Toxicology and Analysis of Psychoactive Tryptamines

Our understanding of tryptamines is poor due to the lack of data globally. Tryptamines currently are not part of typical toxicology testing regimens and their contribution to drug overdoses may be underestimated. Although their prevalence was low, it is increasing. There are few published data on the many new compounds, their mechanisms of action, onset and duration of action, toxicity, signs and symptoms of intoxication and analytical methods to identify tryptamines and their metabolites. We review the published literature and worldwide databases to describe the newest tryptamines, their toxicology, chemical structures and reported overdose cases. Tryptamines are 5-HT2A receptor agonists that produce altered perceptions of reality. Currently, the most prevalent tryptamines are 5-methoxy-N,N-diisopropyltryptamine (5-MeO-DiPT), 5-methoxy-N,N- diallyltryptamine (5-MeO-DALT) and dimethyltryptamine (DMT). From 2015 to 2020, 22 new analytical methods were developed to identify/quantify tryptamines and metabolites in biological samples, primarily by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. The morbidity accompanying tryptamine intake is considerable and it is critical for clinicians and laboratorians to be informed of the latest data on this public health threat.

The Evolving Landscape of Designer Drugs

Since 2008 there has been an onslaught of new drugs in the illicit marketplace. Often referred to as "research chemicals," "designer drugs," or "novel psychoactive substances" (NPS), these substances are used for their pharmacological effects which are often similar to more widely known drugs such as ecstasy or heroin. In some cases users specifically seek out these new chemicals, in other cases they are simply purchasing what they believe to be their normal drug of choice from a dealer, but the product is not what it is purported to be. Implementation of national and international systems to monitor the appearance of new compounds enables laboratories to be prepared with validated tests to detect them in biological specimens. The most common classes of NPS are synthetic cannabinoids, novel opioids, novel benzodiazepines, stimulants, and hallucinogens. Within these groups the compounds may be drugs that were originally synthesized for research purposes during the pursuit of new therapeutic agents such as the synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018 and the designer opioid U47700. Others like etizolam are compounds used in other countries but not commonly seen in the USA. Some are drugs synthesized specifically to circumvent legal controls. In all cases, these compounds present a unique challenge to forensic toxicology laboratories which must quickly develop and validate analytical methods for the identification and quantification in biological matrices.This chapter is a condensed and updated version of an article originally published in Clinical and Forensic Toxicology News.

The DARK Side of Total Synthesis: Strategies and Tactics in Psychoactive Drug Production

Humankind has used and abused psychoactive drugs for millennia. Formally, a psychoactive drug is any agent that alters cognition and mood. The term "psychotropic drug" is neutral and describes the entire class of substrates, licit and illicit, of interest to governmental drug policy. While these drugs are prescribed for issues ranging from pain management to anxiety, they are also used recreationally. In fact, the current opioid epidemic is the deadliest drug crisis in American history. While the topic is highly politicized with racial, gender, and socioeconomic elements, there is no denying the toll drug mis- and overuse is taking on this country. Overdose, fueled by opioids, is the leading cause of death for Americans under 50 years of age, killing ca. 64,000 people in 2016. From a chemistry standpoint, the question is in what ways, if any, did organic chemists contribute to this problem? In this targeted review, we provide brief historical accounts of the main classes of psychoactive drugs and discuss several foundational total syntheses that ultimately provide the groundwork for producing these molecules in academic, industrial, and clandestine settings.

Synthetic cathinones: a new public health problem

New psychoactive substances (NPS) have completely modified the drug scene and the current landscape of addiction. Synthetic substances, such as substituted or synthetic cathinones, also known as « legal highs », are often produced and used to mimic the effects of controlled drugs such as cocaine, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy), and methamphetamine. The overwhelming majority of synthetic cathinones are produced in China and South East Asian countries. The Internet has emerged as the new marketplace for NPS, playing a major role in providing information on acquisition, synthesis, extraction, identification, and substance use. All these compounds are intentionally mislabeled and sold on-line under slang terms such as bath salts, plant food, plant feeders and research chemicals. They are sometimes labeled « not for human use » or « not tested for hazards or toxicity ». The rapid spread of NPS forces member countries of the European Union to adapt their response to the potential new dangers that may cause. To date, not only health actors but also the general public need to be clearly informed and aware of dangers resulting from NPS spread and use. Here, we review the major clinical effects of synthetic cathinones to highlight their impact on public health. A literature search was conducted from 2009 to 2014 based on PubMed, Google Scholar, Erowid, and governmental websites, using the following keywords alone or in combination: "new psychoactive substances", "synthetic cathinones", "substituted cathinones", "mephedrone", "methylone", "MDPV", "4-MEC", "addiction", and "substance use disorder".

