Development of Novel Alaninamide Derivatives with Anticonvulsant Activity and Favorable Safety Profiles in Animal Models.

Abstract

In our current study, we developed a focused series of original ((benzyloxy)benzyl)propanamide derivatives that demonstrated potent activity across in vivo mouse seizure models, specifically, maximal electroshock (MES) and 6 Hz (32 mA) seizures. Among these derivatives, compoundemerged as a lead molecule, exhibiting robust protection following intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection, as follows: ED= 48.0 mg/kg in the MES test, ED= 45.2 mg/kg in the 6 Hz (32 mA) test, and ED= 201.3 mg/kg in the 6 Hz (44 mA) model. Additionally, compounddisplayed low potential for inducing motor impairment in the rotarod test (TD> 300 mg/kg), indicating a potentially favorable therapeutic window. In vitro toxicity assays further supported its promising safety profile. We also attempted to identify a plausible mechanism of action of compoundby applying both binding and functional in vitro studies. Overall, the data obtained for this lead molecule justifies the more comprehensive preclinical development of compoundas a candidate for a potentially broad-spectrum and safe anticonvulsant.