Probes of the active site of norepinephrine N-methyltransferase: effect of hydrophobic and hydrophilic interactions on side-chain binding of amphetamine and alpha-methylbenzylamine

J Med Chem. 1982 Oct;25(10):1248-50. doi: 10.1021/jm00352a031.

Abstract

A series of omega-substituted analogues of amphetamine and alpha-methylbenzylamine were prepared and evaluated as inhibitors of norepinephrine N-methyltransferase (NMT). These included several alkyl side chain extended analogues (1-5), as well as the terminally hydroxylated derivatives phenylalanol (6a) and phenylglycinol (7a). None of the alkyl-substituted derivatives displayed appreciable activity as inhibitors; however, the hydroxylated analogues were up to twofold more potent than the parent compounds. The positive contribution of the side-chain hydroxy suggests that the terminal methyl group of the lead compounds is situated close to a hydrophilic area or hydrogen bonding functional group within the active site.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Amines / metabolism*
  • Amphetamines / metabolism*
  • Benzylamines / metabolism*
  • Binding Sites
  • Catalysis
  • Phenethylamines / metabolism*
  • Phenylethanolamine N-Methyltransferase / metabolism*
  • Structure-Activity Relationship

Substances

  • Amines
  • Amphetamines
  • Benzylamines
  • Phenethylamines
  • Phenylethanolamine N-Methyltransferase
  • 1-phenethylamine