OA16801A

OA16801A - Compounds for the treatment of addiction.

Info

Publication number: OA16801A
Application number: OA1201300542
Authority: OA
Inventors: Carina E. Cannizzaro; Michael Graupe; Juan A. Guerrero; Yafan Lu; Robert G. Strickley; Chandrasekar Venkataramani; Jeff. ZABLOCKI
Original assignee: Gilead Sciences, Inc.
Priority date: 2011-07-01
Filing date: 2012-06-29
Publication date: 2016-01-04

Abstract

Disclosed are novel compounds having the structure of Formula (I) :

Description

COMPOUNDS FOR THE TREATMENT OF ADDICTION

FIELD [0001] The présent disclosure relates to novel human mitochondrial aldéhyde dehydrogenase (ALDH-2) inhibitors and their use in treating mammals for their dependence upon drugs of addiction, such as an addiction to dopamine-producing agents like cocaïne, opiates, amphétamines, nicotine, and alcohol. The disclosure further relates to methods for the use of such compounds, and to pharmaceutical compositions containing them.

BACKGROUND [0002] Today, dependence upon drugs of addiction causes major health problems worldwide. For example, alcohol abuse and alcohol dependency can cause liver, pancreatic and kidney disease, heart disease, including dilated cardiomyopathy, polyneuropathy, internai bleeding, brain détérioration, alcohol poisoning, increased incidence of many types of cancer, insomnia, dépréssion, anxiety, and even suicide. Heavy alcohol consumption by a prégnant mother can also lead to fêtai alcohol syndrome, which is an incurable condition.

Additionally, alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence are major contributing factors for head injuries, motor vehicle accidents, violence and assaults, and other neurological and other medical problems.

[0003] Addiction to nicotine is estimated by the National Institute on Drug Abuse to kill nearly 500,000 Americans every year. This total represents about 1 in 6 of ail deaths in the U.S. caused by any means, and is more than the total of deaths caused by use of alcohol, cocaïne, heroin, suicide, car accidents, fire and AIDS combined. Cigarette smoking is the most popular method of using nicotine, but there are also smokeless tobacco products such as snuff and chewing tobacco.

(0004] Nicotine addiction is linked to disease states such as leukemia, cataracts, and pneumonia; it is the cause of about one-third of ail cancer deaths, the foremost of which is lung cancer. In addition to cancer, cigarette smoking also causes lung diseases, such as bronchitis and emphysema; it exacerbâtes asthma symptoms, and is the cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases in general. It is also well known that cigarette smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke, heart attack, vascular disease, aneurysm, and the like.

[0005] Another major health problem is caused by cocaïne abuse. Physical effects of cocaïne use include constricted blood vessels, dilated pupils, and increased température, heart rate, and blood pressure. A user of cocaïne can expérience acute cardiovascular or cerebrovascular emergencies, such as a heart attack or stroke, potentially resulting in sudden death. Other complications associated with cocaïne use include disturbances in heart rhythm, chest pain and respîratory failure, seizures, headaches, and gastrointestinal complications such as abdominal pain and nausea. Because cocaïne has a tendency to decrease appetite, many chronic users can become malnourished. Repeated use of cocaïne may lead to a state of increasing irritability, restlessness, and paranoïa. This can resuit in a period of full-blown paranoid psychosis, in which the user loses touch with reality and expériences auditory hallucinations. Moreover, it is well known that the concurrent abuse of nicotine, cocaïne and alcohol is common. It has been found that the combination of cocaïne and alcohol exerts more cardiovascular toxicity in humans than either drug alone.

[0006] Historically, treating chemical dependence largely involved attempts to persuade patients to discontinue use the substance voluntarily (behavioral therapy). However, cocaïne, morphine, amphétamines, nicotine, and alcohol, and other types of dopamine-producing agents are highly addictive substances, and dependence upon such drugs can be harder to break and is signifîcantly more damaging than dependence on most other addictive substances. In particular, alcohol, cocaïne, and heroin dependence are typically chronic relapsing disorders.

[0007] There has been some moderate success in providing effective treatments for tobacco addiction by the use of nicotine replacement therapy, such as nicotine gum or the nicotine transdermal patch. Additionally, antidepressants and antihypertensive drugs hâve been tried, with modest success. Attempts hâve also been made to treat tobacco addiction by persuading patients to discontinue the use of tobacco voluntarily (behavioral therapy), but this method has not proved to be very successful. Accordingly, it is clearly désirable to find a treatment for tobacco addiction that reduces or prevents the craving for nicotine that does not involve nicotine replacement therapy or the use of antidepressants and antihypertensive drugs.

[0008] Accordingly, there has been much interest in the scientifîc community in attempting to find substances that could be employed to ameliorate dependency on addictive agents.

Compounds that hâve previously been employed for the treatment of alcohol abuse include disulfiram (Antabuse™), cyanamide, naltrexone; and acamprosate.

[0009] Naltrexone, a classical opîate antagonist, appears to act by reducing alcohol craving in abstinent patients. The drug, however, is hepatotoxic and causes side-effects that often require medical intervention. Acamprosate, another approved drug, is thought to act by modulating glutamatergic Systems. It only has moderate efficacy and serious side effects that include diarrhea, allergie reactions, irregular heartbeats, and low or high blood pressure. Disulfiram, an aldéhyde dehydrogenase inhibîtor, acts by interfering with the metabolic pathway of alcohol. Normally, alcohol is metabolized to acetaldehyde, which in tum is elîminated by oxidation to acetic acid by the enzyme aldéhyde dehydrogenase. Disulfiram inhibits aldéhyde dehydrogenase and thereby prevents oxidation of alcohol-generated acetaldehyde to acetic acid. Alcohol consumption during disulfiram treatment, however, leads to the accumulation of acetaldehyde, inducing unpleasant side-effects. Because disulfiram does not reduce craving for alcohol, success with the drug dépends on a high level of patient motivation since patients who wish to drink can simply stop taking the drug. Additionally, it has been recently proposed that disulfiram can be used for the treatment of cocaïne dependency (for example, see Bonet et al., Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 26 (2004), 225-232).

[0010] Recently it has been shown that an isoflavone known as daidzein and structurally related dérivatives thereof are effective in suppressing éthanol intake. Daidzein is the major active component obtained from extracts of Radix puerariae, a traditional Chinese médication that suppresses éthanol intake in Syrian golden hamsters. See Keung, W. M. and Vallee, B. L. (1993) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 90, 10008-10012 and Keung, W. M., Klyosov, A. A., and Vallee, B. L. (1997) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 94, 1675-1679, and U.S.

Patents 5,624,910 and 6,121,010. U.S. Patents 5,624,910 and 6,121,010 disclosed ether isoflavone dérivatives of daidzein, which were shown to be effective in treating éthanol dependency.

[0011J Mechanistically, daidzein and its dérivatives were shown to be potent and sélective inhibitors of human mitochondrial aldéhyde dehydrogenase (ALDH-2), which is an enzyme involved in the major enzymatic pathway responsible for éthanol metabolism in humans. It appears préférable that daidzein analogues inhibit ALDH-2 selectively relative to the monoamine oxidase (MAO) pathway because daidzein analogues that inhibit both ALDH-2 and MAO exhibited less antidipsotropic activity. Altematively, WO 2008/014497 disclosed novel isoflavone dérivatives that are sélective ALDH-2 inhibitors with lïttle effect on the MAO pathway and, thus, are useful for the treatment of alcohol dependency.

[0012] In view of the above-indicated discoveries, a demand has emerged for additional classes of compounds that are safe and effective for the treatment of alcohol dependency, but that are structurally distinct from disulfiram, cyanamide, naltrexone; acamprosate, daidzein, and analogs thereof. Idéally, such additional classes of compounds will also be useful for the treatment of other addictive agents such as cocaïne, heroin, and nicotine, and in particular, ameliorate the tendency of abusers to relapse.

SUMMARY [0013] Surprisingly, it has now been discovered that compounds of Formula (I) as described below, although structurally unrelated to known compounds for the treatment of addictive agents, are nonetheless effective for the treatment of alcohol dependency as determined from the model studies also described herein. Further, the compounds of Formula (1) are effective in the treatment of other addictive agents such as cocaïne, heroin, and nicotine. In particular, the compounds of Formula (I) ameliorate the tendency of abusers to relapse. In certain aspects, the compounds of Formula (I) inhibit ALDH-2 selectively relative to the monoamine oxidase (MAO) pathway.

[0014] Accordingly, in certain aspects, is provided compounds of Formula (I):

wherein:

R^l is hydrogen, optionally substituted Cm alkyl, -CH2OH, -CH₂OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹); R² is hydrogen, optionally substituted Cm alkyl, cycloalkyl, or halo;

each of R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹² and R¹³ is independently hydrogen, hydroxyl, -OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), -CH2OH, -CH2OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted alkylene, optionally substituted alkynyl, optionally substituted alkoxy, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted aryl, optionally substituted aralkyl, optionally substituted heteroaryl, optionally substituted heteroaralkyl, optionally substituted heterocyclyl, aminocarbonyl, acyl, acylamino, -O-(Ci to Cû-alkyl)O-(Ci to C6-alkyl), cyano, halo, -SO₂NR^{22 * 24}R²⁵; or -NR²⁴R²⁵;

R⁷ is hydrogen or optionally substituted Cm alkyl;

21 1 -j- [ 2(1 each of R and R is independently Na , Li , K , hydrogen, Cm alkyl; or R and *71 2+ 2 1 2+

R can be combined to represent a single divalent cation Zn , Ca , or Mg .

2Ί eachofR and R is independently optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted alkoxy, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted aryl, or-NR²⁴R^2S; and each of R²⁴ and R²⁵ is independently chosen from hydrogen or Cm alkyl or when combined together with the nitrogen to which they are attached form a heterocycle; or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, ester, single stereoisomer, mixture of stereoisomers, or tautomer thereof.

Provtded is a compound of Formula (la):

wherein:

R¹ is hydrogen, optionally substituted Cm alkyl, -CH2OH, -CH2OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), -C(O)R²², or -SO2R²³;

R² is hydrogen, optionally substituted Cm alkyl, cycloalkyl, or halo;

each of R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹² and R¹³ is independently hydrogen, hydroxyl, -OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), -CH2OH, -CH2OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted alkylene, optionally substituted alkynyl, optionally substituted alkoxy, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted aryl, optionally substituted aralkyl, optionally substituted heteroaryl, optionally substituted heteroaralkyl, optionally substituted heterocyclyl, aminocarbonyl, acyl, acylamino, -O-(C| to Ce-alkyl)O-(C[ to C6-alkyl), cyano, halo, -SO₂NR²⁴R²⁵; or -NR²⁴R²⁵;

R⁷ is hydrogen or optionally substituted Cm alkyl;

each of R²⁰ and R²¹ is independently Na⁺, Li⁺, K⁺, hydrogen, Cm alkyl; or R²⁰ and R can be combined to represent a single divalent cation Zn , Ca , or Mg .

each of R²² and R²³ is independently optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted alkoxy, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted aryl, or-NR²⁴R²⁵; and each of R²⁴ and R²⁵ is independently chosen from hydrogen or Cm alkyl or when combined together with the nitrogen to which they are attached form a heterocycle; or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, ester, single stereoisomer, mixture of stereoisomers, or tautomer thereof.

Also provided is a compound of formula (1b)

wherein:

R¹ is hydrogen, Ck6 alkyl, -CH2OR²², -CH2OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹);

Λ

R is hydrogen, cyano, Cm alkyl, C3-C6 cycloalkyl, or halo;

each of R³, R⁴, R^s, R⁶, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹ ’, R¹² and R¹³ is independently hydrogen, halo, CiC_i( alky, hydroxyl, or -CH2OR²²;

*7

R is hydrogen or Cm alkyl;

each of R²⁰ and R²¹ is independently Na*, Li⁺, K⁺, hydrogen, or Cm alkyl;

each R²² is independently hydrogen, C|-C₍, alkyl, C3-C6 cycloalkyl, phenyl or benzyl; or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, single stereoisomer, mixture of stereoisomers, or tautomer thereof.

[0015] Also provided is a compound offormula II

wherein:

R¹ is hydrogen, -CH₂OH, -CH₂OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), or optionally substituted Cm alkyl;

R² is hydrogen, halo, optionally substituted lower Cm alkyl, or optionally substituted cycloalkyl;

each of R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹² and R¹³ is independently hydrogen, hydroxyl, -OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), -CH2OH, -CH2OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), aminocarbonyl, acyl, acylamino, -O-(C| to C6-alkyl)-O-(Ci to C&-alkyl), cyano, halo, SO2NR²⁴R^2S, -NR²⁴R²⁵, optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted alkylene, optionally substituted alkynyl, optionally substituted alkoxy, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted aryl, optionally substituted aralkyl, optionally substituted heteroaryl, optionally substituted heteroaralkyl, or optionally substituted heterocyclyl;

R⁷ is hydrogen or optionally substituted Cm alkyl;

ι ι t 2Ω each of R and R is independently Na , Li , K , hydrogen, Cm alkyl; or R and

7+ 7+ 7+

R can be combined to represent a single divalent cation Zn , Ca , or Mg .

In certain aspects, the disclosure provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of the disclosure (e.g. a compound of Formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, ester, prodrug, stereoisomer, solvaté, or hydrate thereof and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier).

[0016] In certain aspects, is provided methods of using the compounds of Formula (1) in the treatment of addiction to a dopamine-producing agent. The method comprises administering to a mammal in need thereof a therapeutically effective dose of a compound of Formula (I). Such diseases include, but are not Iimited to, the treatment of dependency upon cocaïne, opiates, amphétamines, nicotine, and alcohol.

[0017] Compounds of Formula (I), (la), (Ib) or (II) include, but are not Iimited to:

2.6- dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy)-7V-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl) benzyl)benzamide (i);

2.6- dichloro-7V-[4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydro-pyridin-4-yl)-benzyl]-benzamide (2);

2- chloro-3 -fluoro-A^r-(4-(2-oxo -1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzami de (3 ) ;

2-chloro-6-methyl-?/-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (4);

2.6- dimethyl-7V-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (5);

2.6- dichloroJV-[4-(6-methyl-2-oxo-l,2-dihydro-pyridin-4-yl)-benzyl]-benzamide (6); 2-chloro-3,6-difluoro-7V-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (7);

2.6- dichloro-7Y-(3-methyl-4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (8);

2.6- dichloro-7V-(4-(l-methyl-2-oxo-l,2~dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (9);

2.6- difluoro-JV-(4-(2-oxO“l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyi)benzamide (10);

2-chloro-6-fluoro-jV-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (11);

2.6- dichloro JV-(2 -fluoro-4-(2 -oxo -1,2-dihydropyridi n-4-y l)benzyl)benzam ide ( 12);

2.6- dichloro-?/-(4-(5-fluoro-2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (13); and phosphoric acid mono-(4 - {4-[ (2,6- di chloro-benzoyl ami no )-m ethyl ]-phenyl }-2-oxo-2H -pyridin-l-ylmethyl) ester (14); or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, ester, single stereoisomer, mixture of stereoisomers, or tautomer thereof.

[0018] Additional embodiments are described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0019] Before the présent compositions and methods are described, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the particular compounds, compositions, méthodologies, protocole, cell lines, assays, and reagents described, as these may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is intended to describe particular embodiments, and is in no way intended to limit the scope as set forth in the appended claims.

Detailed Description of Figures

Figure 1 shows significant réduction (p <0.05 versus vehicle) in alcohol self administration based on lever presses.

Figure 2 is a graphical représentation of cocaïne eue replacement study design.

Figure 3 shows significant inhibition of cocaïne eue reinstatement in rats orally administered a compound of the invention compared to vehicle.

Figure 4 shows significant inhibition of cocaïne eue reinstatement in rats oraily administered a compound of the invention compared to vehicle.

Figure 5 shows significantly reduced nicotine self administration in rats oraily administered a compound of the invention compared to vehicle.

Figure 6 shows significantly reduced nicotine self administration in rats oraily administered a compound of the invention compared to vehicle.

Figure 7 shows significantly reduced nicotine self administration in rats chronically administered oral doses of a compound of the invention compared to vehicle.

Définitions and General Parameters [0020] As used in the présent spécification, the following words and phrases are generally intended to hâve the meanings as set forth below, except to the extent that the context in which they are used ïndicates otherwise.

[00211 The term “alkyl’’ refers to a monoradical branched or unbranched saturated hydrocarbon chain having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms. This tenu is exemplified by groups such as methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, t-butyl, n-hexyl, n-decyl, tetradecyl, and the like.

[0022] The term “substituted alkyl” refers to:

1) an alkyl group as defined above, having 1,2, 3, 4 or 5 substituents, (typically 1, 2, or 3 substituents) selected from the group consisting of alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, keto, thiocarbonyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, arylthio, heteroarylthio, heterocyclylthio, thiol, alkylthio, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, aminosulfonyl, amînocarbonylamino, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclyl, heterocyclyloxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro, -SO-alkyl, -SO-aryl,-SOheteroaryl, -SCb-alkyl, S Cl·-aryl and -SCb-heteroaryl. Unless otherwise constrained by the définition, ail substituents may optionally be further substituted by 1, 2, or 3 substituents chosen from alkyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, aminocarbonyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, halogen, CF3, amino, substituted amino, cyano, and -S(O)_nR, where R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0, l or 2; or

2) an alkyl group as defined above that is interrupted by 1-10 atoms (e.g. I, 2, 3,4, or 5 atoms) independently chosen from oxygen, sulfur and NR^a, where R° is chosen from hydrogen, alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclyl. Ail substituents may be optionally further substituted by alkyl, alkoxy, halogen, CF3, amino, substituted amino, cyano, or -S(O)_nR, in which R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0, 1 or 2; or

3) an alkyl group as defined above that has both 1,2, 3,4 or 5 substituents as defined above and is also interrupted by 1-10 atoms (e.g. 1,2, 3,4, or 5 atoms) as defined above.

[0023] The term “lower alkyl” refers to a monoradical branched or unbranched saturated hydrocarbon chain having 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 carbon atoms. This term is exemplified by groups such as methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, t-butyl, n-hexyl, and the like.

[0024] The term “substituted lower alkyl” refers to lower alkyl as defined above having I to 5 substituents (typically 1,2, or 3 substituents), as defined for substituted alkyl, or a lower alkyl group as defined above that is interrupted by 1,2, 3,4, or 5 atoms as defined for substituted alkyl, or a lower alkyl group as defined above that has both 1, 2,3,4 or 5 substituents as defined above and is also interrupted by 1,2, 3,4, or 5 atoms as defined above.

