Design and synthesis of 1-(2-alkanamidoethyl)-6-methoxy-7-azaindole derivatives as potent melatonin agonists

A series of 7-azaindolic ligands bearing a methoxy group and a N-acetyl chain as melatoninergic pharmacophores were synthesized and their binding affinities towards MT1 and MT2 receptors were evaluated. Compounds 7a–c and 12 (cyclohexyl ring connected at C-2 and C-3 position) appears as important melatonin MT2 and MT1 receptors agonists. On the other hand, the presence of basic groups (amines) at position C-3 was detrimental to the melatoninergic affinities.

Graphical abstractNew potent melatonin agonists based on a 7-azaindole scaffold are reported, along with some affinities-dependent pharmacomodulations.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide