Discovery And Optimization Of Benzenesulfonanilide Derivatives As A Novel Class Of 11 Beta-Hsd1 Inhibitors

A novel series of benzenesulfonanilide derivatives of 11 beta-HSD1 inhibitors were identified via modification of the sulfonamide core of the arylsulfonylpiperazine lead structures. The synthesis, in vitro biological evaluation, and structure-activity relationship of these compounds are presented. Optimization of this series rapidly resulted in the discovery of compounds (S)-10 and (S)-23 (11 beta-HSD1 SPA IC50 = 1.8 and 1.4 nM, respectively). (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.