[0025] The term “alkylene” refers to a diradical of a branched or unbranched saturated hydrocarbon chain, typically having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms (e.g. 1-10 carbon atoms, or 1, 2,3,4,5 or 6 carbon atoms). This term is exemplified by groups such as methylene (-CH2-), ethylene (-CH2CH2-), the propylene isomers (e.g., -CH2CH2CH2- and-CH(CH3)CH2-), and the like.

[0026] The term “lower alkylene” refers to a diradical of a branched or unbranched saturated hydrocarbon chain, typically having 1,2, 3,4, 5, or 6 carbon atoms.

[0027] The term “substituted alkylene” refers to:

(1) an alkylene group as defined above having 1, 2,3,4, or 5 substituents (typically 1,

2, or 3 substituents) selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, cycioalkyl, cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, keto, thiocarbonyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, arylthio, heteroarylthîo, heterocyclylthio, thiol, alkylthio, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, aminosulfonyl, aminocarbonylamino, heteroaryioxy, heterocyclyl, heterocyclyloxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro, -SO-alkyl, -SO-aryl,-SOheteroaryl, -SO2-alkyl, SO₂-aryl and -SOî-heteroaryl. Unless otherwise constrained by the définition, ail substituents may optionally be further substituted by 1,2, or 3 substituents chosen from alkyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, aminocarbonyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, halogen, CF3, amino, substituted amino, cyano, and -S(O)_nR, where R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0,1 or 2; or (2) an alkylene group as defined above that is interrupted by 1-10 groups (e.g. 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 groups) independently chosen from -O-, -S-, sulfonyl, -C(O)-, -C(O)O-, C(O)N-, and -NR“, where R“ is chosen from hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, cycioalkyl, cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclyl; or (3) an alkylene group as defined above that has both 1,2,3,4 or 5 substituents as defined above and is also interrupted by 1-10 groups as defined above. Examples of substituted alkylenes are chloromethylene (-CH(Cl)-), aminoethylene (-CH(NH2)CH2), methylaminoethylene (-CH(NHMe)CH₂-), 2-carboxypropylene isomers(CH₂CH(CO₂H)CH2-), ethoxyethyl (-CH2CH2O-CH2CH2-), ethylmethylaminoethyl (CH2CH2-N(CH3)-CH2CH2-), 1 -ethoxy-2-(2-ethoxy-ethoxy)ethane (-CH2CH2OCH₂CH2-OCH₂CH₂-OCH₂CH2-), and the like.

[0028] The term “aralkyl” refers to an aryl group covalently linked to an alkylene group, where aryl and alkylene are defined herein. “Optionally substituted aralkyl” refers to an optionally substituted aryl group covalently linked to an optionally substituted alkylene group. Such aralkyl groups are exemplified by benzyl, phenylethyl, 3(4-methoxyphenyl)propyl, and the like.

[0029] The term “aralkyloxy” refers to the group -O-aralkyl. “Optionally substituted aralkyloxy” refers to an optionally substituted aralkyl group covalently linked to an optionally substituted alkylene group. Such aralkyl groups are exemplified by benzyloxy, phenylethyloxy, and the like.

[0030] The term “alkoxy” refers to the group R-O-, where R is optionally substituted alkyl or optionally substituted cycioalkyl, or R is a group -Y-Z, in which Y is optionally substituted alkylene and Z is optionally substituted alkenyl, optionally substituted alkynyl; or optionally substituted cycloalkenyl, where alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl and cycloalkenyl are as defined herein. Typical alkoxy groups are alkyl-O- and include, by way of example, methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, iso-propoxy, n-butoxy, tert-butoxy, sec-butoxy, n-pentoxy, nhexyloxy, l ,2-dimethylbutoxy, and the like.

[00311 The term “lower alkoxy” refers to the group R-O- in which R is optionally substituted lower alkyl as defined above. This term is exemplified by groups such as methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, iso-propoxy, n-butoxy, iso-butoxy, t-butoxy, n-hexyloxy, and the like.

[0032] The term “alkylthio” refers to the group R-S-, where R is as defined for alkoxy.

[0033] The term “alkenyl” refers to a monoradical of a branched or unbranched unsaturated hydrocarbon group typically having from 2 to 20 carbon atoms (more typically from 2 to 10 carbon atoms, e.g. 2 to 6 carbon atoms) and having from 1 to 6 carbon-carbon double bonds, e.g. 1, 2, or 3 carbon-carbon double bonds. Typical alkenyl groups include ethenyl (or vinyl,

1. e. -CH=CH2), 1-propylene (or allyl, -CH2CH=CH2), isopropylene (-C(CH₃)=CH2), bicyclo[2.2.1]heptene, and the like. In the event that alkenyl is attached to nitrogen, the double bond cannot be alpha to the nitrogen.

[0034] The term “lower alkenyl” refers to alkenyl as defined above having from 2 to 6 carbon atoms.

[0035] The term “substituted alkenyl” refers to an alkenyl group as defined above having 1,

2, 3, 4 or 5 substituents (typically 1, 2, or 3 substituents), selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, keto, thiocarbonyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, arylthio, heteroarylthio, heterocyclylthio, thiol, alkylthio, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, aminosulfonyl, aminocarbonylamino, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclyl, heterocyclooxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro, -SO-alkyl, -SO-aryl,-SO-heteroaryl, SO₂-alkyl, SO₂-aryl and -SO₂-heteroaryl. Unless otherwise constrained by the définition, ail substituents may optionally be further substituted by 1,2, or 3 substituents chosen from alkyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, aminocarbonyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, halogen, CF₃, amino, substituted amino, cyano, and -S(O)_nR, where R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0, 1 or 2.

[0036] The term “alkynyl” refers to a monoradical of an unsaturated hydrocarbon, typically having from 2 to 20 carbon atoms (more typically from 2 to 10 carbon atoms, e.g. 2 to 6 carbon atoms) and having from l to 6 carbon-carbon triple bonds e.g. 1, 2, or 3 carboncarbon triple bonds. Typical alkynyl groups include ethynyl (-C^Cll), propargyl (or propynyl, -OCCHj), and the like. In the event that alkynyl is attached to nitrogen, the triple bond cannot be alpha to the nitrogen.

[0037] The term “substituted alkynyl” refers to an alkynyl group as defined above having 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 substituents (typically 1, 2, or 3 substituents), selected from the group consisting of alkyi, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, keto, thiocarbonyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, arylthio, heteroarylthio, heterocyclylthio, thiol, alkylthio, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, aminosulfonyl, aminocarbonylamino, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclyl, heterocyclyloxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro, -SO-alkyl, -SO-aryl,-SO-heteroaryl, SÜ2-alkyl, SC>2-aryl and -SCh-heteroaryl. Unless otherwise constrained by the définition, ail substituents may optionally be further substituted by 1, 2, or 3 substituents chosen from alkyi, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, aminocarbonyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, halogen, CF3, amino, substituted amino, cyano, and -S(O)_nR, where R is alkyi, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0,1 or 2.

[0038] The term “aminocarbonyl” refers to the group -C(O)NRR where each R is independently hydrogen, alkyi, cycloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl or where both R groups are joined to form a heterocyclic group (e.g., morpholino). Unless otherwise constrained by the définition, ail substituents may optionally be further substituted by I, 2, or 3 substituents chosen from alkyi, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, aminocarbonyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, halogen, CF3, amino, substituted amino, cyano, and ~S(O)_nR, where R is alkyi, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0,1 or 2.

J0039] The term “ester” or “carboxyester” refers to the group -C(O)OR, where R is alkyi, cycloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclyl, which may be optionally further substituted by alkyi, alkoxy, halogen, CF3, amino, substituted amino, cyano, or-S(O)_nR^a, in which R^a is alkyi, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0, 1 or 2.

[0040] The term “acylamino” refers to the group -NRC(O)R where each R is independently hydrogen, alkyi, aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclyl. Ail substituents may be optionally further substituted by alkyi, alkoxy, halogen, CF3, amino, substituted amino, cyano, or —S(O)_nR, in which R is alkyi, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0, 1 or 2.

[0041] The term “acyloxy” refers to the groups -OC(O)-alkyl, -OC(O)-cycloalkyl, -0C(O)-aryl, -OC(O)-heteroaryl, and -OC(O)-heterocyclyl. Unless otherwise constrained by the définition, all substituents may optionally be further substituted by l, 2, or 3 substituents chosen from alkyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, aminocarbonyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, halogen, CFj, amino, substituted amino, cyano, and -S(O)_nR, where R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0,1 or 2.

[0042] The term “aryl” refers to an aromatic carbocyclic group of 6 to 20 carbon atoms having a single ring (e.g., phenyl) or multiple rings (e.g., biphenyl), or multiple condensed (fused) rings (e.g., naphthyl, fluorenyl, and anthryl). Typical aryls include phenyl, fluorenyl, naphthyl, anthryl, and the like.