Psychosis from a bath salt product containing flephedrone and MDPV with serum, urine, and product quantification

INTRODUCTION

The use of designer drugs commonly marketed as bath salts or plant food has risen dramatically in recent years. Several different synthetic cathinones have been indentified in these products, including mephedrone, 3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), and 4-fluoromethcathinone (flephedrone). We report a case of bath salt intoxication with quantitative MDPV and flephedrone levels in a patient's serum and urine, and from the bath salt product.

CASE REPORT

A 23-year-old male with a prior psychiatric history arrived via EMS for bizarre behavior, suicidality, and hallucinations after reportedly insufflating a bath salt. He was found to have MDPV levels of 186 and 136 ng/mL in his serum and urine, respectively, and flephedrone levels of 346 and 257 ng/mL in the serum and urine, respectively. The white powder in question was found to contain 143 μg MDPV and 142 μg flephedrone per milligram powder. His psychosis and agitation resolved with lorazepam, droperidol, and observation in the emergency department.

DISCUSSION

Agitation, psychosis, movement disorders, tachycardia, and hypertension have all been attributed to the use of MDPV; there are no prior reports detailing clinical experience with flephedrone. Considering that our patient's serum flephedrone levels were twofold higher than his MDPV level, it is likely flephedrone contributed to his clinical toxicity. This case suggests the possibility that fluorinated cathinones, such as flephedrone, may have altered metabolism and/or elimination which may affect their course of clinical toxicity. This case highlights the evolving composition of synthetic cathinones found in bath salt products.

[Beta-cathinone derivatives--a new generation of dangerous psychostimulant "designer drugs"]

Synthetic beta-cathinone derivatives belong to the novel group of psychostimulant "designer drugs". They show significant structural similarity to catecholamines and exogenous central nervous system (CNS) stimulating agents such as amphetamine, methamphetamine, ephedrine, 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy), and act as dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Popular synthetic beta-cathinones include e.g. mephedrone (4-methylmethcathinone, 4-MMC), naphyrone (naphthylpyrovalerone) and MDPV (3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone). Ingestion of synthetic cathinones produces effects of CNS stimulation, often comparable to those evoked by cocaine, amphetamine and MDMA. Chronic abuse of beta-cathinone derivatives leads to the development of tolerance, psychic and physical dependence. This paper discusses pharmacological properties of the most commonly used beta-cathinone derivatives as well as risks associated with their abuse. Special emphasis is given to neurological, psychiatric, cardiovascular and hematologic disturbances. Authors also present cases of fatalities caused by acute beta-cathinone intoxication or resulting from the drug-related accidents and crimes.

Sigma receptors and cocaine abuse

Sigma receptors have been well documented as a protein target for cocaine and have been shown to be involved in the toxic and stimulant actions of cocaine. Strategies to reduce the access of cocaine to sigma receptors have included antisense oligonucleotides to the sigma-1 receptor protein as well as small molecule ligand with affinity for sigma receptor sites. These results have been encouraging as novel protein targets that can attenuate the actions of cocaine are desperately needed as there are currently no medications approved for treatment of cocaine toxicity or addiction. Many years of research in this area have yet to produce an effective treatment and much focus was on dopamine systems. A flurry of research has been carried out to elucidate the role of sigma receptors in the blockade of cocaine effects but this research has yet to yield a clinical agent. This review summarizes the work to date on the linkage of sigma receptors and the actions of cocaine and the progress that has been made with regard to small molecules. Although there is still a lack of an agent in clinical trials with a sigma receptor mechanism of action, work is progressing and the ligands are becoming more selective for sigma systems and the potential remains high.

The nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor (NOP) as a target for drug abuse medications

