys, a test predictive of clinical antipsychotic activity. However, unlike classical antipsychotics, (+)-6 did not induce dystonias in haloperidol-sensitized squirrel monkeys, suggesting a minimal propensity toward extrapyramidal side effects (EPS).

The synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of a series of 2-[(arylsulfonyl)methyl]-4-aryl-5-cyano-1,4-dihydropyridine-3-carboxylic acid esters and analogues are described. These compounds possess a unique profile namely, calcium channel blocking and positive inotropic activities in vitro. Compound 54 was selected as the best compound in the series and was studied in detail. The synthesis and biological profiles of enantiomers of 54 are also reported. The data indicate that although the calcium channel blocking property of 54 is stereospecific the positive inotropic activity is not. Examples of 3- and 6-cyano and other closely related 1,4-dihydropyridine derivatives are described and evaluated for comparison and were found to be devoid of dual activities mentioned above.

The synthesis and resolution of 4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-6-[4-(2-pyridinyl)-1-piperazinyl]-2-benzothiazolamine (7), a centrally active dopamine (DA) agonist, are described. Unlike the structurally related 2-aminotetralins, both enantiomers of this compound possess comparable dopaminergic efficacy.

The enantiomers of the dopamine (DA) agonist PD 128483 (1) have been synthesized and characterized biochemically (D1, D2 receptor binding, effects on rat brain DA synthesis), electrophysiologically (inhibition of DA neuron firing) and behaviorally (effects on rat exploratory locomotor activity). While R-(+)−1 is a potent D2 agonist that stimulates both pre- and postsynaptic DA receptors, S-(−)−1 is a weak partial DA agonist able to stimulate only the more sensitive presynaptic DA receptors (DA autoreceptors).

Age-related changes in central cholinergic muscarinic receptors were measured in young (3-6 month), middle-aged (15-17 month), and aged (22-26 month) male Fisher 344 rats by receptor binding techniques. Using [3H]-quinuclidinyl benzilate as the ligand, a significant decrease (14-19%) in the number of muscarinic cortical receptors was measured in aged rats compared to both young and middle-aged rats. With the selective M1 antagonist, [3H]-pirenzepine, a 17% decrease in receptor density was observed in the cortex of aged animals compared to young rats. For both ligands no differences were observed in the striatum or hippocampus between any age group and there was no change in affinity (Kd) in any of the three brain regions for the three age groups. Additionally, there was no difference in choline acetyltransferase activity measured in cortex, hippocampus, or striatum of young and aged rats. Thus, there is a loss of M1 muscarinic receptors in the cerebral cortex of aged male Fisher 344 rats.

The design, synthesis, and pharmacological properties of a novel type of 4-(1,2,5,6-tetrahydro-1-alkyl-3-pyridinyl)-2-thiazolamine with dopaminergic properties are described. In particular, 4-(1,2,5,6-tetrahydro-1-propyl-3-pyridinyl)-2-thiazolamine (4c, PD 118440) and its allyl analogue (4i, PD 120697) have been identified as orally active dopamine (DA) agonists with pronounced central nervous system effects in tests that include [3H]-haloperidol and [3H]-N-propylnorapomorphine binding, inhibition of striatal DA synthesis, inhibition of DA neuronal firing, inhibition of spontaneous locomotor activity, and reversal of reserpine-induced depression in rats. The DA autoreceptor selectivity of these heterocyclic analogues of 3-(1-propyl-3-piperidinyl)phenol (3-PPP) was also evaluated. In this series, DA agonist activity was found to be highly dependent on the size of the N-alkyl substituent, the saturation level of the six-membered ring, and the mode of attachment of the 2-aminothiazole ring.

The present study describes the synthesis and in vitro pharmacology of a novel series of dopaminergic agents in which the classical phenylethylamine pharmacophore is replaced by a thienylethylamine moiety. In general, the novel compounds showed a moderate affinity for the dopamine (DA) D-2 and D-3 receptors. When the thienylethylamine moiety is fixed in a rigid system, the affinity for the DA receptor is significantly increased. However, in the tricyclic hexahydrothianaphthoxazine structure, the affinity for the DA receptors is diminished.

After decades of research around dopamine agonists, we have found a promising compound in S-PD148903 that represents a new type of prodrug, which in the rat is bioactivated to the catecholamine S-5,6-diOH-DPAT, known to display mixed dopamine D-1/D-2 receptor agonist properties just like apomorphine. This prodrug has an enone structure which by an oxidative bioactivation mechanism is converted to the corresponding catechol and is delivered enantioselectively into the CNS. This novel concept has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of Parkinson's disease by competing with L-DOPA, the current treatment of choice.