[0043] Unless otherwîse constrained by the définition for the aryl substituent, such aryl groups can optionally be substituted with 1,2, 3,4 or 5 substituents (typically 1,2, or 3 substituents), selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, keto, thiocarbonyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, arylthio, heteroarylthio, heterocyclylthio, thiol, alkylthio, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, aminosulfonyl, aminocarbonylamino, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclyl, heterocyclyloxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro, -SO-alkyl, -SO-aryl,-SO-heteroaryl, SCL-alkyl, SO₂-aryl and -SO₂-heteroaryl. Unless otherwise constrained by the définition, all substituents may optionally be further substituted by 1,2, or 3 substituents chosen from alkyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, aminocarbonyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, halogen, CF₃, amino, substituted amino, cyano, and ~S(O)_nR, where R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0, 1 or 2.

[0044] The term “aryloxy” refers to the group aryl-O- wherein the aryl group is as defined above, and includes optionally substituted aryl groups as also defined above. The term “arylthio” refers to the group R-S-, where R is as defined for aryl.

[0045] The term “amino” refers to the group -NH₂.

[0046] The term “substituted amino” refers to the group -NRR where each R is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclyl provided that both R groups are not hydrogen, or a group -Y-Z, in which Y is optionally substituted alkylene and Z is alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, or alkynyl. Unless otherwise constrained by the définition, all substituents may optionally be further substituted by 1,2, or 3 substituents chosen from alkyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, aminocarbonyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, halogen, CF₃, amino, substituted amino, cyano, and -S(O)_nR, where R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0, 1 or 2.

J0047J The term “carboxyalkyl” refers to the groups -C(O)O-alkyl, -C(O)O-cycloalkyl, where alkyl and cycloalkyl are as defined herein, and may be optionally further substituted by alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, halogen, CF3, amino, substituted amino, cyano, or-S(O)_nR, in which R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0, l or 2.

[0048] The term “cycloalkyl” refers to cyclic alkyl groups of from 3 to 20 carbon atoms having a single cyclic ring or multiple condensed rings. Such cycloalkyl groups include, by way of example, single ring structures such as cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclooctyl, and the like, or multiple ring structures such as adamantanyl, and bîcyclo[2.2.1]heptane, or cyclic alkyl groups to which is fused an aryl group, for example indan, and the like.

[0049] The term “cycloalkenyl” refers to cyclic alkyl groups of from 3 to 20 carbon atoms having a single cyclic ring or multiple condensed rings and having at least one double bond and preferably from l to 2 double bonds.

[0050] The terms “substituted cycloalkyl” and “susbstituted cycloalkenyl” refer to cycloalkyl or cycloalkenyl groups having 1, 2, 3,4 or 5 substituents (typically 1,2, or 3 substituents), selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, keto, thiocarbonyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, arylthio, heteroarylthio, heterocyclylthio, thiol, alkylthio, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, aminosulfonyl, aminocarbonyl ami no, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclyl, heterocyclyloxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro, -SO-alkyl, -SO-aryl,-SO-heteroaryl, SO₂-alkyl, SO₂-aryl and -SO₂-heteroaryl. The term “substituted cycloalkyl” also includes cycloalkyl groups wherein one or more of the annular carbon atoms of the cycloalkyl group is a carbonyl group (i.e. an oxygen atom is oxo to the ring). Unless otherwise constratned by the définition, ail substituents may optionally be further substituted by 1,2, or 3 substituents chosen from alkyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, aminocarbonyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, halogen, CF3, amino, substituted amino, cyano, and -S(O)_nR, where R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0, 1 or 2.

[0051] The term “halogen” or “halo” refers to fluoro, bromo, chloro, and iodo.

[0052] The term “acyl” dénotés a group -C(O)R, in which R is hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted heterocyclyl, optionally substituted aryl, and optionally substituted heteroaryl.

[0053] The term “alkoxycarbonylamino” refers to a group -NHC(O)OR in which R is optionally substituted alkyl.

[0054] The term “alkyl amine” refers to R-NH₂ in which R is optionally substituted alkyl.

[0055] The term “dialkyl amine” refers to R-NHR in which each R is independently an optionally substituted alkyl.

[0056] The term “trialkyl amine” refers to NR3 in which R each R is independently an optionally substituted alkyl.

® Θ [0057] The term “azido” refers to a group N=N=N .

[0058] The term “hydroxyl” or “hydroxyl” refers to a group -OH.

[0059] The term “arylthio” refers to the group -S-aryl.

[0060] The term “heterocyclylthio” refers to the group -S-heterocyclyl.

[0061] The term “alkylthio” refers to the group -S-alkyl.

[0062] The term “aminosulfonyl” refers to the group -SO2NRR, wherein each R is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclyl. Unless otherwise constrained by the définition, ail substituents may optionally be further substituted by 1,2, or 3 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, keto, thiocarbonyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, arylthio, heteroarylthio, heterocyclylthio, thiol, alkylthio, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, aminosulfonyl, aminocarbonylamino, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclyl, heterocyclyloxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro, -SO-alkyl, -SO-aryl,-SOheteroaryl, -SOî-alkyl, SO₂-aryl and -SOi-heteroaryl.

[0063] The term “aminocarbonylamino” refers to the group -NR^cC(O)NRR, wherein R^c is hydrogen or alkyl and each R is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclyl. Unless otherwise constrained by the définition, ail substituents may optionally be further substituted by 1,2, or 3 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, keto, thiocarbonyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, arylthio, heteroarylthio, heterocyclylthio, thiol, alkylthio, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, aminosulfonyl, aminocarbonylamino, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclyl, heterocyclooxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro, -SO-alkyl, -SO-aryl,-SO-heteroaryl, -SCh-alkyl, SCL-aryl and -SO2heteroaryl.

[0064] The term “heterocyclooxy” refers to the group -O-heterocyclyl.

[0065] The term “alkoxyamino” refers to the group -NHOR in which R is optionally substituted alkyl.

[0066] The term “hydroxyamino” refers to the group -NHOH.

[0067] The term “heteroaryl” refers to a group comprising single or multiple rings comprising 1 to 15 carbon atoms and 1 to 4 heteroatoms selected from oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur within at least one ring. The term “heteroaryl” is generic to the terms “aromatic heteroaryl” and “partially saturated heteroaryl”. The tenn “aromatic heteroaryl refera to a heteroaryl in which at least one ring is aromatic. Examples of aromatic heteroaryls include pyrrole, thiophene, pyridine, quinoline, pteridine. The term “partially saturated heteroaryl” refera to a heteroaryl having a structure équivalent to an underlying aromatic heteroaryl which has had one or more double bonds in an aromatic ring of the underlying aromatic heteroaryl saturated. Examples of partially saturated heteroaryls include dihydropyrrole, dihydropyridine, chroman, and the like.

[0068] Unless otherwise constrained by the définition for the heteroaryl substituent, such heteroaryl groupe can be optionally substituted with 1 to 5 substituents (typically 1, 2, or 3 substituents) selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, keto, thiocarbonyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl (an alkyl ester), arylthio, heteroaryl, heteroarylthio, heterocyclylthio, thiol, alkylthio, aryl, aryloxy, aralkyl, heteroaryl, aminosulfonyl, aminocarbonylamino, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclyl, heterocyclooxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro, -SO-alkyl, -SO-aryl,-SO-heteroaryl, -SCh-alkyl, S O?-aryl and -SCh-heteroaryl. Unless otherwise constrained by the définition, ail substituents may optionally be further substituted by 1, 2, or 3 substituents chosen from alkyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, aminocarbonyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, halogen, CF3, amino, substituted amino, cyano, and -S(O)_nR, where R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0,1 or 2. Such heteroaryl groups can hâve a single ring (e.g., pyridyl or furyl) or multiple condensed rings (e.g., îndolizinyl, benzothiazole, or benzothienyl). Examples of nitrogen heterocyclyls and heteroaryls include, but are not limited to, pyrrole, imidazole, pyrazole, pyridine, pyrazine, pyrimidine, pyridazine, indolizine, isoindole, indole, indazole, purine, quinolizine, isoquinoline, quinoline, phthalazine, naphthylpyridine, quinoxaline, quinazoline, cinnoline, pteridine, carbazole, carboline, phenanthridine, acridine, phenanthroline, isothiazole, phenazine, isoxazole, phenoxazine, phenothiazine, imidazolidine, imidazoline, and the like as well as N-alkoxy-nitrogen containing heteroaryl compounds.

[0069] The term “heteroaryloxy” refers to the group heteroaryl-O-.

[0070] The term “heterocyclyl,” “heterocycle,” or “heterocyclîc” refers to a monoradical saturated group having a single ring or multiple condensed rings, having from l to 40 carbon atoms and from l to 10 hetero atoms, preferably 1 to 4 heteroatoms, selected from nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, and/or oxygen within the ring.

[0071] Unless otherwise constrained by the définition for the heterocyclîc substituent, such heterocyclîc groups can be optionally substituted with 1 to 5 substituents (typically 1, 2, or 3 substituents), selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminocarbonyl, alkoxycarbonylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, keto, thiocarbonyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, arylthîo, heteroarylthio, heterocyclylthio, thiol, alkylthio, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, aminosulfonyl, aminocarbonylamino, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclyl, heterocyclooxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro, -SO-alkyl, -SO-aryl,-SO-heteroaryl, SO2-alkyl, SCh-aryl and -SOj-hetcroaryl. Unless otherwise constrained by the définition, ail substituents may optionally be further substituted by 1,2, or 3 substituents chosen from alkyl, carboxy, carboxyalkyl, aminocarbonyl, hydroxy, alkoxy, halogen, CF₃, amino, substituted amino, cyano, and -S(O)_nR, where R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl and n is 0, 1 or 2. Preferred heterocyclics include tetrahydrofuranyl, morpholino, piperidinyl, and the like.

