Synthesis of Apoptosis-Inducing Agents via Crystalline Intermediates

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Solution Overview

Problem

Previous processes for synthesizing Bcl-2 inhibitors, such as Compound 1 and Compound 2, face challenges in scalability, yield, and purification complexity, making them impractical for commercial production and clinical development.

Innovation Solution

A novel process involving a selective nucleophilic aromatic substitution reaction (SnAr reaction) with milder conditions and shorter reaction times, utilizing crystalline intermediates for efficient purification, and a convergent cross-coupling reaction to enhance yield and simplify the synthesis of these compounds.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If previous synthesis processes are used for Bcl-2 inhibitors, then the compounds can be produced, but the overall yield is low and purification is complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoverall yieldVSAvoidpurification complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the reaction parameters by using a two-stage synthesis approach with specific reagents and conditions. Stage 1 uses NaH and DMF at controlled temperatures to form the intermediate, while Stage 2 uses EDCI and HOBt in DCM to complete the coupling. These parameter changes result in improved yields (Stage 1: 85-95%, Stage 2: 90-98%) and simplified purification compared to previous processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The synthesis process is segmented into two distinct stages with isolated purification steps. Stage 1 produces a crystalline intermediate that can be purified independently, and Stage 2 completes the synthesis from this purified intermediate. This segmentation allows each stage to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall purification process by removing impurities at the intermediate stage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Speed

If previous synthesis processes are used, then compounds can be synthesized, but the reaction conditions are harsh and reaction times are long

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereaction timeVSAvoidharsh reaction conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces crystalline intermediates as mediators between the starting materials and final products. The intermediate formed in Stage 1 serves as a stable, isolable compound that facilitates the overall transformation under milder conditions. This intermediary approach allows for better control of reaction conditions and reduces the need for harsh reagents and extended reaction times

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The first stage of the synthesis performs a preliminary transformation to create a functionalized intermediate with the desired core structure. This preliminary action prepares the molecule for the final coupling step, allowing the overall synthesis to proceed under milder conditions in the second stage rather than requiring harsh conditions throughout the entire process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of manufacture

If previous processes are used, then synthesis can be performed, but scalability is limited and the process is impractical for commercial production

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovescalabilityVSAvoidcommercial viability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the synthesis parameters to enable scale-up by using reagents and conditions that are easier to control in large-scale operations. The two-stage process with isolated purification steps allows for better control of reaction parameters at scale, and the high yields at each stage ensure economical production. The crystalline intermediate facilitates filtration and purification operations that are more easily scaled than previous methods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The improved process increases the overall yield and efficiency of Compound 1 and Compound 2 production, making them viable for commercial and clinical applications by simplifying the synthesis and reducing the need for tedious purification steps.

Implementation Method 1

A novel process involving a selective nucleophilic aromatic substitution reaction (SnAr reaction) with milder conditions and shorter reaction times

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNucleophilic aromatic substitution (SnAr): Chemical Bonding

Implementation Method 2

a convergent cross-coupling reaction to enhance yield and simplify the synthesis of these compounds

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCross-coupling reaction: Chemical Bonding

Data Source

PatentEP4019491A1Process for preparing a synthetic intermediate useful in the preparation of an apoptosis-inducing agent
Publication Date: 2022.06.29 ABBVIE IRELAND UNLIMITED CO
  • EP4019491A1 patent drawing
  • EP4019491A1 patent drawing
  • EP4019491A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided herein is a process for the preparation of an apoptosis-inducing agent, and chemical intermediates thereof. Also provided herein are novel chemical intermediates related to the process provided herein.