Epinephrine (E), norepinephrine (NE), and dopamine (DA) belong to a class of compounds known as catecholamines. A number of physical and chemical properties of E and NE, together with analytical techniques used to measure these amines and their metabolites, are reviewed. E was originally isolated from bovine adrenal glands; however, E and related compounds are now synthesized commercially from the starting material, catechol. The biosynthesis, storage, release, and the termination of action of catecholamines by re-uptake into the presynaptic neuron that released the amine, plus mechanisms involved in regulating levels of amines in the nerve terminals, are reviewed. By virtue of functional and molecular biology studies, at least 15 subtypes of catecholamine receptors have been identified. In most cases, these physically distinct subtypes each have important second messengers and pharmacological consequences that are summarized. Catecholamines and related compounds exhibit a wide diversity of physiological functions, and thus are involved therapeutically in a wide range of uses both in the peripheral and central nervous system. Keywords: Epinephrine; Norepinephrine; Metabolism; Catecholamines; Regulations; Storage; Release; Metabolite; Receptors; Pharmacology; Second messengers; Molecular biology; Therapeutic uses; DOPA; Parkinson's disease; Vasoconstrictors

PD 158771 has been described in receptor binding and biochemical tests as a partial agonist at dopamine (DA) D2 and D3 receptors as well as an agonist at serotonin (5-HT) 1A receptors. The present studies describe the profile of PD 158771 in rodent and primate behavioral tests. PD 158771 reduced spontaneous locomotor activity in mice (ED 50 =0.38 mg/kg, i.p.) and rats (ED 50 =1.2 mg/kg, i.p. and 0.16 mg/kg, s.c.), and reduced amphetamine-stimulated locomotion in mice (ED 50 =0.13 mg/kg, i.p.). At relatively higher doses up to 3 mg/kg, s.c. in rats, PD 158771 did not produce locomotor stimulation or induce stereotypy, indicating a lack of postsynaptic DA agonist activity. PD 158771 reduced apomorphine stimulated locomotion in rats at a dose 4.6-fold greater than those that reduced spontaneous locomotor activity, indicating weak postsynaptic DA antagonist actions; results consistent with a partial agonist profile. PD 158771 produced anxiolytic-like effects in the water-lick (Vogel) conflict test, effects possibly due to the 5-HT 1A activity. However, PD 158771 was inactive in the water wheel behavioral despair model in rats, indicating lack of antidepressant properties. Similar to known antipsychotics, PD 158771 produced a potent and long-lasting inhibition of conditioned avoidance responding in squirrel monkeys. In contrast to standard antipsychotics, and similar to clozapine, PD 158771 did not cause catalepsy in rats at a dose 20-fold higher than the ED 50 dose for locomotor inhibition. PD 158771 also had a somewhat lower liability than haloperidol to produce extrapyramidal dysfunction in squirrel and cebus monkeys sensitized to the dystonic effects of haloperidol. The data indicate that PD 158771 is a DA partial agonist with weak intrinsic activity that selectively activates brain DA autoreceptors. PD 158771 produced behavioral effects consistent with potential antipsychotic and anxiolytic efficacy, and has an improved profile in the extrapyramidal side effect model when compared to certain currently available antipsychotic agents.

As part of a program to develop dopamine D4 antagonists for the treatment of schizophrenia, we discovered a series of 6- and 7-(phenylpiperazinyl)- and -(phenylpiperidinyl)methylbenzoxazinones through mass screening of our compound library. A structure-activity relationship SAR study was carried out involving substituents on the phenyl ring, and several selective D4 antagonists were identified. The 7-substituted benzoxazinones showed more activity in neurochemical and behavioral tests than the 6-substituted series. One of the most potent and selective compounds (26) was found to have potent activity in animal tests predictive of antipsychotic activity in humans after oral administration. This paper describes the SAR of the benzoxazinone series and the preclinical characterization of 26.

The discovery of a series of chromen-2-ones with selective affinity for the dopamine (DA) D4 receptor is described. Target compounds were tested for binding to cloned human DA D2L, D3, and D4.2 receptor subtypes expressed in Chinese hamster ovary K1 cells. Several compounds demonstrated high affinity (

PD 108635 (1) was identified as a potent dopamine D4 ligand and we wanted to replace the benzylic alcohol with a metabolically more stable moiety. Investigations led to the discovery of a series of isoindolinones having D4 affinity.

