1,4-Benzodioxane, an evergreen, versatile scaffold in medicinal chemistry: A review of its recent applications in drug design

1,4-Benzodioxane has long been a versatile template widely employed to design molecules endowed with diverse bioactivities. Its use spans the last decades of medicinal chemistry until today concerning many strategies of drug discovery, not excluding the most advanced ones. Here, more than fifty benzodioxane-related lead compounds, selected from recent literature, are presented showing the different approaches with which they have been developed. Agonists and antagonists at neuronal nicotinic, α₁ adrenergic and serotoninergic receptor subtypes and antitumor and antibacterial agents form the most representative classes, but a variety of other biological targets are addressed by benzodioxane-containing compounds.

Identification of 3,4-dihydro-2H-thiochromene 1,1-dioxide derivatives with a phenoxyethylamine group as highly potent and selective α1D adrenoceptor antagonists

A series of phenoxyethylamine derivatives was designed and synthesized to discover potent and selective human α_1D adrenoceptor (α_1D adrenergic receptor; α_1D-AR) antagonists. Compound 7 was taken from our internal compound collection as an attractive starting point and exhibited moderate binding affinity for α_1D-AR and high selectivity against α_1A- and α_1B-ARs. We focused on modifying the 2-methylsulfonylbenzyl group of 7 to discover novel compounds structurally distinct from other reported α₁-AR antagonists containing the phenoxyethylamine motif. Study of structure activity relationship guided by a targeted ligand-lipophilicity efficiency score led to the discovery of a novel scaffold of 3,4-dihydro-2H-thiochromene 1,1-dioxide for selective α_1D-AR antagonists. Further optimization studies resulted in the identification of (4S)-N⁴-[2-(2,5-difluorophenoxy)ethyl]-N⁶-methyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-thiochromene-4,6-diamine 1,1-dioxide, (S)-41, as a novel, highly potent and selective α_1D-AR antagonist. Herein, we provide details of the structure activity relationship of the phenoxyethylamine analog for the potency and selectivity.

Antagonistic effects of atipamezole, yohimbine and prazosin on medetomidine-induced diuresis in healthy cats

This study aimed to investigate and compare the antagonistic effects of atipamezole, yohimbine and prazosin on medetomidine-induced diuresis in healthy cats. Five cats were repeatedly used in each of the 9 groups. One group was not medicated. Cats in the other groups received 40 µg/kg medetomidine intramuscularly and saline (as the control), 160 µg/kg prazosin, or 40, 160 or 480 µg/kg atipamezole or yohimbine intravenously 0.5 hr later. Volume, pH and specific gravity of urine; plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) level; and creatinine, osmolality and electrolyte levels in both urine and plasma were measured. Both atipamezole and yohimbine, but not prazosin, antagonized medetomidine-induced diuresis. The antidiuretic effect of atipamezole was more potent than that of yohimbine, but was not dose dependent, in contrast to the effect of yohimbine at the tested doses. Both atipamezole and yohimbine reversed medetomidine-induced decreases in both urine specific gravity and osmolality and increases in plasma osmolality and free-water clearance. Antidiuresis of either atipamezole or yohimbine was not related to the area under the curve for AVP level, although the highest dose of both atipamezole and yohimbine initially and temporarily increased plasma AVP levels, suggesting that this may partly influence the antidiuretic effects of both agents. The diuretic effect of medetomidine in cats may be mediated by α₂-adrenoceptors, but not α₁-adrenoceptors. Atipamezole and yohimbine can be used as antagonistic agents against medetomidine-induced diuresis in healthy cats.

Rational design, synthesis, biological evaluation, homology and docking studies of coumarin derivatives as α1 -adrenoceptor antagonists

According to a three-point pharmacophore for some uro-selective α(1) -adrenoceptor (AR) antagonists, a novel class of coumarin (=2H-1-benzopyran-2-one) derivatives have been successfully designed and synthesized with high efficacies for α(1) -AR. These synthesized coumarin derivatives exhibited high efficacies towards α(1) -AR in in vitro pharmacological assays. Compared with prazosin (pK(i) value of 8.77), among those coumarins, tolylpiperazine-substituted derivatives, 7 and 8, have comparable pK(i) values of 8.81 and 8.77, respectively. The trend in efficacies of these coumarin derivatives towards α(1A) -adrenoceptor was further rationalized by intensive molecular docking. Our work demonstrated that the designed coumarin derivatives can inhibit α(1) -AR in vitro. These findings will provide a guide for further studies of the medical therapy of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Regulation of hippocampal alpha1d adrenergic receptor mRNA by corticosterone in adrenalectomized rats

The hippocampal formation receives extensive noradrenergic projections and expresses high levels of mineralocorticoid (MR) and glucocorticoid (GR) receptors. Considerable evidence suggests that the noradrenergic system influences hippocampal corticosteroid receptors. However, there is relatively little data describing the influence of glucocorticoids on noradrenergic receptors in the hippocampal formation. alpha1d adrenergic receptor (ADR) mRNA is expressed at high levels in the hippocampal formation, within cells that express MR or GR. In order to determine whether expression of alpha1d ADR mRNA is influenced by circulating glucocorticoids, male rats underwent bilateral adrenalectomy (ADX) or sham surgery, and were killed after 1, 3, 7 or 14 days. Levels of alpha1d ADR mRNA were profoundly decreased in hippocampal subfields CA1, CA2 and CA3 and the medial and lateral blades of the dentate gyrus, as early as 1day after ADX, as determined by in situ hybridization. The effect was specific for the hippocampal formation, with levels of alpha1d mRNA unaltered by ADX in the lateral amygdala, reticular thalamic nucleus, retrosplenial cortex or primary somatosensory cortex. Additional rats underwent ADX or sham surgery and received a corticosterone pellet (10 or 50mg) or placebo for 7 days. Corticosterone replacement prevented the ADX-induced decrease in hippocampal alpha1d ADR mRNA, with the magnitude of effect depending on corticosterone dose and hippocampal subregion. These data indicate that alpha1d ADR mRNA expression in the hippocampal formation is highly sensitive to circulating levels of corticosterone, and provides further evidence for a close interaction between glucocorticoids and the noradrenergic system in the hippocampus.

Identification of the alpha1L-adrenoceptor in rat cerebral cortex and possible relationship between alpha1L- and alpha1A-adrenoceptors

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

In addition to alpha1A, alpha1B and alpha1D-adrenoceptors (ARs), putative alpha1L-ARs with a low affinity for prazosin have been proposed. The purpose of the present study was to identify the alpha1A-AR and clarify its pharmacological profile using a radioligand binding assay.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Binding experiments with [3H]-silodosin and [3H]-prazosin were performed in intact tissue segments and crude membrane preparations of rat cerebral cortex. Intact tissue binding assays were also conducted in rat tail artery.

KEY RESULTS

[3H]-silodosin at subnanomolar concentrations specifically bound to intact tissue segments and membrane preparations of rat cerebral cortex at the same density (approximately 150 fmol mg(-1) total tissue protein). The binding sites in intact segments consisted of alpha1A and alpha1L-ARs that had different affinities for prazosin, while the binding sites in membranes showed an alpha1A-AR-like profile having single high affinity for prazosin. [3H]-prazosin also bound at subnanomolar concentrations to alpha1A and alpha1B-ARs but not alpha1L-ARs in cerebral cortex; the binding densities being approximately 200 and 290 fmol mg(-1) protein in the segments and the membranes, respectively. In the segments of tail artery, [3H]-silodosin only recognized alpha1A-ARs, whereas [3H]-prazosin bound to alpha1A and alpha1B-ARs.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The present study clearly reveals the presence of alpha1L-ARs as a pharmacologically distinct entity from alpha1A and alpha1B-ARs in intact tissue segments of rat cerebral cortex but not tail artery. However, the alpha1L-ARs disappeared after tissue homogenization, suggesting their decomposition and/or their pharmacological profile changes to that of alpha1A-ARs.

