2014/12/03 by Spyros P. Nikas, Rishi Sharma, Carol A. Paronis +13 · 2 citations
Medicine · Neuroscience · Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · #Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research #Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology Research #Pharmacological Receptor Mechanisms and Effects
paper · doi:10.1021/jm501165d
openalex publication_date 2014/12/03 · openalex created_date 2016/06/24 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/01
We recently reported on a controlled deactivation/detoxification approach for obtaining cannabinoids with improved druggability. Our design incorporates a metabolically labile ester group at strategic positions within the THC structure. We have now synthesized a series of (-)-Δ(8)-THC analogues encompassing a carboxyester group within the 3-alkyl chain in an effort to explore this novel cannabinergic chemotype for CB receptor binding affinity, in vitro and in vivo potency and efficacy, as well as controlled deactivation by plasma esterases. We have also probed the chain's polar characteristics with regard to fast onset and short duration of action. Our lead molecule, namely 2-[(6aR,10aR)-6a,7,10,10a-tetrahydro-1-hydroxy-6,6,9-trimethyl-6H-dibenzo[b,d]pyran-3-yl]-2-methyl-propanoic acid 3-cyano-propyl ester (AM7438), showed picomolar affinity for CB receptors and is deactivated by plasma esterases while the respective acid metabolite is inactive. In further in vitro and in vivo experiments, the compound was found to be a remarkably potent and efficacious CB1 receptor agonist with relatively fast onset/offset of action.