The anticonvulsant drug gabapentin has been shown recently to exhibit anxiolytic and analgesic actions in animals. Such actions have been postulated in part to reflect effects on biogenic amine neuronal activity. Therefore the effects of gabapentin on biogenic amine neuronal activity were assessed by measuring the synthesis of norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) in rat brain and on the release of [3H] NE from rat hippocampal slices both in the presence and absence of the depolarizing agent 3,4-diaminopyridine (DAP). Gabapentin (30 and 100 mg/kg, i.p.) did not alter the basal synthesis rates of NE and DA as assessed by the unchanged accumulation of L-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) in the NE-enriched hippocampus and cortex and in the DA-enriched striatum and mesolimbic areas. Gabapentin also did not alter 5-HT synthesis as determined by the unaltered accumulation of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) in the same brain areas. DAP (2 mg/kg, i.p.) induced a modest but significant increase in DOPA accumulation in the hippocampal, mesolimbic and striatal regions. This DAP-induced increase in DOPA accumulation was antagonized significantly in the hippocampus and mesolimbic regions by gabapentin at 30 and 100 mg/kg and in striatum by 100 mg/kg; a 10 mg/kg dose was inactive. DAP increased selectively 5-HT synthesis in hippocampus and this effect was blocked by gabapentin. These findings indicate that the increased synthesis of biogenic amines induced by DAP is antagonized by gabapentin. In support of the in vivo studies, gabapentin was also shown to inhibit the DAP-evoked release of [3H]NE from hippocampal slices. Although the underlying mechanism for these effects is unclear, the present findings nevertheless demonstrate that gabapentin has inhibitory effects on stimulated NE, DA and 5-HT neurons that may be involved in explaining in part the CNS effects of this drug.

A series of 3-imino-2-indolones are the first published, high-affinity antagonists of the galanin GAL3 receptor. One example, 1,3-dihydro-1-phenyl-3-[[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]imino]-2H-indol-2-one (9), was shown to have high affinity for the human GAL3 receptor (Ki=17 nM) and to be highly selective for GAL3 over a broad panel of targets, including GAL1 and GAL2. Compound 9 was also shown to be an antagonist in a human GAL3 receptor functional assay (Kb=29 nM).

A novel series of aryl 1-but-3-ynyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridines with dopaminergic activity is described. The structure-activity relationships of this series were studied by synthesis of analogs and evaluation of their affinities for the dopamine (DA) D2 receptor and inhibition of locomotor activity (LMA) in rodents. The basic amine, alkyne chain length, and aryl groups were varied. Compounds having a 4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine and an aryl group with hydrogen-bonding substituents separated by a butynyl chain were found to have the most potent dopaminergic activity. Several compounds that were found to have exceptional in vivo activity in LMA inhibition in rodents were evaluated for additional pharmacological activity including binding affinities for other DA receptor subtypes as well as effects on brain DA synthesis, DA neuronal firing, and conditioned avoidance responding in squirrel monkeys.

PD 128907 [4a R, 10 b R-(+)-trans-3, 4, 4a, 10 b-tetrahydro-4-n-propyl2 H,5H-[1]benzop-yrano[4,3-b] 1,4-oxazin-9-ol.], a selective dopamine (DA) D3 receptor agonist ligand exhibits about a 1000-fold selectivity for human D3 receptors (K-i, 1 nM) versus human D-2 receptors (K-i, 1183 nM) and a 10000-fold selectivity versus human D-4 receptors (K-i, 7000 nM) using [H-3]spiperone as the radioligand in CHO-K1-cells. Studies with [H-3]PD 128907, showed saturable, high affinity binding to human D-4 receptors expressed in CHO-K1 cells (CHO-K1-D-3) with an equilibrium dissociation constant (K-d) of 0.99 nM and a binding density (B-max) of 475 fmol/mg protein. Under the same conditions, there was no significant specific binding in CHO-K1-cells expressing human D-2 receptors (CHO-K1-D-2). The rank order of potency for inhibition of [H-3]PD 128907 binding with reference DA agents was consistent with reported values for D-3 receptors. These results indicate that [H-3]PD 128907 is a new, highly selective D-3 receptor ligand with high specific activity, high specific binding and low non-specific binding and therefore should be useful for further characterizing the DAD(3) receptors.

Analogs of dopamine D2 agonist 11 were prepared in which a rigid trans decalin ring system was used to mimic various conformations of 11. The four rigid analogs where compared for their ability to bind to the DA D2 receptor and to inhibit forskolin-stimulated cAMP formation, a measure of DA agonist activity. Of the four rigid analogs of compound 11, only compound 12b had significant activity in both assays. Molecular modeling studies of 12a-d showed each had a single conformation with regard to the distance between the benzamide aryl-centroid and the 4-nitrogen atom of the pyridylpiperazine. Compound 12b was shown to have a greater distance between these functionalities (11.8 A) as compared to the other isomers (9.8-10.4 A). The distance between these two functionalities in 12b was similar to that of a conformer of 11 which has an extended conformation. This suggest that 11 is likely in an extended conformation when bound to the DA D2 receptor.

