II. Discovery of a novel series of CXCR3 antagonists with a beta amino acid core.

ABSTRACT

A new series of beta amino acids, which act as CXCR3 antagonists, has been identified. The formerly optimized N,N-disubstituted benzylamine derivatives with carboxylic acid function on the N-atom was used as starting point and compounds with carboxyl function not attached to the N-atom were investigated. Affinity, metabolic stability in human and mouse liver microsomes and Caco-2 permeability were optimized. Compounds with double-digit nanomolar CXCR3 affinity, favourable microsomal stability and Caco-2 permeability have been identified.