Azacyclic TRPM8 Modulators for Long-Lasting Skin Cooling

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing TRPM8 modulators, such as menthol and its derivatives, provide short-lasting cooling sensations and lack structural diversity, limiting their effectiveness in consumer products.

Innovation Solution

Development of a new class of chemical compounds that significantly differ structurally from known TRPM8 modulators, capable of inducing a long-lasting cooling sensation at very low concentrations by activating TRPM8 ion channels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of moving object

If existing TRPM8 modulators like menthol and its derivatives are used, then cooling sensation is provided, but the duration of action is short

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by developing compounds with modified molecular structures (formula I) that differ from traditional menthol derivatives. The invention changes key structural parameters including the core heterocyclic ring system, substituent positions, and functional group arrangements to achieve prolonged TRPM8 channel activation, thereby extending the duration of cooling sensation while maintaining effectiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If menthol and its derivatives are used as TRPM8 modulators, then cooling sensation is achieved, but structural diversity is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the molecular structure into distinct functional segments: a core heterocyclic ring system (formula I), various substituent groups (R1, R2, R3), and optional functional moieties. This segmented approach enables systematic variation of each segment to generate structurally diverse compounds with different properties, thereby achieving adaptability while managing structural complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Temperature

If higher concentrations of cooling agents are used, then stronger cooling sensation is achieved, but the concentration required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
TemperatureVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the molecular structure of compounds according to formula I to enhance their intrinsic activity at the TRPM8 receptor. The modified heterocyclic core and strategic substituent placement increase the compound's affinity and efficacy, enabling strong cooling sensations at lower concentrations compared to traditional menthol derivatives

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

These compounds provide a prolonged cooling effect on human skin and mucosa, enhancing the sensory appeal of consumer products like foodstuffs, tobacco products, beverages, dentifrices, mouthwashes, toothpastes, and toiletries.

Implementation Method 1

capable of inducing a long-lasting cooling sensation at very low concentrations by activating TRPM8 ion channels

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTRPM8 ion channel activation:

Data Source

PatentUS20260103459A1Substituted azacyles as TRPM8 modulators
Publication Date: 2026.04.16
  • US20260103459A1 patent drawing
  • US20260103459A1 patent drawing
  • US20260103459A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed are TRPM8 modulators as defined by formula (I) for achieving a cooling effect on skin and mucousa. The disclosure relates to a particular class of compounds capable to activate TRPM8 ion channels. It further relates to the use of these compounds for inducing a sensation of coldness, and to consumer products comprising these compounds.