Discovery and hit-to-lead optimization of pyrrolopyrimidines as potent, state-dependent Nav1.7 antagonists

Herein we describe the discovery, optimization, and structure-activity relationships of novel potent pyrrolopyrimidine Nav1.7 antagonists. Hit-to-lead SAR studies of the pyrrolopyrimidine core, head, and tail groups of the molecule led to the identification of pyrrolopyrimidine 48 as exceptionally potent Nav1.7 blocker with good selectivity over hERG and improved microsomal stability relative to our hit molecule and pyrazolopyrimidine 8 as a promising starting point for future optimization efforts.