Synthesis, binding affinity and SAR of new benzolactam derivatives as dopamine D3 receptor ligands

Abstract

A series of new benzolactam derivatives was synthesized and the derivatives were evaluated for their affinities at the dopamine D1, D2, and D3 receptors. Some of these compounds showed high D2 and/or D3 affinity and selectivity over the D1 receptor. The SAR study of these compounds revealed structural characteristics that decisively influenced their D2 and D3 affinities. Structural models of the complexes between some of the most representative compounds of this series and the D2 and D3 receptors were obtained with the aim of rationalizing the observed experimental results. Moreover, selected compounds showed moderate binding affinity on 5-HT2A which could contribute to reducing the occurrence of extrapyramidal side effects as potential antipsychotics.