[0072] The term “thiol” refers to the group -SH.

[0073] The term “substituted alkylthio” refers to the group -S-substituted alkyl.

[0074] The term “heteroarylthiol” refers to the group -S-heteroaryl wherein the heteroaryl group is as defined above including optionally substituted heteroaryl groups as also defined above.

[0075] The term “sulfoxide” refers to a group -S(O)R, in which R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl. “Substituted sulfoxide” refers to a group -S(O)R, in which R is substituted alkyl, substituted aryl, or substituted heteroaryl, as defined herein.

|0076J The term “sulfone” refers to a group -S(O)₂R, in which R is alkyl, aryl, or heteroaryl. “Substituted sulfone” refers to a group -S(O)2R, in which R is substituted alkyl, substituted aryl, or substituted heteroaryl, as defîned herein.

[0077] The term “keto” or “oxo” refers to a group -C(O)-.

[0078] The term “thiocarbonyl” refers to a group -C(S)-.

[0079] The term “carboxy” refers to a group -C(O)-OH.

[0080] “Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances in which it does not.

[0081] A “substituted” group includes embodiments in which a monoradical substituent is bound to a single atom of the substituted group (e.g. forming a branch), and also includes embodiments in which the substituent may be a diradical bridging group bound to two adjacent atoms of the substituted group, thereby forming a fused ring on the substituted group.

[0082] Where a given group (moiety) is described herein as being attached to a second group and the site of attachment is not explicit, the given group may be attached at any available site of the given group to any available site of the second group. For example, a “lower alkyl-substituted phenyl”, where the attachment sites are not explicit, may hâve any available site of the lower alkyl group attached to any available site of the phenyl group. In this regard, an “available site” is a site of the group at which a hydrogen of the group may be replaced with a substituent.

[0083] A compound of a given Formula (e.g. the “compound of Formula (1)”) is intended to encompass the compounds of the disclosure, and the pharmaceutîcally acceptable salts, pharmaceutically acceptable esters, hydrates, polymorphe, and prodrugs of such compounds. Additionally, the compounds of the disclosure may possess one or more asymmetric centers, and can be produced as a racemic mixture or as indîvidual enantiomers or diastereoisomers. The number of stereoisomers présent in any given compound of a given Formula dépends upon the number of asymmetric centers présent (there are 2 stereoisomers possible where n is the number of asymmetric centers). The individual stereoisomers may be obtained by resolving a racemic or non-racemic mixture of an intermediate at some appropriate stage of the synthesis, or by resolution of the compound by conventional means. The individual stereoisomers (including individual enantiomers and diastereoisomers) as well as racemic and non-racemic mixtures of stereoisomers are encompassed within the scope of the présent invention, ail of which are intended to be depicted by the structures of this spécification unless otherwise specifically indicated.

[0084] “Isomers” are different compounds that hâve the same molecular formula. Isomers include stereoisomers, enantiomers, and diastereomers.

[0085] “Stereoisomers” are isomers that differ only in the way the atoms are arranged in space.

[0086] “Enantiomers” are a pair of stereoisomers that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other. A 1:1 mixture of a pair of enantiomers is a “racemic” mixture. The term (±) is used to designate a racemic mixture where appropriate.

[0087] “Diastereoisomers” are stereoisomers that hâve at least two asymmetric atoms, but which are not mirror-images of each other.

[0088] The absolute stereochemistry is specifïed according to the Cahn Ingold Prelog R S System. When the compound is a pure enantiomer the stereochemistry at each chiral carbon may be specifïed by either R or S. Resolved compounds whose absolute configuration is unknown are designated (+) or (-) depending on the direction (dextro- or laevorotary) that they rotate the plane of polarized light at the wavelength of the sodium D line.

[0089] Some of the compounds exist as tautomeric isomers. Tautomeric isomers are in equilibrium with one another. For example, amide containing compounds may exist in equilibrium with imîdic acid tautomers. Regardless of which tautomer is shown, and regardless of the nature of the equilibrium among tautomers, the compounds are understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to comprise both amide and imîdic acid tautomers. Thus, the amide containing compounds are understood to include their imidic acid tautomers. Likewise, the imidic acid containing compounds are understood to include their amide tautomers. Non-limiting examples of amide-comprising and imidic acid-comprising tautomers are shown below:

ΌΗ (0090] The term “therapeutically effective amount” refers to an amount that is sufficient to effect treatment, as defined below, when administered to a mammal in need of such treatment. The therapeutically effective amount will vary depending upon the subject and disease condition being treated, the weight and âge of the subject, the severity of the disease condition, the manner of administration and the like, which can readily be determined by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0091] The term “polymorph” refers to different crystal structures of a crystalline compound. The different polymorphe may resuit from différences in crystal packing (packîng polymorphism) or différences in packing between different conformera of the same molécule (conformational polymorphism).

[0092] The term “solvaté” refers to a complex formed by the combining of a compound of Formula (1) and a solvent.

[0093] The term “hydrate” refers to tlie complex formed by the combining of a compound of Formula (I) and water.

[0094] The term “prodrug” refera to a compound of Formula (I) that includes chemical groups which, in vivo, can be converted and/or can be split off from the remainder of the molécule to provide for the active drug, a pharmaceutically acceptable sait thereof, or a biologically active métabolite thereof.

[0095] Any formula or structure given herein, including Formula (I) compounds, is also intended to represent unlabeled forms as well as isotopically labeled forms of the compounds. Isotopically labeled compounds hâve structures depicted by the formulas given herein except that one or more atoms are replaced by an atom having a selected atomic mass or mass nurnber. Examples of isotopes that can be incorporated into compounds of the invention include isotopes of hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorous, fluorine, and chlorine, such as, but not limited to ²H (deuterium, D), ³H (tritium),^{1 l}C, ^l3C, ^l4C, ^l5N, ^Î8F, ^3tP, ³²P, ³⁵S, ³⁶C1, and ¹²⁵I. Various isotopically labeled compounds of the présent invention, for example those into which radioactive isotopes such as ³H, ¹³C, and ^l4C are incorporated. Such isotopically labelled compounds may be useful in metabolic studies, reaction kinetic studies, détection or imaging techniques, such as positron émission tomography (PET) or single-photon émission computed tomography (SPECT) including drug or substrate tissue distribution assays, or in radioactive treatment of patients.

[0096] Deuterium labelled or substituted therapeutic compounds of the invention may hâve improved DMPK (drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics) properties, relating to distribution, metabolism, and excrétion (ADME). Substitution with heavier isotopes such as deuterium may afford certain therapeutic advantages resulting from greater metabolic stability, for example increased in vivo half-life or reduced dosage requirements. An ^l8F labeled compound may be useful for PET or SPECT studies. Isotopically labeled compounds of this invention and prodrugs thereof can generally be prepared by carrying out the procedures disclosed in the schemes or in the examples and préparations described below by substîtuting a readily available isotopically labeled reagent for a non-isotopically labeled reagent, Further, substitution with heavîer isotopes, particularly deuterium (i.e„ H or D) may afford certain therapeutic advantages resulting from greater metabolic stability, for example increased in vivo half-life or reduced dosage requirements or an improvement in therapeutic index. It is understood that deuterium in this context is regarded as a substituent in the compound of the Formula (I).

[0097] The concentration of such a heavier isotope, specifically deuterium, may be defined by an isotopic enrichment factor. In the compounds of this invention any atom not specifically designated as a particular isotope is meant to represent any stable isotope of that atom. Unless otherwise stated, when a position is designated specifically as H or hydrogen, the position is understood to hâve hydrogen at its natural abundance isotopic composition. Accordingly, in the compounds of this invention any atom specifically designated as a deuterium (D) is meant to represent deuterium.

[0098] The term “treatmenf ’ or “treating” means any administration of a compound of the invention to a mammal having a disease or susceptible to a disease for purposes including:

(i) preventing the disease, that is, causing the clinical symptoms of the disease not to develop;

(ii) inhibiting the disease, that is, arresting the development of clinical symptoms; and/or (iii) relieving the disease, i.e. causing the régression of clinical symptoms.

[0099] In many cases, the compounds of this disclosure are capable of forming acid and/or base salts by virtue of the presence of amino and/or carboxyl groups or groups sïmilar thereto.

The term “dopamine producing agents” as used herein includes nicotine, alcohol, amphetamnines, other drugs of addiction and foods, especially sugary foods. Thus diseases related to dopamine producing agents include addiction to alcohol, cocaïne, marijuana, nicotine, food and sequela thereof e.g. obesity.

loioo] The term “pharmaceutically acceptable sait” of a given compound refers to salts that retain the biological effectiveness and properties of the given compound, and which are not biologically or otherwise undesirable. Pharmaceutically acceptable base addition salts can be prepared from inorganic and organic bases. Salts derived from inorganic bases inciude, by way of example only, sodium, potassium, lithium, ammonium, calcium and magnésium salts. Salts derived from organic bases inciude, but are not limited to, salts of primary, secondary and tertiary amines, such as alkyl amines, dialkyl amines, trialkyl amines, substituted alkyl amines, difsubstituted alkyl) amines, tri(substituted alkyl) amines, alkenyl amines, dialkenyl amines, trialkenyl amines, substituted alkenyl amines, di(substituted alkenyl) amines, tri(substituted alkenyl) amines, cycloalkyl amines, di(cycloalkyl) amines, tri(cycloalkyl) amines, substituted cycloalkyl amines, disubstituted cycloalkyl amine, trisubstituted cycloalkyl amines, cycloalkenyl amines, di(cycloalkenyl) amines, tri(cycloalkenyl) amines, substituted cycloalkenyl amines, disubstituted cycloalkenyl amine, trisubstituted cycloalkenyl amines, aryl amines, diaryl amines, triaryl amines, heteroaryl amines, diheteroaryl amines, triheteroaryl amines, heterocyclic amines, diheterocyclic amines, triheterocyclic amines, mixed di- and tri-amines where at least two of the substituents on the amine are different and are selected from the group consisting of alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, substituted cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclic, and the like. Also included are amines where the two or three substituents, together with the amino nitrogen, form a heterocyclic or heteroaryl group.