Neurotensin (NT), is a linear tetradecapeptide (pGlu1-Leu2-Tyr3-Glu4-Asn5- Lys6-Pro7-Arg8-Arg9-Pro10-Tyr11-Ile12-Leu13) that has been found in the central nervous system and peripheral tissues and appears to have a variety of physiological properties. A C-terminal hexapeptide analogue [N alpha Me-Arg-Lys-Pro-Trp-Tle-Leu, (1) Tle = tert-leucine] has recently been reported to have high affinity for the NT receptor and appears to possess central activity after systemic administration. In an effort to probe the structure-activity and conformational properties of the dipeptide, Pro-Trp for binding and functional activity, these residues have been substituted with several natural and unnatural amino acids. Some of these analogues have binding affinities similar to compound 1, while in other cases, such as D-amino acid substitutions, the peptides had negligible binding affinity. In general, the Pro10 position seems more tolerant of substitution by amino acids that favor a reverse turn, rather than those that favor an extended conformation. The Trp11 position accepted extra steric bulk more readily than conformational constraints.

The enantiomers of reduced haloperidol (3a), azaperol (3b), and the related compound BMY-14802 (3c) were prepared in high optical purity. The affinity of these compounds for dopamine D2 and D3 receptors, and sigma S1 and S2 sites was determined in vitro. Both enantiomers of 3a display greatly decreased affinity for D2 and D3 receptors compared to haloperidol, although they still possess affinities in the 100-200-nM range. Both enantiomers of 3a possess potent and equal affinity for S1 sites (Ki: 1-2 nM), only slightly weaker than haloperidol (Ki: 0.33 nM). At S2 sites, (R)-(+)-3a displays similar affinity to haloperidol (Ki: 31 and 26 nM, respectively), while (S)-(-)-3a is slight more potent (Ki: 8.2 nM). The stereoselectivity profile of the enantiomers of 3b at D2 and D3 receptors is quite similar to that of 3a, (S)-(-)-3b being about 4 times more potent than its enantiomer at both receptors. (R)-(+)-3b binds preferentially to sigma S1 over S2 sites, while (S)-(-)-3b displays the opposite selectivity profile. Both enantiomers of 3c possess very weak affinity for D2 and D3 receptors. In a manner similar to the enantiomers of 3b, the affinity of (R)-(+)-3c is greater for S1 than S2 sites, while (S)-(-)-3c displays the opposite selectivity profile. Following parenteral administration of both enantiomers of 3a, dopamine synthesis and turnover in rat striatum, cortex, and mesolimbic areas were increased, in a manner similar to the effects produced by haloperidol itself. Additional studies will be required to assess with certainty whether the effects were due to the compounds themselves or simply were a consequence of the in vivo oxidation to haloperidol.

The R -(+)-isomer of 7-hydroxy-2-( N , N -di- n -propylamino)tetralin (7-OH-DPAT) bound with a more than 200-fold higher affinity to cloned human dopamine D 3 receptors ( K i = 0.57 nM) than to dopamine D 2 receptors; the corresponding S -(−)-enantiomer had considerably less affinity for both dopamine receptor subtypes, indicating that the known enantiomer selctivity of 7-OH-DPAT for the ‘classical’ dopamine D 2 receptor subtype extends to the recently discovered dopamine D 3 receptor subtype. In rats R -(+)-7-OH-DPAT dose dependently (10–1000 nmol/kg) decreased dopamine release and induced yawning, while sniffing behaviour occured at the highest dose tested (1000 nmol/kg). The possibility that the inhibition of dopamine release and the elicitation of yawning are mediated by dopamine D 3 receptors is considered.

The synthesis and pharmacological properties of a novel type of [(arylpiperazinyl)alkoxy]-4H-1-benzopyran-4-ones with dopaminergic activity are described. The nature of the arylpiperazine (AP) moiety determines the dopamine (DA) agonist/antagonist character of this series of compounds; when the aryl portion of the AP is unsubstituted the compounds appear to be DA autoreceptor agonists while substituted aryl groups seem to impart DA antagonist activity. A heterocyclic piperazine, 7-[3-[4-(2-pyridinyl)-1-piperazinyl]propoxy]-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one (31, PD 119819) has been identified as an extremely selective DA autoreceptor agonist in tests that include [3H]haloperidol binding, inhibition of spontaneous locomotor activity, inhibition of brain DA synthesis, inhibition of brain DA neuronal firing, stereotypy assessment, and reversal of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) induced akinesia in rats. In addition, 31 possesses good oral activity in the Sidman avoidance test in squirrel monkeys, a predictor of clinical antipsychotic efficacy. In another primate model, 31 has been found to lack the liability for extrapyramidal side effects observed with currently available antipsychotic drugs.