Several studies show that the nociceptin receptor NOP plays a role in the regulation of reward and motivation pathways related to substance abuse. Administration of the NOP's natural peptide ligand, Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) or synthetic agonist Ro 64-6198 has been shown to block rewarding effects of cocaine, morphine, amphetamines and alcohol, in various behavioral models of drug reward and reinforcement, such as conditioned place preference and drug self-administration. Administration of N/OFQ has been shown to reduce drug-stimulated levels of dopamine in mesolimbic pathways. The NOP-N/OFQ system has been particularly well examined in the development of alcohol abuse in animal models. Furthermore, the efficacy of the mixed-action opioid buprenorphine, in attenuating alcohol consumption in human addicts and in alcohol-preferring animal models, at higher doses, has been attributed to its partial agonist activity at the NOP receptor. These studies suggest that NOP receptor agonists may have potential as drug abuse medications. However, the pathophysiology of addiction is complex and drug addiction pharmacotherapy needs to address the various phases of substance addiction (craving, withdrawal, relapse). Further studies are needed to clearly establish how NOP agonists may attenuate the drug addiction process and provide therapeutic benefit. Addiction to multiple abused drugs (polydrug addiction) is now commonplace and presents a treatment challenge, given the limited pharmacotherapies currently approved. Polydrug addiction may not be adequately treated by a single agent with a single mechanism of action. As with the case of buprenorphine, a mixed-action profile of NOP/opioid activity may provide a more effective drug to treat addiction to various abused substances and/or polydrug addiction.

The future of acute care and prevention in headache

Migraine is a chronic neurological disease with heterogeneous characteristics resulting in a range of symptom profiles, burden and disability. It affects nearly 12% of the adult population in Western countries and up to 22% of the Brazilian population, imposing considerable suffering as well as personal, economic and social losses. The pharmacological treatment of migraine is divided into preventive and acute treatment. A better comprehension of migraine pathophysiology, as well as the finding of novel molecular targets, has led to a growing number of upcoming therapeutic opportunities. The same is true of cluster headache, which affects only about 0.07%-0.4% of most populations. This review focuses on current and emerging agents and procedures for the treatment of migraine and cluster headache.

trans-2,3-dihydroxy-6a,7,8,12b-tetrahydro-6H-chromeno[3,4-c]isoquinoline: synthesis, resolution, and preliminary pharmacological characterization of a new dopamine D1 receptor full agonist

We report the synthesis of trans-2,3-dihydroxy-6a,7,8,12b-tetrahydro-6H-chromeno[3,4-c]isoquinoline hydrochloride 6 and the resolution of its enantiomers. This new compound is an oxygen bioisostere of the potent dopamine D1-selective full agonist dihydrexidine. The initial synthetic approach involved, as a key step, a Suzuki coupling between a chromene triflate and a boronate ester, followed by isoquinoline formation and reduction of the resulting isoquinoline. Subsequently, a more efficient route was developed that involved conjugate addition of an aryl Grignard reagent to a 2-nitrochromene. The title compound possessed high affinity (Ki=20-30 nM) for porcine D1-like receptors in native striatal tissue and full intrinsic activity at cloned human dopamine D1 receptors but had much lower affinity at dopamine D2-like receptors (Ki=3000 nM). The binding and functional properties of this compound illustrate again the utility of constructing dopamine D1 agonist ligands around the beta-phenyldopamine pharmacophore template.

Synthesis of amino derivatives of 10-(diphenylmethylene)-4-azatricyclo[5.2.1.0(2,6)]dec-8-ene-3,5-dione as potential psychotropic and/or anti HIV agents

A series of amino derivatives of 10-(diphenylmethylene)-4-azatricyclo[5.2.1.0(2.6)]dec-8-ene-3,5-dione, analogues of chlorpromazine and aminoperazine have been prepared. These compounds are expected to have antipsychotic and/or anti HIV activity. Molecular structure of III was confirmed by an X-ray structure analysis. The cytotoxicity and anti HIV activity of derivatives I-IV were determined.

Structural modifications of the cannabinoid side chain towards C3-aryl and 1',1'-cycloalkyl-1'-cyano cannabinoids

The compounds reported in this study are Delta(8)-THC analogues in which the C3 five-carbon linear side chain of Delta(8)-THC was replaced with aryl and 1',1'-cycloalkyl substituents. Of the compounds described here analogues 2d (CB(1), K(i)=11.7 nM. CB(2), K(i)=9.39 nM) and 2f (CB(1), K(i)=8.26 nM. CB(2), K(i)=3.86 nM) exhibited enhanced binding affinities for CB(1) and CB(2), exceeding that of Delta(8)-THC. Efficient procedures for the synthesis of these novel cannabinoid analogues are described.

A pathophysiological paradigm for the therapy of psychiatric disease

Despite enormous progress in fundamental knowledge in neuroscience, no revolutionary therapies in psychiatry (and neurology) have emerged in the past ten years. Most drugs alleviate symptoms, rather than restoring the 'set point' of brain function from a pathological position to a more normal one. We propose a hypothesis-driven, systems-level approach to drug discovery and development that is based on pathophysiology and which uses new animal models.

