IDENTIFICATION OF A SERIES OF 3-(BENZYLOXY)-1-AZABICYCLO[2.2.2]OCTANE HUMAN NK1 ANTAGONISTS

The synthesis and in vitro and in vivo evaluation of a series of 3-(benzyloxy)-1-azabicyclo[2.2.2]octane NK1 antagonists are described. While a number of 3,5-disubstituted benzyl ethers afford high affinity, the 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzyl was found to combine high in vitro affinity with good oral activity. Detailed structure-activity relationship studies in conjunction with data from molecular modeling and mutagenesis work have allowed the construction of a model of the pharmacophore. Specific interactions that have been identified include an interaction between His-197 and one of the rings of the benzhydryl, a Lipophilic pocket containing His-265 that the benzyl ether occupies, and a possible hydrogen bond between Gln-165 and the oxygen of the benzyl ether.