Piperazinyl Norbenzomorphan Compounds for Sigma 2 Selectivity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sigma 2 receptor ligands lack subtype selectivity and general selectivity, limiting their effectiveness in treating conditions related to sigma 2 receptor biological activities.

Innovation Solution

Development of piperazinyl norbenzomorphan compounds with specific structural modifications, including various substituents and linkages, to enhance selectivity and efficacy in modulating sigma 2 receptors and progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1).

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If known sigma 2 receptor ligands are used, then they can bind to sigma 2 receptors, but they lack subtype selectivity and general selectivity

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveselectivityVSAvoidreceptor binding capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces specific substituent groups (R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8) at different positions of the norbenzomorphan core structure, where each position can be independently optimized for selective binding to sigma 2 receptors versus sigma 1 receptors. This localized modification approach enables differential interaction with receptor subtypes while maintaining overall binding capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The norbenzomorphan core structure itself possesses asymmetric stereochemistry with defined chiral centers, and the patent further introduces asymmetric substituent patterns that create distinct three-dimensional binding geometries. This asymmetry allows for enantioselective binding to sigma 2 receptors while discriminating against sigma 1 receptors, thereby achieving subtype selectivity without sacrificing binding efficacy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Reliability

If compounds with norbenzomorphan core structure are developed to improve selectivity, then subtype selectivity may be enhanced, but the complexity of compound design and synthesis increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesubtype selectivityVSAvoidcompound structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the molecule into a stable norbenzomorphan core structure and variable substituent segments (R1-R8 groups). This segmentation allows the core to maintain structural integrity and essential binding properties, while the substituent segments can be independently optimized for selectivity. This modular approach simplifies the design process by separating structure-activity relationship optimization into manageable segments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent systematically varies parameters such as substituent type (halogen, alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl), substituent position, and stereochemistry to optimize selectivity. By changing these parameters in a controlled manner across multiple embodiments, the patent achieves enhanced subtype selectivity while maintaining reasonable structural complexity that can be managed through systematic medicinal chemistry approaches

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If existing ligands are used for treating sigma 2 receptor-related conditions, then they can provide some therapeutic effect, but their lack of selectivity limits effectiveness

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetherapeutic effectivenessVSAvoidtreatment efficacy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

By introducing specific substituent groups at defined positions on the norbenzomorphan core, the patent creates compounds with localized interactions that enhance binding affinity and selectivity for sigma 2 receptors. This localized optimization translates to improved therapeutic effectiveness by ensuring preferential engagement of the intended target while minimizing off-target effects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent describes multiple specific embodiments of compounds with defined structures rather than broad classes, enabling more precise dosing and potentially reduced doses due to higher selectivity. This precision reduces the need for high doses and minimizes side effects, improving overall treatment efficacy without requiring complex delivery systems or combination therapies

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentEP3364976B1Piperazinyl norbenzomorphan compounds and methods for using the same
Publication Date: 2026.03.18 BOARD OF RGT THE UNIV OF TEXAS SYST
  • EP3364976B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3364976B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3364976B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Disclosed herein, inter alia, are piperazinyl norbenzom orphan compounds and uses thereof, including, for example, methods for treating a CNS disease, treating traumatic brain injury, improving cognition, or diagnosing and treating cancer.