[0101] Spécifie examples of suitable amines inciude, by way of example only, isopropylamine, trimethyl amine, diethyl amine, tri(iso-propyl) amine, tri(n-propyl) amine, ethanolamine, 2-dimethylaminoethanol, tromethamine, lysine, arginine, histidine, caffeine, procaine, hydrabamine, choline, betaine, ethylenediamine, glucosamine, N-alkylglucamines, theobromine, purines, piperazine, piperidine, morpholine, N-ethylpi péri dîne, and the like.

[0102] Pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts may be prepared from inorganic and organic acids. Salts derived from inorganic acids inciude hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, and the like. Salts derived from organic acids inciude acetic acid, propionic acid, glycolic acid, pyruvic acid, oxalic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, cinnamic acid, mandelic acid, methanesulfonic acid, ethanesulfonic acid, p-toluene-sulfonic acid, salicylic acid, and the like.

[0103] As used herein, “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” or “pharmaceutically acceptable excipient” includes any and ail solvents, dispersion media, coatings, antibacterial and antifungal agents, isotonie and absorption delaying agents and the like. The use of such media and agents for pharmaceutically active substances is well known in the art. Except insofar as any conventional media or agent is incompatible with the active ingrédient, its use in the therapeutic compositions is contemplated. Supplementary active ingrédients can also be incorporated into the compositions.

[0104] Where a given group (moiety) is described herein as being attached to a second group and the site of attachment is not explicit, the given group may be attached at any available site of the given group to any available site of the second group. For example, a “lower alkyl-substituted phenyl”, where the attachment sites are not explicit, may hâve any available site of the lower alkyl group attached to any available site of the phenyl group. In this regard, an “available site” is a site of the group at which a hydrogen of the group may be replaced with a substituent.

[0105] It is understood that in ail substituted groups defined above, polymers arrived at by defining substituents with further substituents to themselves (e.g., substituted aryl having a substituted aryl group as a substituent which is itself substituted with a substituted aryl group, etc.) are not intended for inclusion herein. Also not included are infinité numbers of substituents, whether the substituents are the same or different. In such cases, the maximum number of such substituents is three. Each of the above définitions is thus constrained by a limitation that, for example, substituted aryl groups are limited to -substituted aryl(substituted aryl)-substituted aryl.

Compounds of Formula (I) [0106] Nomenclature: The naming and numbering of the compounds is illustrated with a représentative compound (2):

(2) namely: 2,6-dichloro-N-[4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydro-pyridin-4-yl)-benzyl] -benzamide.

[0107J Accordingly, in certain aspects, is provided compounds of Formula (I):

R⁹ O R⁶

O

Formula (ia) wherein:

R‘ is hydrogen, -CH₂OH, -CH₂OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), or optionally substituted Cm alkyl;

R² is hydrogen, -CN, halo, optionally substituted lower Cm alkyl, or cycloalkyl; each of R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹² and R¹³ is independently hydrogen, hydroxyl, aminocarbonyl, acyl, acylamino, -O-(Ci to Cû-alkyl)-O-(Ci to Cgalkyl), cyano, halo, -SO2NR²⁴R²⁵, -NR²⁴R²⁵t optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted alkylene, optionally substituted alkynyl, optionally substituted alkoxy, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted aryl, optionally substituted aralkyl, optionally substituted heteroaryl, optionally substituted heteroaralkyl, or optionally substituted heterocyclyl;

wherein said optionally substituted alkyl, alkylene, alkynyl, alkoxy, cycloalkyl, aryl, aralkyl, heteroaryl, heteroaralkyl, or heterocyclyl are optionally substituted with one, two or three substituents independently selected from the group consisting of halo, -NO₂, phenyl, heterocyclyl, heteroaryl, Cm alkyl, cycloalkyl, -N(R²⁴)(R²⁵), -C(O)-R²⁴, -C(O)-OR²⁴, -C(O)-N(R²⁴)(R²⁵), -CN and -O-R²⁴;

R is hydrogen or optionally substituted Ci„6 alkyl;

each of R²⁰ and R²¹ is independently Na⁺, Li⁺, K⁺, hydrogen, or C|-6 alkyl; or R²⁰ and R can be combined to represent a single divalent cation Zn , Ca , or Mg“ ;

each of R²² and R²³ is independently optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted alkoxy, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted aryl, or —NR²⁴R²⁵; and each of R²⁴ and R²⁵ is independently hydrogen or C|.& alkyl or when combined together with the nitrogen to which they are attached form a heterocycle; or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, ester, or tautomer thereof.

[0108] In certain embodiments, R¹ is hydrogen. In certain embodiments, R¹ is Ci_6 alkyl.

In certain embodiments, R¹ is methyl. In certain embodiments, R¹ is -CH₂OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹); and each of R²⁰ and R²¹ is independently Na⁺, Li⁺, K⁺, or hydrogen. In certain embodiments, at least one of R¹, R⁹, R¹⁰, R^u, R¹², R¹³ is not hydrogen. In other embodiments, at least two of R¹, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹², R¹³ is not hydrogen.

[0109] In certain embodiments, R² is hydrogen. In certain embodiments, R² is Ci-6 alkyl. In certain embodiments, R² is methyl. In certain embodiments, R² is selected from the group consisting of ethyl, n-propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, t-butyl, and n-hexyl. In certain embodiments, R is halo. In certain embodiments, R is fluoro. In certain embodiments, R² is chloro. In certain embodiments, R² is bromo. In certain embodiments, R²is iodo.

In certain embodiments, each of R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶ R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹² and R¹³ is independently hydrogen, hydroxyl, -OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), -CH2OH, -CH2OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²‘), optionally substituted C|.6 alkyl, optionally substituted C3.8 cycloalkyl, optionally substituted C1-6 alkoxy, -O-(C| to C6-alkyl)-O-(C| to Ce-alkyl), -C(O)NH2, cyano, or halo. In certain embodiments, each of R³, R⁴, R⁵, and R⁶ is independently hydrogen, C1.6 alkyl, or halo. In certain embodiments, one of R³, R⁴, R⁵, or R⁶ is Ci-6 alkyl or halo. In certain embodiments, one of R³, R⁴, R⁵, or R⁶ is selected from the group consisting of ethyl, n-propyl, iso-propyl, nbutyl, iso-butyl, t-butyl, and n-hexyl. In certain embodiments, one of R³, R⁴, R⁵, or R⁶ is methyl. In certain embodiments, one of R³, R⁴, R⁵, or R⁶ îs fluoro. In certain embodiments, one of R³, R⁴, R⁵, or R⁶ is chloro. In certain embodiments, one of R³, R⁴, R⁵, or R⁶ is fluoro. In certain embodiments, one of R³, R⁴, R⁵, or R⁶ is iodo.

[0110J In certain embodiments, R⁷ is hydrogen. In certain embodiments, R⁷ is Cm alkyl. In certain embodiments, R⁷ is selected from the group consisting of ethyl, n-propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, t-butyl, and n-hexyl. In certain embodiments, R⁷ is methyl.

[OUI] In certain embodiments, at least one of R⁹ and R¹³ is not hydrogen. In certain embodiments, at least one of R⁹ and R¹³ is halo or Cm alkyl. In certain embodiments, at least one of R⁹ and R¹³ is selected from the group consisting of ethyl, n-propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, t-butyl, and n-hexyl. In certain embodiments, at least one of R⁹and R¹³ is independently chloro, fluoro, or methyl. In certain embodiments, at least one of R⁹and R¹³ is bromo. In certain embodiments, at least one of R⁹ and R¹³ is iodo. In certain embodiments, R⁹ and R¹³ are independently halo or Cm alkyl. In certain embodiments, R⁹and R¹³ are independently chloro, fluoro, or methyl. In certain embodiments, R⁹ and R¹³ are chloro. In certain embodiments, R⁹ and R¹³ are methyl.

(0112] In certain embodiments, each of R¹⁰ and R¹² is independently hydrogen, halo, or Cm alkyl. In certain embodiments, each of R¹⁰ and R^t2 is independently ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, t-butyl, and n-hexyl. In certain embodiments, each of R¹⁰ and R¹²is independently hydrogen, chloro, fluoro, or methyl. In certain embodiments, each of R¹⁰and R¹² is independently bromo. In certain embodiments, each of R¹⁰ and R¹² is independently iodo. In certain embodiments, each of R¹⁰ and R¹² is independently fluoro. In certain embodiments, each of R¹⁰ and R¹² is independently chloro. In certain embodiments, R¹⁰ and R¹² are hydrogen.

