Synthesis, biological evaluation and structure-activity relationship of new GABA uptake inhibitors, derivatives of 4-aminobutanamides

Abstract

Six series of 2-substituted 4-aminobutanamide derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their ability to inhibit GABA transport proteins mGAT1-4 stably expressed in HEK-293 cell lines. The pIC50 values determined were in the range 4.23-5.23. Two compounds (15b and 15c) were selected for further in vitro studies. These compounds were also subjected to preliminary behavioral studies to evaluate their anticonvulsant, antidepressant-like, and antinociceptive activities in mice. Their influence on motor coordination was also assessed. We report that, among a spectrum of in vivo activities, both 15b and 15c displayed significant activity against pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures.

Keywords: 4-Aminobutanamides; Depression; GABA uptake inhibitors; Pain; Seizures; mGAT1–4.