C7-Substituted Oxysterols for Selective NMDA Receptor Modulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for new oxysterols that modulate NMDA receptor function to prevent and treat conditions associated with NMDA expression and function, including psychiatric disorders and CNS-related conditions.

Innovation Solution

Development of substituted oxysterols, represented by specific chemical formulas, which act as modulators of NMDA receptors to address these conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If natural oxysterols are used to modulate NMDA receptor function, then therapeutic effect is achieved, but structural diversity and optimization of pharmacological activity are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepharmacological activityVSAvoidmolecular structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying substituents at specific positions (C7, C8, C9, C10) of the oxsterol molecular framework. By changing chemical parameters such as introducing fluorine atoms, modifying side chain lengths, and adjusting substituent types at defined positions, the invention optimizes binding affinity and pharmacological activity at NMDA receptors while maintaining a consistent core structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs asymmetry by introducing chiral centers and stereoisomers at specific positions in the oxsterol molecule. The use of specific stereoisomers (e.g., 7α, 7β, 8α, 8β configurations) creates asymmetric molecular structures that selectively interact with chiral binding sites on NMDA receptors, thereby enhancing pharmacological specificity and activity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Reliability

If existing oxysterol compounds are used, then NMDA receptor modulation is achieved, but efficacy and selectivity for specific disorders are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetherapeutic efficacyVSAvoiddisorder-specific treatment
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by introducing specific substituents at specific local positions on the oxsterol molecule. For example, fluorine atoms are positioned at C7 or C8, while specific side chains are attached at C10, creating localized chemical features that enhance binding to particular NMDA receptor subtypes or isoforms, thereby improving disorder-specific therapeutic efficacy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the oxsterol molecule into distinct functional regions: a core oxsterol framework, specific substituent groups at C7-C10 positions, and side chain moieties. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each region for specific pharmacological activities, enabling tailored compounds for different neurological disorders.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional NMDA modulators are used, then general NMDA activity is affected, but lack of specificity leads to unwanted side effects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveside effectsVSAvoidNMDA modulation
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses the oxsterol molecule as an intermediary that selectively bridges specific NMDA receptor subtypes. By incorporating specific substituents that recognize particular receptor isoforms (e.g., NR1-NR2 subunit combinations), the compound acts as a selective mediator that modulates NMDA activity at target receptors while minimizing interaction with non-target receptors, thereby reducing side effects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20250388622A1C7 substituted oxysterols and methods of use thereof
Publication Date: 2025.12.25 SAGE THERAPEUTICS INC
  • US20250388622A1 patent drawing
  • US20250388622A1 patent drawing
  • US20250388622A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Compounds are provided according to Formula (A):and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, and pharmaceutical compositions thereof; wherein R1A, R1B, n, R2A, R2B, R3, and R4 are as defined herein. Compounds of the present invention are contemplated useful for the prevention and treatment of a variety of conditions.