(0113] In certain embodiments, R¹¹ is hydrogen. In certain embodiments, R¹¹ is -O-(Ci to C6-alkyl)-0 -(Cj to Cô-alkyl). In certain embodiments, R¹¹ is -OCH2CH2OCH3. In certain embodiments, R¹¹ is independently ethyl, n-propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, iso-butyl, t-butyl, and n-hexyl. In certain embodiments, R¹¹ is halo. In certain embodiments, R¹¹ is fluoro. In certain embodiments, R¹¹ is chloro. In certain embodiments, R¹¹ is bromo. In certain embodiments, R¹¹ is iodo.

[0114] In certain embodiments,

is selected from the group consisting of:

[0115] In certain embodiments, R* is hydrogen, methyl, or -CH2OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹); R² is hydrogen, methyl, or fluoro; each of R³ and R⁴ is independently hydrogen or methyl; each of R⁵ and R⁶ is independently hydrogen or fluoro; R⁷ is hydrogen; R⁹ is hydrogen, chloro, fluoro, or methyl; R¹⁰ is hydrogen or fluoro; R¹¹ is hydrogen or

-OCH2CH2OCH3; R¹² is hydrogen or fluoro; R¹³ is hydrogen, chloro, fluoro, or methyl; and each of R and R is independently Na , Li , K , or hydrogen.

[0116] In certain embodiments, the structure is:

stereoisomer, mixture of stereoisomers, or tautomer thereof.

[0117] In certain embodiments, the structure is:

; or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, ester, single stereoisomer, mixture of stereoisomers, or tautomer thereof. The above compound is an example of a prodrug as it generates the free amide (pyridine) compound as a métabolite. One of ordinary skill in the art is able to synthesize other prodrugs of compounds of the invention based on disclosure herein and in the art.

[0118] In certain embodiments, the compound is selected from the group consisting of:

2.6- dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy)-A^-(4-(2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl) benzyl)benzamide (D;

2.6- dichloro-N-[4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydro-pyridin-4-yl)-benzyl]-benzamide (2); 2-chloro-3-fluoro-7V-(4-(2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (3);

2-chloro-6-methyl-7V-(4-(2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin'4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (4);

2.6- dimethyl-7V-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (5);

2.6- dichloro-/V-[4-(6-methyl-2-oxo-l,2-dihydro-pyridin-4-yl)-benzyl]-benzamide (6);

2-chloro-3,6-difluoro-/V-(4-(2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (7);

2.6- dichloro-7V-(3-methyl-4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (8);

2.6- dichloro-7V-(4-( 1 -methyl-2-oxo-l ,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (9);

2.6- difluoro-/V-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (10); 2“ChlorO“6-fluoro-7V’-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (11);

2.6- dichloro-7V-(2-fluoro-4-(2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (12);

2.6- dichloro-jV-(4-(5-fluoro-2-oxo-l ,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (13); and phosphoric acid mono-(4- {4-[(2,6-dichloro-benzoylamino)-methyl]-phenyl}-2-oxo-2H -pyridin-l-ylmethyl) ester (14); or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, ester, single stereoisomer, mixture of stereoisomers, or tautomer thereof.

Synthcsis of the Compounds of Formula (1) [0119] Compound Préparation: The compounds can be prepared from readily available starting materials using, for example, the following general methods and procedures. It will be appreciated tliat where typical or preferred process conditions (z.e., reaction températures, times, mole ratios of reactants, solvents, pressures, etc.) are given, other process conditions can also be used unless otherwise stated. Optimum reaction conditions may vary with the particular reactants or solvent used, but such conditions can be determined by one skilled in the art by routine optimization procedures [0120] Additionally, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, conventionai protecting groups may be necessary to prevent certain functional groups from undergoing undesired reactions. The terni protecting group or PG, as used herein, is meant that a particular functional moiety, e.g., O, S, or N, is temporarily blocked so that a reaction can be carried out selectively at another reactive site in a multifunctional compound. Protecting groups or PGs,as used herein, are well known in the art and include those described in detail in Protective Groups in Organic Synthesis, Fourth Ed., Greene, T.W. and Wuts, P.G., Eds., John Wiley & Sons, New York: 2007, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference, and references cited therein.

[0121] The term protecting group or PG encompasses a suitable amino protecting group that is well known in the art and includes those described in detail in Greene et al. Non-limiting examples of suitable amino protecting groups include methyl carbamate, ethyl carbamate, 9-fluorenylmethyl carbamate (Fmoc), r-butyl carbamate (BOC), and benzyl carbamate (Cbz).

[0122] The term protecting group or PG further encompasses a suitable carboxylic acid protecting group and a suitable phosphoric acid protecting group that is well known in the art and includes those described in detail in Greene et al. Non-limiting examples of suitable carboxylic acid protecting groups and suitable phosphoric acid protecting groups further include, but are not limited to, silyl—, alkyl-, alkenyl-, aryl-, and arylalkyl- protecting groups.

[0123] The term protecting group or PG further encompasses a suitable hydroxyl protecting group, that is well known in the art and includes those described in detail in Greene et al. Non-limiting examples of suitable hydroxyl protecting groups include methyl, Λ-butyl, methoxylmethyl (MOM), trimethylsilyl (TMS), triethylsilyl (TES), triisopropylsilyl (TIPS), and the like.

[0124] The term “leaving group” or “LG” as used herein, is well known among those of skill in the art as a labile substituent of a compound that is readily displaced from the compound. Leaving groups, as used herein, are described in March's Advanced Organic Chemistry, (John Wiley, and Sons, 5^,b Edition, 2001), and encompass the group consisting of a halo; OR^G; SR^G; O(CO)R^G; S(CO)R°; O(SO2)R^G; OP(O)OR^GOR^H; or N2⁺; wherein each R^G rt and R is, independently, hydrogen, a substituted or unsubstituted, branched or unbranched, cyclic or acyclic Cμιο alkyi; a substituted or unsubstituted, branched or unbranched, cyclic or acyclic Cmo haloalkyl; a substituted or unsubstituted aryl; or a substituted or unsubstituted haloaryl. In certain embodiments, each LG is, independently, a chloro; bromo; iodo;

F

Cl

^^xL.cf₃

O O ; wherein each X is, independently, O or S.

|0125] The term peptide coupling agent refers to reagents used in the methods of peptide coupling that are well known to those skilled in the art as described in M. Bodansky, et al., The Practice of Peptide Synthesis, Reactivity and Structure, Concepts in Organic Chemistry, Volume 21, Second, Revised Edition, Springer-Verlag, New York, N.Y. (1994), the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. The peptide coupling agents, as used herein, that are useful in the method include, but are not limited to those disclosed in Bodansky, et al., such as C>-(7-azabenzotriazol-l-yl) -ΛζΝ,Ύ',Ύ'-tetramethyluronium hexafluorophosphate (HATU), O-benzotriazole -jV.A^jV'.Y’-tetramethyl-uronium-hexafluoro-plwsphate (HBTU), dicyclohexyl carbodiimide (DCC), diisopropyl carbodiimide (DIC). DCC/1-hydroxy benzotriazole, DCC//Vhydroxysuccinimide, l-ethyl-3-(3-dimethyllaminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride EDCHCI, l-îsobutoxycarbonyl-2-isobutoxy-I,2-dihydro quinone (IIDQ), carbonyldiimidizole, /V-ethyl-5-phenylisoxazolium-3'-sulfonate (Woodward's Reagent K), benzotriazolyl-7V-hydroxytris(dimethyamino)phosphonium hexafluorophosphate (BOP), (benzotriazol-l-yloxy)tripyrrolidinophosphonîum hexafluorophosphate (PyBOP), and the like.

[0126] The term “Suzuki reaction” as used herein, is well known among those of skill in the art as and refers to a CC coupling of two reactants in which one reactant is a boronic acid or boronic ester moiety, as described by N. Miyaura and A, Suzuki; Chem. Rev.', 1995, 95, 2457-2483; and A, Suzuki, J. Organomet. Chem., 1999, 576, 147-168. Typically, the Suzuki reaction may be carried out in the presence of a palladium catalyst such as palladium(II) acetate, tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium (0), palladium on activated charcoal or dichloro[l,r-bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene]palladium(Il), in an aprotic polar solvent (for example acetonitrile, JV.TV-dimethylformamide, dimethoxyethone or tetrahydrofuran) or a protic polar solvent (for example n-propanol, iso-propanol) or a mixture of these solvents with water. The volume of solvent used will be from approximately 3 to 30 times the quantity of boronic acid or boronic ester used. Advantageously, the palladium catalyst may contain a ligand selected from: a triphenylphosphine, a tri-o-tolylphosphine, a tri-w-tolylphosphine or a tri-p-tolylphosphine. The catalysts partîcularly preferred are palladium(II) acetate and palladium on carbon which make it possible to obtain partîcularly fast reaction kinetics. Palladium(II) acetate may be advantageously used in combination with a 2-(dicyclo hexylphosphino)biphenyl type ligand (J. P. Wolfe et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc., 1999,121, 95509561). The reaction is generally carried out in the presence of an inorganic base such as potassium carbonate, sodium carbonate, caesium carbonate, sodium hydroxi de or potassium hydroxide or in the presence of a tertiary amine such as triethylamine or diisopropylethylamine. In certain embodiments the inorganic base can be potassium carbonate or potassium hydroxide. The Suzuki reaction is preferably carried out under an inert atmosphère, for example, under an argon or nitrogen atmosphère. The reaction mixture is advantageously heated at a température in the range from 60 °C to 110 C, for 2 minutes to 24 hours. Quenching with an acidic medium, for example, in the presence of HCl, is often carried out. One skilled in the art will be able to modify these conditions, in particular by applying the variants of the Suzuki reaction which are described in the literature.