A final common pathway for depression? Progress toward a general conceptual framework

Functional neuroimaging studies of depressed patients have converged with functional brain mapping studies of depressed animals in showing that depression is accompanied by a hypoactivity of brain regions involved in positively motivated behavior together with a hyperactivity in regions involved in stress responses. Both sets of changes are reversed by diverse antidepressant treatments. It has been proposed that this neural pattern underlies the symptoms common to most forms of the depression, which are the loss of positively motivated behavior and increased stress. The paper discusses how this framework can organize diverse findings ranging from effects of monoamine neurotransmitters, cytokines, corticosteroids and neurotrophins on depression. The hypothesis leads to new insights concerning the relationship between the prolonged inactivity of the positive motivational network during a depressive episode and the loss of neurotrophic support, the potential antidepressant action of corticosteroid treatment, and to the key question of whether antidepressants act by inhibiting the activity of the stress network or by enhancing the activity of the positive motivational system.

A final common pathway for depression: implications for therapy

Depression in humans and animal models has been found to be accompanied by a hypoactivity of brain regions involved in positively motivated behavior together with a hyperactivity in regions involved in stress responses. Both sets of changes are reversed by diverse antidepressant treatments. It has been proposed that this neural pattern underlies the symptoms common to most forms of depression, which are the loss of positively motivated behavior and the increase in stress. The present paper discusses how this framework can organize diverse findings on the multiple factors associated with this disorder. The hypothesis suggests new therapeutic strategies involving treatment with low-dose corticosteroids to suppress the stress network or with antagonists of alpha(1A)- and agonists of alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors to disinhibit or activate the positive motivational network, respectively.

“Phenotypic” pharmacology: The influence of cellular environment on G protein-coupled receptor antagonist and inverse agonist pharmacology

A central dogma of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) pharmacology has been the concept that unlike agonists, antagonist ligands display equivalent affinities for a given receptor, regardless of the cellular environment in which the affinity is assayed. Indeed, the widespread use of antagonist pharmacology in the classification of receptor expression profiles in vivo has relied upon this 'antagonist assumption'. However, emerging evidence suggests that the same gene-product may exhibit different antagonist pharmacological profiles, depending upon the cellular context in which it is expressed-so-called 'phenotypic' profiles. In this commentary, we review the evidence relating to some specific examples, focusing on adrenergic and muscarinic acetylcholine receptor systems, where GPCR antagonist/inverse agonist pharmacology has been demonstrated to be cell- or tissue-dependent, before going on to examine some of the ways in which the cellular environment might modulate receptor pharmacology. In the majority of cases, the cellular factors responsible for generating phenotypic profiles are unknown, but there is substantial evidence that factors, including post-transcriptional modifications, receptor oligomerization and constitutive receptor activity, can influence GPCR pharmacology and these concepts are discussed in relation to antagonist phenotypic profiles. A better molecular understanding of the impact of cell background on GPCR antagonist pharmacology is likely to provide previously unrealized opportunities to achieve greater specificity in new drug discovery candidates.

Synthesis and α1-adrenoceptor antagonist activity of derivatives and isosters of the furan portion of (+)-cyclazosin

alpha(1)-Adrenoceptor selective antagonists are crucial in investigating the role and biological functions of alpha(1)-adrenoceptor subtypes. We synthesized and studied the alpha(1)-adrenoceptor blocking properties of new molecules structurally related to the alpha(1B)-adrenoceptor selective antagonist (+)-cyclazosin, in an attempt to improve its receptor selectivity. In particular, we investigated the importance of substituents introduced at position 5 of the 2-furan moiety of (+)-cyclazosin and its replacement with classical isosteric rings. The 5-methylfuryl derivative (+)-3, [(+)-metcyclazosin], improved the pharmacological properties of the progenitor, displaying a competitive antagonism and an 11 fold increased selectivity for alpha(1B) over alpha(1A), while maintaining a similar selectivity for the alpha(1B)-adrenoceptor relative to the alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor. Compound (+)-3 may represent a useful tool for alpha(1B)-adrenoceptor characterization in functional studies.

New 1,2,3,9-tetrahydro-4H-carbazol-4-one derivatives: analogues of HEAT as ligands for the alpha1-adrenergic receptor subtypes

With the aim to develop new ligands able to discriminate among the three subtypes of alpha1-adrenergic receptors (alpha1A-AR, alpha1B-AR, and alpha1D-AR), a series of new 1,2,3,9-tetrahydro-4H-carbazol-4-ones bearing a 3-[[[2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethyl]amino]methyl] or a 3-[[4-(2-substitutedphenyl)piperazin-1-yl]methyl] side chain were synthesized. The general structure of the new compounds is reminiscent of HEAT and RN5, two potent alpha1-AR antagonists which show high affinities for all three alpha1-AR subtypes. Some derivatives in which one ring of the tetrahydrocarbazolone system was opened were also prepared. Compounds were tested in radioligand binding assays on human cloned alpha1A-AR, alpha1B-AR, and alpha1D-AR subtypes stably expressed in HEK293 cells. They showed moderate to good affinities, although their selectivity among the receptor subtypes hardly reached one order of magnitude.

Quantitative structure–activity relationship study of new potent and selective antagonists at the 5-HT1Aand adrenergic α1dreceptors: Derivatives of spiroethyl phenyl(substituted)piperazine

The antagonistic activities of derivatives of spiroethyl phenyl(substituted)piperazine at the 5-HT(1A) and adrenergic alpha(1d) receptors is quantitatively analyzed employing physicochemical and structural parameters. The derived correlation equation revealed that a substituent, other than 2-CH3 in the phenyl ring, having higher molar refraction, MR, and a substituent producing higher positive field effect at the 3-position are beneficial in increasing the binding affinity at the 5-HT(1A) receptor. In addition, a less hydrophobic substituent at the 4-position is also helpful in augmenting the binding affinity. The 5-R substituents which have higher MR values, however, elicit a detrimental effect. Two disubstituted compounds which are not present in the original data-set and have higher theoretical binding affinities are designed from the correlation equation. These compounds consisting of 2-OCH(CH3)2, 3-Cl and 2-C3H7, 3-Cl in the phenyl ring, have theoretical pK(i) values 10.57 and 10.12 respectively. For the adrenergic alpha(1d) receptor, a less bulky group at the 3-position with 5-Cl (or simply a 3-Cl) is advantageous in increasing the binding affinity. Likewise, a substituent exhibiting a less negative resonance effect at the 4-position and the substituent with low polarizability and showing more a negative resonance effect at the 5-position are suitable for enhancement of the binding affinity. The analysis provides the grounds for rationalizing substituent selection in designing better potency antagonists in the series.

