Influence of the 5-HT₆Receptor on Acetylcholine Release in the Cortex:  Pharmacological Characterization of 4-(2-Bromo-6-pyrrolidin-1-ylpyridine-4-sulfonyl)phenylamine, a Potent and Selective 5-HT₆Receptor Antagonist

Abstract

A small series of aryl pyridyl sulfones has been prepared and investigated for its 5-HT(6) receptor binding properties. Thereof, pyrrolidinyl derivative 11 proved to be a very potent (pK(i) 9) and selective 5-HT(6) receptor antagonist. By means of in vivo microdialysis in the frontal cortex and a passive avoidance paradigm, where 11 reversed a scopolamine induced retention deficit, a functional correlation between 5-HT(6) receptors and cholinergic neurotransmission could be shown, supporting the therapeutic potential of 5-HT(6) receptors in the treatment of cognitive deficits.