Discovery of new tetracyclic tetrahydrofuran derivatives as potential broad-spectrum psychotropic agents

A series of novel tetracyclic tetrahydrofuran derivatives was prepared and evaluated for its potential psychotropic properties. In vitro affinities for multiple dopaminergic, serotonergic, alpha-adrenergic, and histamine receptors and for the norepinephrine transporter as well as the ED(50) values obtained in some in vivo assays for antipsychotic, anxiolytic, and antidepressant potential are reported. Compounds (-)-1, (-)-8d, and (+)-8d have been identified as potential broad-spectrum psychotropic agents.

Analytical chemistry of synthetic routes to psychoactive tryptamines : Part II. Characterisation of the Speeter and Anthony synthetic route to N,N-dialkylated tryptamines using GC-EI-ITMS, ESI-TQ-MS-MS and NMR

The degree of alkylation of the side chain nitrogen in tryptamines is one important factor that affects psychoactivity. The method of Speeter and Anthony is considered to be one of the most important synthetic preparative methods. The final step in this reaction is based on the reduction of a (substituted) indole-3-yl-glyoxalylamide to the desired tryptamine with metal hydride. Twelve symmetrically and 13 asymmetrically N,N-disubstituted glyoxalylamides and their corresponding tryptamine derivatives have been synthesised and characterised by gas chromatography EI-ion trap mass spectrometry, electrospray-triple quadrupole-tandem mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy. Mass spectral and NMR similarities and differences between the investigated compounds are discussed. A solvent dependency is observed that has to be taken into consideration for the unambiguous assignment of (1)H- and (13)C-NMR chemical shifts. The (1)H-NMR study demonstrated that one can evaluate the rotamer populations of the asymmetrical glyoxalylamides. In a forensic or clinical scenario where single or multiple reaction monitoring approaches are contemplated, the appropriate ion transitions of choice may then focus on the two main fragmentations, namely beta-cleavage ([M+H](+)-->CH(2)N(+)R(2)R(3)) and/or alpha-cleavage ([M+H](+)-->[3-vinylindole](+)), respectively. The synthesis, NMR and MS analytical data presented provide the forensic analyst and clinical biochemist with a detailed and self-consistent body of information and mechanisms for the spectral identification of the more likely psychoactive tryptamines that may be met.

Analytical chemistry of synthetic routes to psychoactive tryptamines : Part I. Characterisation of the Speeter and Anthony synthetic route to 5-methoxy-N,N-diisopropyltryptamine using ESI-MS-MS and ESI-TOF-MS

5-Methoxy-N,N-diisopropyltryptamine (5-MeO-DIPT), a new psychoactive tryptamine derivative, has been synthesised by the Speeter and Anthony procedure. This synthetic route was characterised by ESI-MS-MS, ESI-TOF-MS and NMR. Side products have been identified as 3-(2-N,N-diisopropylamino-ethyl)-1H-indol-5-ol (5), 2-N,N-diisopropylamino-1-(5-methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)-ethanol (6), 2-(5-methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)-ethanol (7) and 2-N,N-diisopropylamino-1-(5-methoxy-1H-indol-3-yl)-ethanone (8).

Search for substances with antioxidant and antiamnestic activities among 2-substituted 4-(3H)-quinazolones

We have synthesised some of 2-substituted 4-(3H)-quinazolones by the reaction with benzaldehyde and cinnamic aldehyde and their derivatives. It is shown that the intensity of the reaction depends on electrophilic properties of carbonyl compounds and steric factors. The elemental analysis, ultraviolet (UV), infrared (IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy confirmed the structure of synthesised compounds, their individuality being checked by thin-layer chromatography. The results of biological experiments show that the synthesised 2-substituted 4-(3H)-quinazolones have an expressed antioxidant and antiamnestic activity and are prospective for further research of their nootropic activity.

[Synthesis and pharmacological study of three 1-alkyl-3-(ethoxycarbonylmethylene)-2-oxo quinoxalines]

The acute toxicity study and the psychotropic activity of three alkylated derivatives of 3-(ethoxycarbonylmethylene) -2-oxo quinoxaline did not demonstrate any toxicity of these products at therapeutic dosages. In the animal, these compounds have sedative, myorelaxant and anxiolytic properities.