Recent progress in alpha1-adrenergic receptor research

Alpha1-Adrenergic receptors (AR) play an important role in the regulation of physiological responses mediated by norepinephrine and epinephrine, particularly in the cardiovascular system. The three cloned alpha1-AR subtypes (alpha1A, alpha1B, and alpha1D) are G protein-coupled receptors that signal through the Gq/11 signaling pathway, each showing distinct pharmacological properties and tissue distributions. However, due to the lack of highly subtype-selective drugs, the functional roles of individual subtypes are still not clear. Development of new subtype-specific drugs will greatly facilitate the identification of the functions of each subtype. Conopeptide rho-TIA has been found to be a new alpha1B-AR selective antagonist with different modes of inhibition at alpha1-AR subtypes. In addition, recent studies using genetically engineered mice have shed some light on alpha1-AR functions in vivo, especially in the cardiovascular system and brain. Several proteins have been shown to interact directly with particular alpha1-AR, and may be important in regulating receptor function. Receptor heterodimerization has been shown to be important for cell surface expression, signaling and internalization. These new observations are likely to help elucidate the functional roles of individual alpha1-AR subtypes.

(+)-Cyclazosin, a selective α1B-adrenoceptor antagonist: Functional evaluation in rat and rabbit tissues

To shed light on the discrepancy between reported binding and functional affinity and selectivity at alpha(1b/B)-adrenoceptors, the antagonist (+)-cyclazosin was reinvestigated in rat and rabbit tissues. It displayed a competitive antagonism at alpha(1A) and alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors of rat prostatic vas deferens and aorta with pA(2) values 7.75 and 7.27, respectively. In rabbit thoracic aorta (+)-cyclazosin competitively antagonized noradrenaline-induced contractions at alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors with a pA(2) value of 8.85, whereas its affinity at alpha(1L)-adrenoceptors was markedly lower (pA(2) = 6.75-7.09). In conclusion, these data confirmed that (+)-cyclazosin is a selective alpha(1B)-adrenoceptor antagonist also in functional assays, showing 13- and 38-fold selectivity for the alpha(1B)-adrenoceptor over alpha(1A)- and alpha(1D)-subtypes, respectively. Furthermore, (+)-cyclazosin displayed a significant selectivity for alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors relative to the alpha(1L)-subtype.

Antipsychotics lack alpha 1A/B adrenoceptor subtype selectivity in the rat

The alpha1A- and alpha1B-adrenoceptor affinity of the typical (chlorpromazine, haloperidol, pimozide, thioridazine and trifluoperazine) and atypical (clozapine, olanzapine, quetiapine, risperidone and sertindole) antipsychotics was determined by competition binding at alpha1A- and alpha1B-adrenoceptors in rat submaxillary gland and liver. Although all antipsychotics bound to both subtypes with relatively high affinity (K(i)s<74 nM), none were selective (>10-fold). Comparison with published dopamine D2 receptor affinities suggests that antipsychotic blockade of alpha1A- and/or alpha1B-adrenoceptors may contribute to the antipsychotic activity of all the atypical and several of the typical antipsychotics examined.

Synthesis of 3-Arylpiperazinylalkylpyrrolo[3,2-d]pyrimidine-2,4-dione Derivatives as Novel, Potent, and Selective α1-Adrenoceptor Ligands

Novel compounds characterized by a pyrrolo[3,2-d]pyrimidine-2,4-dione (PPm) system connected through an alkyl chain to a phenylpiperazine (PPz) residue were designed as structural analogues of the alpha(1)-adrenoceptor (alpha(1)-AR) ligand RN5 (1). In this new series of derivatives an arylpyrrolo moiety has replaced the indole nucleus of RN5. Several structural modifications were performed on the PPm and PPz moieties and the connecting alkyl chain. These compounds were synthesized and tested in radioligand binding experiments where many of them showed interesting binding profiles. Some compounds, including 31, 34, and 36, displayed substantial alpha(1)-AR selectivity with respect to serotoninergic 5-HT(1A) and dopaminergic D(1) and D(2) receptors. Two different molecular modeling approaches (pharmacophoric mapping and quantitative structure-affinity relationship analysis) have been applied to rationalize, at a quantitative level, the relationships between affinity toward alpha(1)-ARs and the structure of the studied compounds. Several QSAR models have been reported and described, accounting for the influence of various molecular portions on such affinity data.

Subtype-selective Noncompetitive or Competitive Inhibition of Human α1-Adrenergic Receptors by ρ-TIA

The 19-amino acid conopeptide (rho-TIA) was shown previously to antagonize noncompetitively alpha(1B)-adrenergic receptors (ARs). Because this is the first peptide ligand for these receptors, we compared its interactions with the three recombinant human alpha(1)-AR subtypes (alpha(1A), alpha(1B), and alpha(1D)). Radioligand binding assays showed that rho-TIA was 10-fold selective for human alpha(1B)-over alpha(1A)- and alpha(1D)-ARs. As observed with hamster alpha(1B)-ARs, rho-TIA decreased the number of binding sites (B(max)) for human alpha(1B)-ARs without changing affinity (K(D)), and this inhibition was unaffected by the length of incubation but was reversed by washing. However, rho-TIA had opposite effects at human alpha(1A)-ARs and alpha(1D)-ARs, decreasing K(D) without changing B(max), suggesting it acts competitively at these subtypes. rho-TIA reduced maximal NE-stimulated [(3)H]inositol phosphate formation in HEK293 cells expressing human alpha(1B)-ARs but competitively inhibited responses in cells expressing alpha(1A)- or alpha(1D)-ARs. Truncation mutants showed that the amino-terminal domains of alpha(1B)- or alpha(1D)-ARs are not involved in interaction with rho-TIA. Alanine-scanning mutagenesis of rho-TIA showed F18A had an increased selectivity for alpha(1B)-ARs, and F18N also increased subtype selectivity. I8A had a slightly reduced potency at alpha(1B)-ARs and was found to be a competitive, rather than noncompetitive, inhibitor in both radioligand and functional assays. Thus rho-TIA noncompetitively inhibits alpha(1B)-ARs but competitively inhibits the other two subtypes, and this selectivity can be increased by mutation. These differential interactions do not involve the receptor amino termini and are not because of the charged nature of the peptide, and isoleucine 8 is critical for its noncompetitive inhibition at alpha(1B)-ARs.

Alpha-1D adrenoceptors are involved in reserpine-induced supersensitivity of rat tail artery

1. We examined reserpine-induced chemical denervation supersensitivity with special reference to alpha-1 adrenoceptor (AR) subtypes. 2. Chronic treatment with reserpine for 2 weeks depleted noradrenaline in the tail artery and spleen of rats. Noradrenaline in the thoracic aorta was negligible before and after reserpine treatment. 3. The treatment with reserpine produced supersensitivity in the contractile responses of the rat tail artery to phenylephrine, 5-HT and KCl, resulting in leftward shift of concentration-response curves (11.6-, 2.5- and 1.1-fold at EC(50) value, respectively). These results suggest a predominant sensitization of the alpha-1 AR-mediated response by reserpine treatment. 4. BMY 7378 at a concentration (30 nm) specific for blocking the alpha-1D AR subtype, but not KMD-3213 at a concentration (10 nm) selective for blocking the alpha-1A AR subtype, inhibited the supersensitivity of the phenylephrine-induced response in the reserpine-treated artery. On the other hand, the response to phenylephrine in reserpine-untreated artery was selectively inhibited by the same concentration of KMD-3213, but not by BMY 7378. Prazosin, a subtype-nonselective antagonist, blocked the responses to phenylephrine with the same potency, regardless of reserpine treatment. 5. In the thoracic aorta and spleen, no supersensitivity was produced in the responses to phenylephrine by reserpine treatment. 6. In a tissue segment-binding study using [(3)H]-prazosin, the total density and affinity of alpha-1 ARs in the rat tail artery were not changed by treatment with reserpine. However, alpha-1D AR with high affinity for BMY 7378 was significantly detected in reserpine-treated tail artery, in contrast to untreated artery. Decreases in alpha-1A AR with high affinity for KMD-3213 and alpha-1B AR with low affinities for KMD-3213 and BMY 7378 were also estimated in reserpine-treated tail artery. 7. Alpha-1D AR mRNA in rat tail artery increased to three-folds by reserpine treatment, whereas the levels of alpha-1A and 1B mRNAs were not significantly changed. 8. The present results suggest that chronic treatment with reserpine affects the expression of alpha-1 AR subtypes of rat tail artery and that the induction of alpha-1D ARs with high affinity for catecholamines is in part associated with reserpine-induced supersensitivity.

