Synthesis and biological evaluation of analogues of M6G

Synthesis and biological evaluation of new derivatives of Morphine-6-Glucuronide (M6G) are described. M6G is an active metabolite of morphine which displays more analgesia than morphine with a superior side effect profile but with a less efficiently BBB penetration. These phenomena could be explained by the presence of the glucuronide moiety, which confers a higher hydrophilic character compare to morphine. In this context, we have prepared three analogues of M6G possessing a tetrazole, an oxadiazole, and a triazolopyrimidine moiety instead of the carboxylic acid function on position 5 of the sugar. These three analogues showed higher analgesic properties than morphine and M6G even by oral administration.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Synthesis of three heterocyclic analogues of M6G. ► All analogues exhibit more powerful analgesic activity than morphine. ► Long duration analgesic properties and activity by oral administration.