Arylethylamine psychotropic recreational drugs: a chemical perspective

The arylethylamines substituted in the aryl ring, side-chain carbons and on the terminal amine, comprise a large number of human mood and behaviour altering chemicals. Some of these psychotropic drugs have been used since pre-history, but in many states are proscribed and are consequently subject to clandestine synthesis and illegal traffic world-wide in the forms particularly of amphetamines and to a lesser extent tryptamines. The chemistry employed in the synthesis of these compounds is dictated often by the available precursors and relies usually on relatively simple, unsophisticated conversion reactions to a suitable product. The internet web sites and documentation of the recreational drug culture have been studied alongside the professional scientific and regulatory literature. The review demonstrates the great complexity of the chemistry and neuro-pharmacology of these chemicals and the challenge faced by legislative bodies to control their traffic and use for the sake of social welfare.

Genetics and genomics in neuropsychopharmacology: the impact on drug discovery and development

Genomics, the complete tabulation of all the genes in an organism, has made a major impact on the organisation of fully-integrated pharmaceutical companies. Drug discovery begins with bioinformatic elucidation of a human sequence encoding a potential drug target, followed by cloning and expression of the gene in a format for high throughput screening. Target validation is aided by reference to homologous genes in subhuman species as well as production of transgenic animals. In contrast, the impact of genetics on neuropsychopharmacology has been modest. It is interesting to compare the experience of genetics in the two major clinical disciplines dealing with disorders of the nervous system. Neurology has been at the forefront of human genetics with over 600 disorders mapped, of which causative mutations have been assigned to about 200 Mendelian disorders, each individually rare. Psychiatric genetics has been based on two log fewer diagnoses use of which has only yielded complex segregation patterns, a plethora of weak associations and no gene assignments. In neither case has genetics resulted in the development of a novel therapeutic agent. However, by refinements in diagnosis and genetic technology the promise for the future is great, not only for drug discovery, but also for subsequent preclinical and clinical development.

[Synthesis and pharmacological study of 7-phenyl-1,4-diazepin-5-one and its derivatives]

We studied the synthesis and psychotropic activity of the 7-phenyl-1,4-diazepin-5-one and derivatives. It can be conclude that these products have sedative, myorelaxant and anxiolytic actions. The toxicity study demonstrated that two diazepines are non-toxic at therapeutic dosages but that a third compound is very toxic.

New drug discovery in the postgenomic era: from genomics to proteomics

We have entered an exciting new era in which the nearly completed mapping of the human genome is now leading to the ability to characterize the human proteome, thereby expanding the horizon for new drug development by 3 orders of magnitude. Figuring out which proteins are involved in which disorders and in which individuals with any given disorder holds the promise of highly individualized therapeutics in the not so distant future.

BP-897 Bioprojet

BP-897 is a dopamine D3 receptor agonist which is under development by Bioprojet for the potential treatment of drug craving and vulnerability to relapse that are elicited by drug-associated environmental stimuli; it is undergoing phase I trials [318397,334036,340721]. Preclinical investigations were carried out by Cambridge University and INSERM [295680]. BP-897 functions as a partial agonist in vitro and as either an agonist or an antagonist in vivo. It inhibits cocaine-seeking behavior that depends upon the presentation of drug-associated cues, without having any intrinsic, primary rewarding effects [334036]. In preclinical studies, BP-897 administration before testing reduced cocaine-seeking behavior in rats in a dose-dependent manner [304557,307758,334036]. In D3 receptor knockout mice, BP-897 has no effect [345710]. It does not reduce self-administration of cocaine in monkeys [318397].

[Synthesis and pharmacologic study of 1,5-dialkyl-1,5-benzodiazepine-2,4-dithiones]

The synthesis and psychotropic activity of 1,5-diakyl-1,5-benzodiazepine-2,4-dithiones (alkyl = methyl, ethyl and benzyl radicals) were studied. Alkylation reactions were performed in catalytic conditions by phase transfer. These reactions allowed us to isolate only one kind of product N-alkyl. Acute toxicity studies were conducted according to European protocols in two species of appropriate mammals in order to discover the lethal doses. The activity of the compounds on the CNS was then studied, using a battery of compartmental tests used in psychopharmacology. No toxicity was demonstrated at therapeutic doses. Each product had a sedative effect more or less pronounced and different from the reference substance clobazam (Urbanyl). They also had myorelaxant and anxiolytic effects, even lengthening the hypnotic effect of thiopental (synergic action).

