ACS Chemical Neuroscience · 2012 · 56 citations · 25 references
PharmacyMedicinal ChemistryPharmacologyDrug DesignDrug DiscoveryLead OptimizationChemical Library DesignLigand BindingLigand-based DesignPotency OptimizationReceptor PharmacologyReceptor-ligand InteractionsAntagonist PotencyBinding Affinity ProfilingKappa Opioid Receptor PharmacologyLigand Design For ReceptorsLigand-based Library DesignReceptor Binding OptimizationSmall-molecule Library DesignStructure-based Ligand Design
Herein we present the outcome of a high throughput screening (HTS) campaign-based strategy for the rapid identification and optimization of selective and general chemotypes for both kappa (κ) opioid receptor (KOR) activation and inhibition. In this program, we have developed potent antagonists (IC(50) < 120 nM) or agonists of high binding affinity (K(i) < 3 nM). In contrast to many important KOR ligands, the compounds presented here are highly modular, readily synthesized and, in most cases, achiral. The four new chemotypes hold promise for further development into chemical tools for studying the KOR or as potential therapeutic lead candidates.
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