Synthesis, screening, and molecular modeling of new potent and selective antagonists at the alpha 1d adrenergic receptor

In the present study, more than 75 compounds structurally related to BMY 7378 have been designed and synthesized. Structural variations of each part of the reference molecule have been introduced, obtaining highly selective ligands for the alpha(1d) adrenergic receptor. The molecular determinants for selectivity at this receptor are essentially held by the phenyl substituent in the phenylpiperazine moiety. The integration of an extensive SAR analysis with docking simulations using the rhodopsin-based models of the three alpha(1)-AR subtypes and of the 5-HT(1A) receptor provides significant insights into the characterization of the receptor binding sites as well as into the molecular determinants of ligand selectivity at the alpha(1d)-AR and the 5-HT(1A) receptors. The results of multiple copies simultaneous search (MCSS) on the substituted phenylpiperazines together with those of manual docking of compounds BMY 7378 and 69 into the putative binding sites of the alpha(1a)-AR, alpha(1b)-AR, alpha(1d)-AR, and the 5-HT(1A) receptors suggest that the phenylpiperazine moiety would dock into a site formed by amino acids in helices 3, 4, 5, 6 and extracellular loop 2 (E2), whereas the spirocyclic ring of the ligand docks into a site formed by amino acids of helices 1, 2, 3, and 7. This docking mode is consistent with the SAR data produced in this work. Furthermore, the binding site of the imide moiety does not allow for the simultaneous involvement of the two carbonyl oxygen atoms in H-bonding interactions, consistent with the SAR data, in particular with the results obtained with the lactam derivative 128. The results of docking simulations also suggest that the second and third extracellular loops may act as selectivity filters for the substituted phenylpiperazines. The most potent and selective compounds for alpha(1d) adrenergic receptor, i.e., 69 (Rec 26D/038) and 128 (Rec 26D/073), are characterized by the presence of the 2,5-dichlorophenylpiperazine moiety.

Prediction of selectivity of α1-adrenergic antagonists by counterpropagation neural network (CP-ANN)

A quantitative structure-selectivity relationships of series of structurally diverse alpha1-adrenergic antagonists was performed by using counter-propagation neural network (CP-ANN). The theoretical molecular descriptors have been calculated and selected using CODESSA program. The results obtained for a highly non-congeneric set of molecules have confirmed the potential of use of CP-ANN approach in prediction of relative activity (selectivity) of alpha1-adrenergic antagonists.

Efficacy of Bunazosin Hydrochloride 0.01% as Adjunctive Therapy of Latanoprost or Timolol

PURPOSE

To evaluate the ocular hypotensive response of bunazosin hydrochloride 0.01% administered as adjunctive therapy in patients with glaucoma who were already receiving latanoprost 0.005% or timolol 0.5%.

METHODS

Patients with primary open angle glaucoma who had received latanoprost (n = 60) or timolol (n = 60) for 6 months or longer were enrolled and prospectively randomized to receive additional administration of bunazosin or placebo. One hundred twenty eyes of 120 patients were thus divided into 4 subgroups of 30 patients each. Bunazosin was administered twice daily, and timolol or latanoprost was administered per label. The patients were followed up for 3 months. Responders were defined as having a reduction in intraocular pressure of greater than 2 mm Hg from baseline.

RESULTS

Mean baseline intraocular pressure was 22.3 +/- 3.0 mm Hg in the bunazosin subgroup and 22.3 +/- 3.1 mm Hg in the placebo subgroup of the latanoprost arm, and 22.5 +/- 3.5 mm Hg in the bunazosin subgroup and 22.3 +/- 3.0 mm Hg in the placebo subgroup of the timolol arm. In the bunazosin subgroups of both arms, intraocular pressure was significantly reduced compared with baseline measurements (P < 0.05) with mean intraocular pressure measurement reductions of 2.1 +/- 2.4 mm Hg and 2.8 +/- 2.1 mm Hg in the latanoprost arm and 2.6 +/- 2.1 mm Hg and 2.8 +/- 2.1 mm Hg in the timolol arm at 6 and 12 weeks after the start of the follow-up, respectively. In the latanoprost group, bunazosin provided a further reduction of intraocular pressure (7.7%) at 12 weeks from that initially obtained at 2 weeks (P = 0.0377). In the placebo subgroups of the latanoprost and timolol arms, no significant change was found between at baseline and at any visit after the start of the follow-up. In the latanoprost and timolol arms, there was a significant difference in intraocular pressure and its change between the bunazosin subgroup and placebo subgroup at any visit after 4 weeks from the start of the follow-up (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Bunazosin hydrochloride 0.01% may provide an additional intraocular pressure reduction in patients already receiving latanoprost or timolol. Since adding bunazosin to eyes treated with latanoprost caused a relatively small hypotensive response at 2 weeks and provided a further reduction from 2 weeks to 12 weeks, longer than 4 weeks may be required to evaluate a clinically meaningful response to treatment. Further investigation on more cases and longer follow-up are needed.

Alpha-1 adrenoceptors: evaluation of receptor subtype-binding kinetics in intact arterial tissues and comparison with membrane binding

The binding kinetics of [3H]-prazosin were measured using intact segments of rat tail artery (RTA) and thoracic aorta (RAO), and the data were compared with those obtained using a conventional membrane ligand-binding method. In intact RTA and RAO segments, [3H]-prazosin bound reversibly in a time-dependent and receptor-specific manner at 4 degrees C to alpha-1 adrenoceptors (ARs) of the plasma membrane, with affinities (pKD): 9.5 in RTA; 9.9 in RAO) that were in agreement with values estimated by a conventional membrane ligand-binding method. However, nonspecific binding was considerably higher in RAO than RTA, failing to detect clearly the specific binding at high concentrations (>300 pm) of [3H]-prazosin in binding experiments with RAO segments and membranes. The abundance of receptor in the RTA and RAO (Bmax mg-1) of total tissue protein), estimated using the tissue segment-binding approach (527+/-14 fmol mg-1 for RTA; 138+/-4 fmol mg-1 for RAO), was about 25-fold higher than values estimated using a conventional membrane-binding method (22+/-5 fmol mg-1) for RTA; 5+/-1 fmol mg-1 for RAO). Binding competition experiments using intact tissue segments or membranes derived from RTA tissue yielded comparable data, indicating a coexistence of alpha-1A AR (high affinity for prazosin, KMD-3213 and WB4101 and low affinity for BMY 7378) and alpha-1B AR (high affinity for prazosin but low affinity for KMD-3213, WB4101 and BMY 7378). In RAO tissue, careful evaluation of the tissue segment-binding assay revealed the coexpression of alpha-1B AR (high affinity for prazosin, but low affinity for KMD-3213 and BMY 7378) and alpha-1D AR (high affinity for prazosin and BMY 7378, but low affinity for KMD-3213), whereas the membrane-binding approach failed to detect these receptor subtypes with certainty. The present study indicates that previous estimates of alpha-1 AR density and alpha-1 AR subtypes obtained by a conventional membrane-binding approach, as opposed to our improved tissue segment-binding assay, may have substantially underestimated the abundance of receptors present in arterial tissues, and may have failed to identify accurately the presence of receptor subtypes. Advantages and disadvantages of the tissue segment-binding approach are discussed.British Journal of Pharmacology (2004) 141, 468-476. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705627