Manipulation of the tetrahydrocannabinol side chain delineates agonists, partial agonists, and antagonists

Structure-activity relation studies have established that the alkyl side chain in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) plays a crucial role in the activation of the cannabinoid receptor. Unfortunately, the flexible nature of this side chain has hampered efforts to elucidate the precise nature of the interaction of THC with its receptors. Therefore, a series of analogs with structurally restrained side chains of varying length was synthesized and evaluated for pharmacological potency in mice and for receptor affinity. The introduction of cis double bonds inserted rigid angles, whereas triple bonds developed regions of planarity. Receptor affinity for the acetylenic and saturated side chains were the same, whereas double bond substitution increased affinity 10-fold. Moreover, the relationship between receptor affinity and potency was 10-fold less than that of Delta(8)-THC in the case of some acetylenic derivatives, whereas changing the triple bond to a double bond restored the potency/affinity ratio. Additionally, an acetylene at C2-C3 in the octyl and nonyl side chains favored antinociception by as much as 70-fold. Surprisingly, several high-affinity acetylenic derivatives, especially those with cyano substitutions at the terminus of the side chain, were partial agonists or were inactive. Some of these low-efficacy, high-affinity ligands elicited antagonistic activity. The finding that manipulations of the side chain produces high- affinity ligands with either antagonist, partial agonist, or full agonist effects reveals a critical structural feature for receptor activation.

New generation dopaminergic agents. 5. Heterocyclic bioisosteres that exploit the 3-OH-N1-phenylpiperazine dopaminergic template

The synthesis of several bioisosteric analogs based on the 3-OH-N1-phenylpiperazine dopamine D2 agonist template (i.e., 4) is described. The indolone (5) and 2-CF3-benzimidazole (13) were observed to have excellent affinity for the D2 receptor. Several D4 selective compounds were also identified. Molecular modeling studies and a putative bioactive conformation are discussed.

Synthesis of new derivatives of 4-methyl-5-ethoxalyl-1H-2,3,4,5- tetrahydro-1,5-benzodiazepin-2-one and their psychotropic and anti-proliferative activities

5-Ethoxalyl-4-methyl-1H-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1,5-benzodiazepin -2-one [I] was treated with some selected secondary amines (dimethyl-, diethyl-, dipropyl-, disobutylamine or with morpholine) and methyl-hydrazine. Amides II-IV and hydrazide VII were obtained. Compounds II, IV and VI were tested for their psychotropic activity; they showed a weak toxicity. Compounds II and VI showed an anxiolytic activity. Compounds I, II, IV, VI and VII were screened for their cytotoxic (anti-proliferative) activity in vitro by using different human cancer cell lines. None of them revealed any inhibiting effect against the tumor lines used.

[New, previously unavailable on the illegal drug market amphetamine derivatives with a partial propiophenone structure]

Two new clandestine synthesized derivatives of amphetamine were seized in the FRG. They show a propiophenone-structure. A well known representative of this class of compounds is 2-Diethylaminopropiohenone. The compounds are not submissed under the German law. NMR, IR- and MS-datas of these compounds and additionally synthesized derivatives are reported.

Synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of N-aryl(pyrimidinyl) piperazinylalkyl (hydroxyalkyl) derivatives of 1,2,3,4-tetra- and 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexahydropyrido[3,4-d]pyridazines

The synthesis of N-aryl(pyrimidinyl)piperazinylalkyl(hydroxyalkyl) derivatives of 1,4-dioxo(1,4,5-trioxo)-1,2,3,4-tetra (and 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexa)hydropyrido[3,4-d]pyridazines is described. Some of them show biological activity in the preliminary pharmacological tests.

[Synthesis of estimated metabolites of 9-amino-2,3,5,6,7,8-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[b]quinoline monohydrochloride monohydrate (NIK-247). II. Synthesis of dihydroxylated metabolites]

The two dihydroxylated metabolites of 9-amino-2,3,5,6,7,8-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[b]quinoline monohydrochloride monohydrate (NIK-247), which is a new drug for the treatment of dementia, were synthesized to determine their chemical structures. Reduction of the tricyclic diketone, 9-amino-2,3,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-cyclopenta[b]quinoline-1,8(5H)-dione, with equivalent molar of NaBH4, afforded the racemic two alcohols, (+/-)-9-amino-2,3,5,6,7,8-hexahydro-8-hydroxy-1H-cyclopenta[b]quinoli n-1-on e and (+/-)-9-amino-2,3,5,6,7,8-hexahydro-1-hydroxy-1H-cyclopenta[b]quinoli n-8- one. (+)-9-Amino-2,3,5,6,7,8-hexahydro-8-hydroxy-1H-cyclopenta[b]quinolin+ ++-1-one was obtained by optical resolution of the corresponding racemic hydroxyketone using (-)-di-p-toluoyl-L-tartaric acid. The optically active dihydroxylated metabolites were obtained by reduction of the (+)-8-hydroxy-1-one with NaBH4.

