3-(2-THIENYLVINYL)INDOLES AS POTENTIAL SPECIFIC INHIBITORS OF THE ENERGY-METABOLISM IN HELMINTHIC PARASITES

Seven indoles bearing a thienylvinyl group, present in the well known anthelmintic drug pyrantel, were synthesized and tested as inhibitors of the mitochondrial energy metabolism in order to recognize selective compounds (active on the mitochondria of helminthic parasites but inactive on the mitochondria of birds and mammals). 1-Phenyl-2-chloro-3-(2-thienylvinyl)indole 14, showing this biochemical behaviour, was also tested on Parascaris equorum living worms, confirming its activity on the energy metabolism.