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 R1, R2, R4, Ra, Rb, Rc, Re, A*, W1, W2 and W3 are as defined in claim 1, for the treatment of CXCR3 related diseases.