Alpha(1) adrenoceptor subtype selectivity. 3D-QSAR models for a new class of alpha(1) adrenoceptor antagonists derived from the novel antipsychotic sertindole

Receptor-binding affinities for the alpha(1) adrenoceptor subtypes alpha(1a), alpha(1b) and alpha(1d) for a series of 39 alpha(1) adrenoceptor antagonists derived from the antipsychotic sertindole are reported. The SAR of the compounds with respect to affinity for the alpha(1a), alpha(1b) and alpha(1d) adrenoceptor subtypes as well as affinity obtained by an alpha(1) assay (rat brain membranes) were investigated using a 3D-QSAR approach based on the GRID/GOLPE methodology. Good statistics (r(2)=0.91-0.96; q(2)=0.65-0.73) were obtained with the combination of the water (OH2) and methyl (C3) probes. The combination of steric repulsion and electrostatic attractions explain the affinities of the included molecules. The adrenergic alpha(1a) receptor seems to be more tolerant to large substituents in the area between the indole 5- and 6-positions compared to the adrenergic alpha(1b) and alpha(1d) receptor subtypes. There seems to be minor differences in the position of areas in the alpha(1b) receptor compared to alpha(1a) and alpha(1d) receptors where electrostatic interaction between the molecules and the receptor (OH2 probe) contribute to increased affinity. These observations may be used in the design of new subtype selective compounds. In addition, the model based on biological data from an alpha(1) assay (rat brain membranes) resembles the model for the alpha(1b) adrenoceptor subtype.

The neurobiology and control of anxious states

Fear is an adaptive component of the acute "stress" response to potentially-dangerous (external and internal) stimuli which threaten to perturb homeostasis. However, when disproportional in intensity, chronic and/or irreversible, or not associated with any genuine risk, it may be symptomatic of a debilitating anxious state: for example, social phobia, panic attacks or generalized anxiety disorder. In view of the importance of guaranteeing an appropriate emotional response to aversive events, it is not surprising that a diversity of mechanisms are involved in the induction and inhibition of anxious states. Apart from conventional neurotransmitters, such as monoamines, gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) and glutamate, many other modulators have been implicated, including: adenosine, cannabinoids, numerous neuropeptides, hormones, neurotrophins, cytokines and several cellular mediators. Accordingly, though benzodiazepines (which reinforce transmission at GABA(A) receptors), serotonin (5-HT)(1A) receptor agonists and 5-HT reuptake inhibitors are currently the principle drugs employed in the management of anxiety disorders, there is considerable scope for the development of alternative therapies. In addition to cellular, anatomical and neurochemical strategies, behavioral models are indispensable for the characterization of anxious states and their modulation. Amongst diverse paradigms, conflict procedures--in which subjects experience opposing impulses of desire and fear--are of especial conceptual and therapeutic pertinence. For example, in the Vogel Conflict Test (VCT), the ability of drugs to release punishment-suppressed drinking behavior is evaluated. In reviewing the neurobiology of anxious states, the present article focuses in particular upon: the multifarious and complex roles of individual modulators, often as a function of the specific receptor type and neuronal substrate involved in their actions; novel targets for the management of anxiety disorders; the influence of neurotransmitters and other agents upon performance in the VCT; data acquired from complementary pharmacological and genetic strategies and, finally, several open questions likely to orientate future experimental- and clinical-research. In view of the recent proliferation of mechanisms implicated in the pathogenesis, modulation and, potentially, treatment of anxiety disorders, this is an opportune moment to survey their functional and pathophysiological significance, and to assess their influence upon performance in the VCT and other models of potential anxiolytic properties.

Synthesis and structure-affinity relationship investigations of 5-aminomethyl and 5-carbamoyl analogues of the antipsychotic sertindole. A new class of selective alpha1 adrenoceptor antagonists

A new class of selective alpha(1) adrenoceptor antagonists derived from the antipsychotic drug sertindole is described. The most potent and selective compound 1-(2-(4-[5-aminomethyl-1-(4-fluorophenyl)-1H-indol-3-yl]-1-piperidinyl)ethyl)-2-imidazolidinone (11) binds with 0.50 nM affinity for alpha(1) adrenergic receptors and with more than 44 times lower affinity for dopamine D(2),D(3), D(4) and serotonin 5-HT(1A), 5-HT(1B), 5-HT(2A) and 5-HT(2C) receptors. The molecular features providing high affinity for adrenergic alpha(1) receptors and high selectivity towards dopamine D(2) and serotonin 5-HT(2A) and 5-HT(2C) receptors are discussed.

Synthesis and structure-affinity relationship investigations of 5-heteroaryl-substituted analogues of the antipsychotic sertindole. A new class of highly selective alpha(1) adrenoceptor antagonists

A new class of 5-heteroaryl-substituted 1-(4-fluorophenyl)-3-(4-piperidinyl)-1H-indoles as highly selective and potentially CNS-active alpha 1-adrenoceptor antagonists is described. The compounds are derived from the antipsychotic sertindole. The structure-affinity relationships of the 5-heteroaryl substituents, and the substituents on the piperidine nitrogen atom were optimized with respect to affinity for alpha 1 adrenoceptors and selectivity in respect to dopamine (D(1-4)) and serotonin (5-HT(1A-1B) and 5-HT(2A,2C)) receptors. The most selective compound obtained, 3-[4-[1-(4-fluorophenyl)-5-(1-methyl-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)-1H-indol-3-yl]-1-piperidinyl]propionitrile (15c), has affinities of 0.99, 3.2, and 9.0 nM for the alpha(1a), alpha(1b), and alpha(1d) adrenoceptor subtypes, respectively, and a selectivity for adrenergic alpha(1a) receptors in respect to dopamine D2, D3, and D4 and serotonin 5-HT(2A) and 5-HT(2C) higher than 900, comparable to the selectivity of prazosin. In addition, the compound is more than 150-fold selective in respect to serotonin 5-HT(1A) and 5-HT(1B) receptors. A new basic pharmacophore for alpha 1-adrenoceptor antagonists based on a previously reported pharmacophore model for dopamine D2 antagonist is suggested.

Mechanical properties and innervation of the smooth muscle layers of the urethra of greyhounds

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the properties of the smooth muscle layers in the urethral wall of male and female greyhounds, and to consider their roles in continence and micturition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The distribution and innervation of the smooth muscle layers of the prostate capsule and membranous urethra of male greyhounds were assessed. Strips of smooth muscle from these regions were used to determine the neuropharmacological properties by assessing the excitatory and inhibitory responses to nerve stimulation, and the effects of blocking agents. These were compared with strips from the proximal urethra and from the female urethra.

RESULTS

The smooth muscle of the membranous urethra comprised 9% of the wall and received its innervation exclusively in branches from the pelvic plexus. The cholinergic innervation in the male produced 80% of the total contractile response in the longitudinal membranous urethra, 50% in the prostate capsule and 13% in the circular muscle of the proximal urethra. In the female all areas had poor contractile responses. Inhibitory fibres produced relaxation in all parts of male and female urethrae with the major effect caused by nitric oxide. Adrenergic nerves contributed to both residual excitation (alpha receptors) and inhibition (beta receptors).

