Methods for drug discovery: development of potent, selective, orally effective cholecystokinin antagonists

TLDR: 3-(Acylamino)-5-phenyl-2H-1,4-benzodiazepines, antagonists of the peptide hormone cholecystokinin (CCK), are described, and the method of development of these compounds is discussed in terms of its relevance to the general problem of drug discovery.

Abstract: 3-(Acylamino)-5-phenyl-2H-1,4-benzodiazepines, antagonists of the peptide hormone cholecystokinin (CCK), are described. Developed by reasoned modification of the known anxiolytic benzodiazepines, these compounds provide highly potent, orally effective ligands selective for peripheral (CCK-A) receptors, with binding affinities approaching or equaling that of the natural ligand CCK-8. The distinction between CCK-A receptors on the one hand and CNS (CCK-B), gastrin, and central benzodiazepine receptors on the other is demonstrated by using the structure-activity profiles of the new compounds. Details of the binding of these agents to CCK-A receptors are examined, and the method of development of these compounds is discussed in terms of its relevance to the general problem of drug discovery.