[Synthesis of estimated metabolites of 9-amino-2,3,5,6,7,8-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[b]quinoline monohydrochloride monohydrate (NIK-247). I. Synthesis of mono-hydroxylated metabolites]

The two mono-hydroxylated metabolites of 9-amino-2,3,5,6,7,8-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[b]quinoline monohydrochloride monohydrate (NIK-247), which is a new drug for the treatment of dementia, were synthesized to determine their chemical structures. Reduction of two tricyclic ketones, 9-amino-1,2,3,5,6,7-hexahydro-8H-cyclopenta[b]quinolin-8-one and 9-amino-2,3,5,6,7,8-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[b]-quinolin-1-one, with NaBH4 afforded the corresponding racemic alcohols. The optically active mono-hydroxylated metabolites, (+)-9-amino-2,3,5,6,7,8-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[b]quinolin-8-ol and (+)-9-amino-2,3,5,6,7,8-hexahydro-1H-cyclopenta[b]quinolin-1-ol, were obtained by optical resolution of each racemic alcohol using (+)-di-p-toluoyl-D-tartaric acid.

Synthesis and pharmacological properties of 2,4-disubstituted 5-amino-6-pyrimidinecarboxylic acid derivatives. Part III

2,4-Disubstituted 5-amino-6-pyrimidinecarboxylic acid derivatives 5-13 were synthesized and evaluated for their pharmacological activity. Compounds 5, 7, 9, 10 and 12 showed antiaggressive effect, compounds 6 and 10 showed synergism with hexobarbital while compound 6 exerted analgesic activity.

Synthesis and pharmacological properties of derivatives of isoxazolo[4,3-d]pyrimidine. III

Synthesis of new isoxazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidine derivatives is reported. Some of isoxazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidine derivatives were tested for anticonvulsant, anxiolytic and antiserotonine activity. Compounds 14 and 16 proved active against hypothermia induced by reserpine and hyperthermia induced by m-CPP.

Synthesis and pharmacological study of 5,6,8,9-tetrahydro-4H, 7H-pyrrolo[1,2-a]cyclopenta[b]thieno[3,2-f][1,4]diazepines

The paper reports the synthesis of a series of 5,6,8,9-tetrahydro-4H, 7H-pyrrolo[1,2-a]cyclopenta[b]thieno-[3,2-f][1,4]diazepines and the results of the study on their CNS activity in mice. The pharmacological properties of a previously prepared series of 5,6,7,8,9,10-hexahydro-benzo-analogs is also described.

Investigations on the synthesis and properties of some N-heteroarylpiperazinylalkyl derivatives of imides of 3,4-pyridinedicarboxylic acids

The synthesis of N-heteroarylpiperazinylalkyl derivatives of imides of 3,4-pyridinedicarboxylic acids is described. In pharmacological screening some of the obtained compounds proved to be pharmacologically active.

Synthesis and amnesia-reversal activity of a series of 7- and 5-membered 3-acylamino lactams

A series of 3-(acylamino)-epsilon-caprolactams and 3-(acylamino)-2-pyrrolidinones was synthesized. Some of these compounds reversed at different degrees electroconvulsive shock- and Scopolamine-induced amnesia, using a step-through passive avoidance in mice. Classical nootropic drugs, i.e., Aniracetam, Oxiracetam, and Piracetam, were used as reference compounds. Within the analyses of data performed, we introduced a new parameter, the confrontation index (CI), which is a function of Mann-Whitney's U statistic. The CI permits a common scale of activity of substances to be generated, independently of probabilistic hypotheses, with higher scores representing higher activities. The most active compounds were characterized by the formylamino and [3-(trifluoromethyl)benzoyl]amino groups in the 3-position of the ring. None of the substances assayed showed any effect on spontaneous behavior and neurovegetative system.

Investigations on the synthesis and properties of arylpiperazinylalkyl derivatives of some dihydro- and tetrahydropyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidines

Synthesis of S- and N-arylpiperazinylalkyl derivatives of ethyl 2-thio-4-oxo-3,4-dihydro- and 2,4-dioxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrido [2,3-d] pyrimidine-5-carboxylate is described. Some of the obtained compounds are pharmacologically active.

Investigations on the synthesis and properties of some N-arylpiperazinylalkyl derivatives of imides of 3,4-pyridinedicarboxylic acids

The synthesis of N-arylpiperazinylalkyl derivatives of imides of 3,4-pyridinedicarboxylic acid is described. In pharmacological screening some of the obtained compounds displayed biological activity, but they were inactive as anxiolytic agents.