CONCLUSIONS

The longitudinal smooth muscle of the male membranous urethra probably shortens the urethra during micturition, through the activity of cholinergic nerves, whereas the circular smooth muscle of the proximal urethra, under adrenergic control, may be contracted during continence and ejaculation. In the female, the smooth muscle plays a minor role.

(+/-)-Domesticine, a novel and selective alpha1D-adrenoceptor antagonist in animal tissues and human alpha 1-adrenoceptors

The pharmacological profile of (+/-)-domesticine, a novel alpha(1)-adrenoceptor antagonist, was examined in animal tissues and Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells expressing cloned human alpha(1)-adrenoceptor subtypes and compared with the properties of BMY-7378 ([8-(2-[4-(2-methoxy-phenyl)-1-piperazinyl]ethyl)-8-azaspirol [4.5]decane-7,9-dione dihydrochloride], the prototypical alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor antagonist. Both (+/-)-domesticine and BMY-7378 were more potent in inhibiting the phenylephrine-induced contraction in rat thoracic aorta than tail artery or spleen. The selectivity of (+/-)-domesticine to inhibit phenylephrine-induced contraction in rat thoracic aorta was 32- and 17-fold higher than that in tail artery and spleen, respectively, while that of BMY-7378 it was 125- and 11-fold, respectively. The functional affinity profiles of these compounds for the alpha(1)-adrenoceptor subtypes in animal tissues were consistent with the respective binding affinity profiles in cloned human alpha(1)-adrenoceptor subtypes. (+/-)-Domesticine displayed a 34- and 9-fold higher selectivity for alpha(1d)-adrenoceptor than for alpha(1a)- and alpha(1b)-adrenoceptor, respectively, while BMY-7378 showed a selectivity for alpha(1d)-adrenoceptor of 102-fold higher than that of alpha(1a)-adrenoceptor and 21-fold higher than that of alpha(1b)-adrenoceptor. Interestingly, in [3H]8-OH-DPAT (8-hidroxy-2-(di-n-propyl-amino)tetraline hidrobromide) binding to 5-HT(1A) receptors of rat cerebral cortex, (+/-)-domesticine showed a 183-fold higher selectivity for alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor relative to 5-HT(1A) receptor, whereas BMY-7378 displayed a similar affinity at this receptor with respect to the alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor (0.89-fold). Both compounds, however, showed a weak affinity for 5-HT(2A)/5-HT(2C) receptors in rat frontal cortex. These results suggest that (+/-)-domesticine is more potent for alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor than for alpha(1A)- or alpha(1B)-adrenoceptor subtypes and it is highly selective compared to 5-HT(1A) and other receptors.

Preclinical pharmacology of fiduxosin, a novel alpha(1)-adrenoceptor antagonist with uroselective properties

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), common in aging males, is often treated with alpha(1)-adrenoceptor antagonists. To minimize hypotensive and other side effects, compounds with selective antagonist activity at alpha(1A)- and alpha(1D)- (compared with alpha(1B)-) adrenoceptors were evaluated that would block lower urinary tract alpha(1)-adrenoceptors in preference to cardiovascular alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors. Fiduxosin (3-[4-((3aR,9bR)-cis-9-methoxy-1,2,3,3a,4,9b-hexahydro-[1]-benzopyrano[3,4-c]pyrrol-2-yl)butyl]-8-phenyl-pyrazino[2',3':4,5] thieno-[3,2-d]pyrimidine-2,4(1H,3H)-dione; ABT-980) was tested in radioligand binding assays, isolated tissue bioassays, intraurethral pressure (IUP) tests in isoflurane-anesthetized dogs, and blood pressure analyses in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Fiduxosin had higher affinity for cloned human alpha(1a)- (0.16 nM) and alpha(1d)-adrenoceptors (0.92 nM) in radioligand binding studies compared with alpha(1b)-adrenoceptors (25 nM) or in isolated tissue bioassays [pA(2) values of 8.5-9.6 for alpha(1A)-receptors in rat vas deferens or canine prostate strips, 8.9 at alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors (rat aorta), compared with 7.1 at alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors (rat spleen)]. Furthermore, the compound antagonized putative alpha(1L)-adrenoceptors in the rabbit urethra (pA(2) value of 7.58). Fiduxosin blocked epinephrine-induced increases in canine IUP (pseudo-pA(2) value of 8.12), eliciting only transient decreases in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) in SHR. The area under the curve (AUC(0-->60) min) for the hypotensive response was dose related with a log index value for fiduxosin of 5.23, indicating a selectivity of 770-fold comparing IUP to MAP effects. Preferential antagonism of alpha(1A)- and alpha(1D)- versus alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors in vitro, blockade of putative alpha(1L)-sites in vitro, and selective effects on lower urinary tract function versus blood pressure in vivo by fiduxosin suggest the potential utility of this compound for the treatment of BPH.

Effect of fiduxosin, an antagonist selective for alpha(1A)- and alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors, on intraurethral and arterial pressure responses in conscious dogs

Fiduxosin is an alpha(1)-adrenoceptor antagonist with higher affinity for alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors and for alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors than for alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors. Our hypothesis is that such a compound with higher affinity for subtypes implicated in the control of lower urinary tract function and lower affinity for a subtype implicated in the control of arterial pressure could result in a superior clinical profile for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic obstruction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potency and selectivity of fiduxosin for effects on prostatic intraurethral pressure (IUP) versus mean arterial pressure (MAP) relative to current clinical standards, terazosin and tamsulosin, in conscious dogs. Phenylephrine (PE)-induced increases in IUP and MAP were determined before and at various time points after an oral dose of each antagonist. Hypotensive potency was also determined. All three antagonists caused dose- and time-dependent blockade of the IUP and MAP pressor effects of PE. The IUP ED(50) values of fiduxosin, tamsulosin, and terazosin were 0.24, 0.004, and 0.23 mg/kg p.o., respectively. The corresponding MAP ED(50) values were 1.79, 0.006, and 0.09 mg/kg p.o. The rank order of IUP selectivity (ratio) was fiduxosin (7.5-fold), tamsulosin (1.5-fold), and terazosin (0.4 = 2.5-fold MAP-selective). Tamsulosin and terazosin caused dose-dependent hypotension, whereas no change in arterial pressure was seen after fiduxosin. These data, illustrating a superior selectivity profile of fiduxosin, are consistent with our hypothesis.

Cardiac-directed overexpression of wild-type alpha1B-adrenergic receptor induces dilated cardiomyopathy

Using transgenesis as a paradigm, we show here that alpha1-adrenergic receptors (alpha1AR) play an important role in cardiac homeostasis. Cardiomyocyte-specific overexpression of the alpha(1B)AR subtype resulted in the development of dilated cardiomyopathy and death at ~9 mo of age with typical signs of heart failure. Histological analyses showed the enlargement of all four cardiac chambers and cardiomyocyte disarray in the failing hearts. Transgenic animals showed increased left ventricular areas, as assessed by echocardiography. In addition, a progressive decrease in left ventricular systolic function was revealed. The abundance and activity of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2) were reduced, and the ratio of phospholamban to SERCA2 was increased. alpha-Myosin heavy chain (MHC) mRNA was less abundant in older transgenic ventricles, whereas beta-MHC was induced in the failing hearts. Titin mRNA abundance was decreased at 9 mo, whereas atrial natriuretic factor mRNA was elevated at all times. This model mimics structural and functional features of idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy. The results of this study suggest that chronic alpha1AR activity is deleterious for cardiac function.

