The discovery of a novel series of CXCR3 antagonists is described. Starting from an HTS positive, iterative optimization gave potent compounds (IC(50) 15 nM in a chemotaxis assay). The strategy employed to improve the metabolic stability of these derivatives is described. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
The invention relates to compounds of formula I
wherein R
1
, R
2
, R
4
, R
a
, R
b
, R
c
, R
e
, A*, W
1
, W
2
and W
3
are as defined in claim
16
, for the treatment of CXCR3 related diseases.
The discovery of a novel series of CXCR3 antagonists is described. Starting from an HTS positive, iterative optimization gave potent compounds (IC(50) 15 nM in a chemotaxis assay). The strategy employed to improve the metabolic stability of these derivatives is described. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.