Synthesis and central pharmacological screening of new aminoalkoxy derivatives of coumarin and chromene

Several 8-(2- and 3-aminoalkoxy) derivatives of coumarin and 5-(2- and 3-aminoalkoxy) derivatives of chromene have been synthesized. The strongest, although short-time neurodepressive activity was exhibited by 8-[3-(4-phenyl-1-piperazinyl)propoxy]-7-methoxycoumarin hydrochloride 15.

Studies on annelated [1,4]benzothiazines and [1,5]benzothiazepines, V. Synthesis and biological activity of N-2 alkylamino derivatives of 4,5-dihydro-s-triazolo[3,4-d]-1,5-benzothiazepine

The synthesis of a new series of N-2 alkylamino derivatives of 4,5-dihydro-s-triazolo[3,4-d]-1,5-benzothiazepine has been accomplished starting from 2,3-dihydro-1,5-benzothiazepin-4(5H)ones and their 2-methyl and 2-aryl derivatives. All the compounds were tested in vitro for their antimicrobial activity, but none of them showed remarkable activity. The tricyclic compounds 7a-j, 8a-j, 9a-j, 10a-j, and 11a-j were also screened for their CNS activity in mice and several of them showed interesting activity.

Novel uracil derivatives: newly synthesized centrally acting agents

A series of 1-amino-5-substituted uracils and their 4-thio or 2,4-dithio substituted analogues were synthesized and assayed for anti-conflict activity in rats and anesthetic activity in mice. 1-Amino-5-halogenouracils 3b-e, 1-amino-4-thiouracil (9a), and 1-amino-5-halogeno-4-thiouracils 9c, d showed both anti-conflict and anesthetic activities. The most active compound was 1-amino-5-chloro-4-thiouracil (9d) which showed anxiolytic activity at 2 mg/kg of oral administration (p.o.) on a modified Geller-Seifter conflict schedule. Its minimum effective dose (MED) was lower than that of diazepam. The 50 percent effective dose (ED50) for anesthetic activity in mice of the compound (9d) was 32.9 mg/kg, p.o.

Researches on psychotropic agents. IV. Synthesis and neuropsychopharmacological effects of 1,3,4,14 b-tetrahydro-10-methyl-2H,10H- pyrazino[2,1-d] pyrrolo[1,2-b][1,2,5]benzotriazepine and its derivatives

The synthesis and neuropsychopharmacological properties of new 1,3,4,14b-tetrahydro-2H,10H-pyrazino [2,1-d] pyrrolo [1,2-b] [1,2,5] benzotriazepine derivatives related to antidepressant agent aptazepine are reported. The new derivatives displayed sedative-miorelaxant activity in mice, but no significant antagonist effect on clonidine blockade of phenylquinone-induced abdominal constriction. Among test compounds 4a, 4l and 4n showed high antinociceptive effect on the hot-plate test and compound 4e protected from death and convulsion all the electroshocked animals.

[The synthesis of new pyrrolidone derivatives with psychotropic action]

The synthesis of ten new heterocyclic compounds obtained by the addition of pyrrolidone to heterocumulenes and its condensation or of its sodic derivative with acid chlorides is presented. The synthetized pyrolidonic derivatives were subjected to a preliminary study for determining their possible psychotropic action. The pharmacological screening evidenced a significant hypothermisante and neurodynamic-nootropic action of some synthetized compounds.

Pyrrylphenylethanones related to cathinone and lefetamine: synthesis and pharmacological activities

The synthesis of various pyrrylphenylethanones resembling cathinone and lefetamine is described starting from 2-chloro-1-(1-methyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)-2-phenylethan-1-one. Some derivatives showed good antinociceptic activity, comparable to that of morphine. The neuropsychopharmacological profile of title compounds has been also studied to explore their action on C.N.S.

Synthesis and pharmacology of 3-aryl-5,6-dihydro-6-oxo-1(4H)-pyridazineacetic acid derivatives

The title compounds were prepared by alkylation of 6-aryl-4,5-dihydro-3(2H)-pyridazinones with esters of alpha-bromoacetic acid. Hydrolysis of these esters afforded the corresponding carboxylic acids which were coupled with various amines yielding 6-oxo-1(4H)-pyridazineacetamides. A number of these derivatives showed weak anticonvulsant and weak analgesic activities, while nearly all displayed a sedative profile.