Functional characterization of alpha(1)-adrenoceptor subtypes in human skeletal muscle resistance arteries

alpha(1)-adrenoceptor subtypes in human skeletal muscle resistance arteries were characterized using agonists noradrenaline (non-selective) and A61603 (alpha(1A)-selective), the antagonists prazosin (non-selective), 5-methyl-urapidil (alpha(1A)-selective) and BMY7378 (alpha(1D)-selective) and the alkylating agent chloroethylclonidine (preferential for alpha(1B)). Small arteries were obtained from the non-ischaemic skeletal muscle of limbs amputated for critical limb ischaemia and isometric tension recorded using wire myography. Prazosin antagonized responses to noradrenaline with a pA(2) value of 9.18, consistent with the presence of alpha(1)-adrenoceptors, although the Schild slope (1.32) was significantly different from unity. 5-Methyl-urapidil competitively antagonized responses to noradrenaline with a pK(B) value of 8.48 and a Schild slope of 0.99, consistent with the presence of alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors. In the presence of 300 nM 5-methyl-urapidil, noradrenaline exhibited biphasic concentration response curves, indicating the presence of a minor population of a 5-methyl-urapidil-resistant subtype. Contractile responses to noradrenaline were not affected by 1 microM chloroethylclonidine suggesting the absence of alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors. Maximum responses to noradrenaline and A61603 were reduced to a similar extent by 10 microM chloroethylclonidine, suggesting an effect of chloroethylclonidine at alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors at the higher concentration. BMY7378 (10 and 100 nM) had no effect on responses to noradrenaline. BMY7378 (1 microM) poorly shifted the potency of noradrenaline giving a pA(2) of 6.52. These results rule out the presence of the alpha(1D)-subtype. These results show that contractile responses to noradrenaline in human skeletal muscle resistance arteries are predominantly mediated by the alpha(1A)-adrenoceptor subtype with a minor population of an unknown alpha(1)-adrenoceptor subtype.

The alpha(1A)-adrenoceptor subtype mediates contraction in rat femoral resistance arteries

In this study, alpha(1)-adrenoceptor subtypes were characterised in rat femoral resistance arteries mounted on a small vessel myograph. A-61603 was found to be more potent than noradrenaline and phenylephrine in these arteries. Brimonidine (UK 14304) could not evoke any contractile responses and the sensitivity to noradrenaline and phenylephrine was not affected by (8aR,12aS,13aS)-5,8,8a,9,10,11,12,12a,13a-decahydro-3-methoxy-12-(ethylsulphonyl)-6H-isoquino[2,1-g][1,6]-naphthyridine (RS 79948), ruling out the presence of alpha(2)-adrenoceptors. Prazosin, 5-methyl-urapidil and 2-([2,6-dimethoxyphenoxyethyl]aminomethyl)-1,4-benzodioxane (WB 4101) produced rightward shifts in the sensitivity to noradrenaline, giving pA(2) values of 9.6, 9.4 and 10.4, respectively, in agreement with the presence of alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors. (8-[2-[4-(2-Methoxyphenyl)-1-piperazinyl]ethyl]-8-azaspiro[4.5]decane-7,9-dione (BMY 7378; 1 microM) produced a small shift in the sensitivity of noradrenaline giving a pK(B) of 7.2. In the presence of 300 nM 5-methyl-urapidil, sensitivity to noradrenaline was not further shifted by 1 microM BMY 7378. Responses to noradrenaline were unaffected by the alpha(1B)-adrenoceptor alkylating agent chloroethylclonidine (1 microM). These results suggest alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors mediate contractile responses to noradrenaline in rat femoral resistance arteries.

Structure-activity studies for a novel series of bicyclic substituted hexahydrobenz[e]isoindole alpha1A adrenoceptor antagonists as potential agents for the symptomatic treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

In search of a uroselective alpha1A subtype selective antagonist, a novel series of 6-OMe hexahydrobenz[e]isoindoles attached to a bicyclic heterocyclic moiety via a two-carbon linker was synthesized. It was found that in contrast to the previously described series of tricyclic heterocycles,(1) this bicyclic series has very specific requirements for the heterocyclic attachments. The most important structural features contributing to the alpha1A/alpha1B selectivity of these compounds were identified. In vitro functional assays for the alpha1 adrenoceptor subtypes were used to further characterize the most selective compounds, and in vivo models of vascular vs prostatic tone were used to assess uroselectivity. Compound 48 showed the highest degree of selectivity in the radioligand binding assays (56-fold), in the in vitro functional tests (80-fold), and for in vivo prostate selectivity (960-fold).

Two Novel and Potent 3-[(o-Methoxyphenyl)piperazinylethyl]-5-phenylthieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine-2,4-diones Selective for the α1D Receptor

The synthesis and in vitro characterization of A-119637 and A-123189, two novel, selective and potent alpha1D antagonists, are described.

Pharmacological evidence for the role of central alpha 1B-adrenoceptors in the motor activity and spontaneous movement of mice

Central alpha 1-noradrenergic neurotransmission has been shown to be an important complement of dopaminergic transmission in the control of motor activity but the identity of the responsible alpha 1 receptor subtype has not yet been identified. This was investigated in the present experiment by measuring the effects of intraventricular administration of a series of alpha 1 antagonists varying in affinities for the three known receptor subtypes--1a, 1b and 1d--on active behavior in mice in response to a cage change. It was found that the potency of the drugs to block both gross and small movements correlated highly with published affinities for the cloned 1b receptor but not for those of either the cloned 1a or 1d receptors. It is concluded that central alpha 1B receptors are critically involved in the mediation of the (nor)adrenergic influence on active behavior, a finding which has implications for basic and clinical research in both movement and mood disorders.

Failure of AH11110A to functionally discriminate between alpha(1)-adrenoceptor subtypes A, B and D or between alpha(1)- and alpha(2)-adrenoceptors

The potency of the putatively alpha(1B)-adrenoceptor selective drug, 1-[biphenyl-2-yloxy]-4-imino-4-piperidin-1-yl-butan-2-ol (AH11110A), to antagonize contraction upon stimulation of alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors in rat vas deferens and rat perfused kidney, alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors in guinea-pig spleen, mouse spleen and rabbit aorta, and alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors in rat aorta and pulmonary artery was evaluated and compared to that of a number of subtype-discriminating antagonists. N-[3-[4-(2-Methoxyphenyl)-1-piperazinyl]propyl]-3-methyl-4-oxo-2-phenyl-4H-1-benzopyran-8-carboxamide (Rec 15/2739) and (+/-)-1,3,5-trimethyl-6-[[3-[4-((2,3-dihydro-2-hydroxymethyl)-1,4-benzodioxin-5-yl)-1-piperazinyl]propyl]amino]-2,4(1H,3H)-pyrimidinedione (B8805-033) were confirmed as selective for alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors, 8-[2-[4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-piperazinyl]ethyl]-8-azaspiro[4.5]decane-7,9-dione (BMY 7378), 8-[2-(1,4-benzodioxan-2-ylmethylamino)ethyl]-8-azaspiro[4.5]decane-7,9-dione (MDL 73005EF), and cystazosin were found to be selective for alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors, whereas spiperone was weakly selective for alpha(1B)-over alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors. However, from the functional affinity profile obtained for AH11110A at alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors (pA(2)=6.41 in rat vas deferens), alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors (pA(2)=5.40-6.54) and alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors (pA(2)=5.47-5.48), the affinity and presumed selectivity previously obtained for AH11110A in radioligand binding studies at native alpha(1B)- and cloned alpha(1b)-adrenoceptors (pK(i)=7.10-7.73) could not be confirmed. Additionally, AH11110A enhanced the general contractility of rat vas deferens, produced a bell-shaped dose-response curve of vasodilation in perfused rat kidney, and its antagonism in most other tissues was not simply competitive. The affinity of AH11110A for prejunctional alpha(2)-adrenoceptors in rabbit vas deferens (pA(2)=5.44) was not much lower than that displayed for alpha(1)-adrenoceptor subtypes, revealing that AH11110A, besides alpha(1)-adrenoceptors, also interacts with alpha(2)-adrenoceptors, and thus may be unsuitable for alpha-adrenoceptor subtype characterization, at least in smooth muscle containing functional studies.

