The influence of 5-HT2A activity on a 5-HT2C specific in vivo assay used for early identification of multiple acting SERT and 5-HT2C receptor ligands.

As a result of our exploratory programme aimed at elaborating dually acting compounds towards the serotonin (5-HT) transporter (SERT) and the 5-HT2C receptor a novel series of 3-amino-1-phenylpropoxy substituted diphenylureas was identified. From that collection two promising compounds (2 and 3) exhibiting highest 5-HT2C receptor affinity strongly inhibited the 5-HT2C receptor agonist 1-(3-chlorophenyl)piperazine (mCPP) induced hypomotility in mice. In further pursuance of that objective (2-aminoethyl)(benzyl)sulfamoyl diphenylureas and diphenylpiperazines have also been elaborated. Herein we report the synthesis of potent multiple-acting compounds from this new class. However, when two optimized representatives (6 and 14) possessing the desired in vitro profile were tested neither reduced the motor activity of mCPP treated animals. Comparative albeit limited in vitro structure–activity relationship (SAR) analysis and detailed in vivo studies are discussed and explanation for their intricate behaviour is proposed.