Structure-activity relationships for 1-alkyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indoles at the cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors: steric and electronic effects of naphthoyl substituents. New highly selective CB2 receptor agonists

The synthesis and pharmacology of 47 1-alkyl-3-(1-naphthoyl)indoles (R = C3H7 and C5H11, R′ = H and CH3) is described. Naphthoyl substituents include 4- and 7-alkyl groups, plus 2, 4, 6, and 7-methoxy groups. Three of these compounds are highly selective CB2 receptor agonists.