Structure-activity studies for a novel series of tricyclic substituted hexahydrobenz[e]isoindole alpha(1A) adrenoceptor antagonists as potential agents for the symptomatic treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

In search of a uroselective agent that exhibits a high level of selectivity for the alpha(1A) receptor, a novel series of tricyclic hexahydrobenz[e]isoindoles was synthesized. A generic pharmacophoric model was developed requiring the presence of a basic amine core and a fused heterocyclic side chain separated by an alkyl chain. It was shown that the 6-OMe substitution with R, R stereochemistry of the ring junction of the benz[e]isoindole and a two-carbon spacer chain were optimal. In contrast to the highly specific requirements for the benz[e]isoindole portion and linker chain, a wide variety of tricyclic fused heterocyclic attachments were tolerated with retention of potency and selectivity. In vitro functional assays for the alpha(1) adrenoceptor subtypes were used to further characterize these compounds, and in vivo models of vascular vs prostatic tone were used to assess uroselectivity.

Differential response to chloroethylclonidine in blood vessels of normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats: role of alpha 1D- and alpha 1A-adrenoceptors in contraction

The effects of chloroethylclonidine on alpha(1)-adrenoceptor-mediated contraction in endothelium-denuded caudal arteries and aorta from normotensive Wistar and Wistar Kyoto (WKY), and from spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) rats were evaluated. Chloroethylclonidine elicited concentration-dependent contractions. Maximal contraction was similar in caudal arteries among strains ( approximately 40% of noradrenaline effect). However, chloroethylclonidine elicited a higher contraction in aorta from SHR than from normotensive rats. In Wistar aorta chloroethylclonidine produced the smallest contractile response. In SHR aorta, BMY 7378 and 5-methylurapidil blocked chloroethylclonidine-elicited contraction, while (+)-cyclazocine did not inhibit it; while in caudal arteries, 5-methylurapidil blocked chloroethylclonidine action; the other antagonists had no effect. In chloroethylclonidine-treated aorta noradrenaline elicited biphasic contraction-response curves, indicating a high affinity (pD(2), 8.5 - 7.5) chloroethylclonidine-sensitive component and a low affinity (pD(2), 6.3 - 5.2) chloroethylclonidine-insensitive component. The high affinity component was blocked by chloroethylclonidine; while in caudal arteries noradrenaline elicited monophasic contraction-response curves with pD(2) values (6.5 - 5.7) similar to the low affinity component in aorta. Chloroethylclonidine inhibition of noradrenaline response was greater in aorta than in caudal arteries. Chloroethylclonidine increased the EC(50) values of noradrenaline approximately 1000 fold in aorta and approximately 10 fold in caudal arteries. In SHR aorta BMY 7378 protected alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors and in caudal arteries 5-methylurapidil protected alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors from chloroethylclonidine alkylation, allowing noradrenaline to elicit contraction. These results show marked strain-dependent differences in the ability of chloroethylclonidine to contract aorta; moreover, chloroethylclonidine stimulates alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors in aorta and alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors in caudal arteries. The higher contraction observed in aorta from SHR and WKY suggests an augmented number of alpha(1D)-adrenoceptors in these strains.

Alpha1-adrenoceptor subtypes

Alpha1-adrenoceptors are one of three subfamilies of receptors (alpha1, alpha2, beta) mediating responses to adrenaline and noradrenaline. Three alpha1-adrenoceptor subtypes are known (alpha1A, alpha1B, alpha1D) which are all members of the G protein coupled receptor family, and splice variants have been reported in the C-terminus of the alpha1A. They are expressed in many tissues, particularly smooth muscle where they mediate contraction. Certain subtype-selective agonists and antagonists are now available, and alpha1A-adrenoceptor selective antagonists are used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy. All subtypes activate phospholipase C through the G(q/11) family of G proteins, release stored Ca2+, and activate protein kinase C, although with significant differences in coupling efficiency (alpha1A > alpha1B > alpha1D). Other second messenger pathways are also activated by these receptors, including Ca2+ influx, arachidonic acid release, and phospholipase D. Alpha1-adrenoceptors also activate mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways in many cells, and some of these responses are independent of Ca2+ and protein kinase C but involve small G proteins and tyrosine kinases. Direct interactions of alpha1-adrenoceptors with proteins other than G proteins have not yet been reported, however there is a consensus binding motif for the immediate early gene Homer in the C-terminal tail of the alpha1D subtype. Current research is focused on discovering new subtype-selective drugs, identifying non-traditional signaling pathways activated by these receptors, clarifying how multiple signals are integrated, and identifying proteins interacting directly with the receptors to influence their functions.

Alpha1- and alpha2-adrenoceptor control of sodium transport reverses in developing hypertension

Alpha-Adrenergic receptor (AR) activation enhances sodium retention in certain forms of hypertension. The objective of the present study was to understand the role of alpha-ARs in regulating sodium transport by distal tubules (DT). DT cells were isolated from kidneys of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats at 6 weeks, when hypertension is developing, or at 12 weeks, when hypertension is established. The alpha1-AR agonist phenylephrine increased 22Na uptake by 50% into DT cells of 6-week SHR; no effect was observed with WKY cells. The alpha2-AR agonist B-HT 933 increased uptake by only 10%. At 12 weeks, the pattern of alpha-AR regulation was reversed: alpha1-AR-induced sodium uptake was only 15%, whereas alpha2-AR activation increased sodium uptake by 35% in SHR and WKY cells. alpha1-AR-induced sodium uptake in 6-week SHR cells was abolished by prazosin; alpha2-AR-stimulated sodium uptake was blocked by yohimbine in 12-week SHR and WKY. Competitive binding studies were performed with [3H]prazosin and alpha1A-, alpha1B-, and alpha1D-selective antagonists with DT cell membranes from 6- and 12-week SHR and WKY. alpha2-AR subtypes were determined with [3H]rauwolscine and alpha2A- and alpha2B-selective antagonists. Expression of alpha1B-ARs was increased 4-fold in DT cells during the developing phase of hypertension in SHR. No change was detected in alpha2-AR expression. DT cells transiently increase [Ca2+]i in response to alpha1-AR agonists from 6-week but not 12-week SHR. Conversely, alpha2-AR agonists increase [Ca2+]i at 12 weeks. In summary, during developing hypertension, alpha1-ARs increase sodium uptake and [Ca2+]i in SHR cells. Expression of alpha1B-ARs is selectively upregulated during developing hypertension. In established hypertension (and normotension), alpha2-ARs regulate sodium transport and [Ca2+]i in DT cells. We conclude that a molecular switch of alpha1-AR and alpha2-AR signaling occurs in DT cells during the development of hypertension.