(±)-Nantenine analogs as antagonists at human 5-HT2A receptors: C1 and flexible congeners

C1 and flexible analogs of (±)-nantenine were synthesized and evaluated for antagonist activity at human 5-HT2A receptors in a calcium mobilization assay. This work has resulted in the identification of the most potent 5-HT2A antagonist known based on an aporphine. Our results also suggest that the C1 position may be a key site for increasing 5-HT2A antagonist activity in this compound series. In addition, the structural rigidity of the aporphine core appears to be required for nantenine to function as a 5-HT2A antagonist.