[0127] The term cyclic boronic ester moiety refers to portions of boron-comprising reactants used in Suzuki reactions such as 4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-l ,3,2-dioxa boronic ester, 4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-l,3,2-dioxaboronic ester, pinacolato dioxaboronic ester, catechol dioxaboronic ester, neopentyl glycolato dioxaboronic ester, hexylene glycolato dioxaboronic ester, [(+)-pinonediolato] dioxaboronic ester, [(-)-pinonediolato] dioxaboronic ester, diethyld-tartrate glycolato dioxaboronic ester, diethyl-l-tartrate glycolato dioxaboronic ester, diisopropyl-d-tartrate glycolato dioxaboronic ester, diisopropyl-I-tartrate-glycolato dioxaboronic ester, A/A,A^r’,A^r’-tetramethyl-d-tartaramide

-glycolato dioxaboronic ester, or A,N,;V’,7V’-tetramethyl-l -tartaramide glycolato dîoxaboronic ester.

[0128] Furthermore, the compounds may contain one or more chiral centers. Accordingly, if desired, such compounds can be prepared or isolated as pure stereoisomers, Le., as individual enantiomers or diastereomers, or as stereoisomer-enriched mixtures. Ail such stereoisomers (and enriched mixtures) are included within the scope, unless otherwise indicated. Pure stereoisomers (or enriched mixtures) may be prepared using, for example, optîcally active starting materials or stereoselective reagents well-known in the art. Alternativeiy, racemic mixtures of such compounds can be separated using, for example, chiral column chromatography, chiral resolving agents, and the like.

[0129] The starting materials for the following reactions are generally known compounds or can be prepared by known procedures or obvîous modifications thereof. For example, many of the starting materials are available from commercial suppliers such as Aldrich Chemical Co. (Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA), Bachem (Torrance, California, USA), EmkaChemce or Sigma (St. Louis, Missouri, USA). Others may be prepared by procedures, or obvîous modifications thereof, described in standard reference texts such as Fieser and Fieser's Reagents for Organic Synthesis, Volumes 1-15 (John Wiley, and Sons, 1991), Rodd's Chemistry of Carbon Compounds, Volumes 1-5, and Supplémentais (Elsevier Science Publishers, 1989), Organic Reactions, Volumes 1-40 (John Wiley, and Sons, 1991), March's Advanced Organic Chemistry, (John Wiley, and Sons, 5^lh Edition, 2001), and Larock's Comprehensive Organic Transformations (VCH Publishers Inc., 1989).

[0130] The terms “solvent”, “inert organic solvent” or “inert solvent” mean a solvent inert under the conditions of the reaction being described in conjunction therewith [including, for example, benzene, toluene, acetonitrile, tetrahydrofuran (“THF”), dimethylformamide (“DMF”), chloroform, methylene chloride (or dichloromethone), diethyl ether, methanol, pyridine and the like], Unless specifîed to the contrary, the solvents used in the reactions are inert organic solvents.

[0131] The term “q.s.” means adding a quantity sufficient to achieve a stated function, e.g., to bring a solution to the desired volume (Le., 100%).

Synthetic Strategies [0132] The compounds of Formula (I) in which substituents R¹ through R²⁷, X¹, Y¹, Z¹ and Z² are as defined herein. LG is a leaving group (e.g., halo, hydroxyl, alkoxy, OSO2CF3, N₂ ⁺, etc.)·, PG is a protecting group (e.g., t-butyl, t-butyl carbamate (BOC), etc.)', and Z² is (OH)₂, (0Me)₂, F3·, or (OR^H)(OR^J), wherein OR^H and OR^J may combine with boron to form a cyclic arylboronic ester moiety or cyclic alkylboronic ester moiety as described herein (e.g., 4,4,5,5tetramethyl-l,3,2-dioxaboronic ester, catechol dioxaboronic ester, etc.)', wherein R^l7is an optionally substituted alkylene moiety of l-6 carbon atoms.

[0133j In one embodiment, the compounds of Formula (I) may be prepared according to the synthetic sequence shown in Scheme I.

Scheme I

[0134] The compounds of Formula (I) can be prepared according to the synthetic sequence shown in Scheme I from reactants (a) and (b) that are commercially available or prepared by means well known in the art. In general, the reactants (a) and at least one molar équivalent, and preferably a slight excess (e.g., 1.2 to 1.5 molar équivalents) of (b), as shown in Scheme I, are combined under standard reaction conditions in an inert solvent, such as dimethylformamide (DMF), at a température of about 25 °C until the reaction is complété, generally about 16 hours. Standard reaction conditions may comprise the use of a molar excess of suitable base, such as sodium or potassium hydroxide, triethylamine, diisopropylethylamine, 2V-methylmorpholine (NMM), or pyridine, or in some cases where LG is hydroxyl, a peptide coupling reagent, such as O-(7-azabenzotriazol-l -yl)-N,N,Ν',N’ -tetra methyluronium hexafluorophosphate (HATU), may be used. When the reaction is substantially complété, the product is subjected, if necessary, to a deprotection sequence under standard reaction conditions (e.g., THF, CH2CI2, or the like, a molar excess of acid such as acetic acid, formic acid, trifluoroacetic acid, or the like as described herein) to yield isolated by conventional means.

[0135] Alternative methods for preparing compounds of Formula (I) are shown below in the synthetic sequences of Schemes II-V. For example, in a further embodiment, the compounds of Formula (I) may be prepared as shown in the synthetic sequence of Scheme II.

Scheme II

(c) (d)

10136] The compounds of Formula (I) can be prepared according to the synthetic sequence shown in Scheme II from the appropriate aminomethylarylboronic acid dérivative (c) and at least one équivalent, and preferably a slight excess (e.g., 1.2 to 1.5 molar équivalents), of reactant (b) under standard reaction conditions. Standard reaction conditions may comprise the use of a suitable base, or in some cases where LG is hydroxyl, at least one équivalent, and preferably a slight molar excess (e.g., 1.2 to 1.5 molar équivalents), of a peptide coupling reagent as described herein. The resulting arylboronic acid dérivative (d) and substituted pyridine (e) are then coupled under standard Suzuki reaction conditions (e.g., molar équivalents of (d) and (e) in dry DMF under argon atmosphère, at elevated températures, with approximately 5-10 molar % of palladium catalyst and a molar excess of inorganic base such as potassium carbonate, as described herein) followed, if necessary, by a deprotection sequence under standard reaction conditions (e.g., THF, CH2CI2, or the like, a molar excess of acid such as acetic acid, fonnic acid, trifluoroacetic acid, or the like as described herein) to yield the pyridin-2(17Z)-ones (g).

[0137] In another embodiment, the compounds of Formula (I) may be prepared as shown in the synthetic sequence of Scheme III.

Scheme III

[0138] The compounds of Formula (I) can be prepared according to the synthetic sequence shown in Scheme III by the coupling of an arylboronic acid dérivative, (h), and a substituted pyridine, (e), under standard Suzuki reaction conditions (e.g., molar équivalents of (h) and (e) in dry DMF, under argon atmosphère at elevated températures, with approximately 5-10 molar % of palladium catalyst and a molar excess of inorganic base such as potassium carbonate, as described herein) to yield the protected amine (i). Deprotection of (i) under standard conditions (e.g., THF, CH2CI2, or the like, a molar excess of acid such as acetic acid, formic acid, trifluoroacetic acid, or the like as described herein) yields the primary amine (j), which is combined with at least one molar équivalent, and preferably a slight excess (e.g., 1.2 to 1.5 molar équivalents), of acyl dérivative (b) under standard reaction conditions to yield the pyridin-2(l//)-ones (g). Standard reaction conditions may comprise the use of a suitable base, or in some cases where LG is hydroxyl, at least one équivalent, and preferably a slight molar excess (e.g., 1.2 to 1.5 molar équivalents), of a peptide coupling reagent as described herein.

[0139] In yet another embodiment, the compounds of Formula (I) may be prepared as shown in the synthetic sequence of Scheme IV.

Schemc IV

(m)

[0140] The compounds of Formula (I) can be prepared according to the synthetic sequence shown in Scheme IV by reacting amine (k) with at least one équivalent, and preferably a slight excess (e.g., 1.2 to 1.5 molar équivalents), of acyl dérivative (b) under standard reaction conditions to yield amide (I). Standard reaction conditions may comprise the use of a suitable base, or in some cases where LG is hydroxyl, at least one équivalent, and preferably a slight molar excess (e.g., 1.2 to 1.5 molar équivalents), of a peptide coupling reagent as described herein. Amide (1) is then coupled with pyridylboronic acid dérivative (ni) and under standard Suzuki conditions (e.g., molar équivalents of (1) and (m) in dry DMF under argon atmosphère at elevated températures, with approximately 5-10 molar % of palladium catalyst and a molar excess of inorganic base such as potassium carbonate, as described herein) to produce the substituted pyridine dérivative (f) which is converted to the pyridin-2(l/7)-ones (g) following deprotection (e.g., THF, CH2CI2, or the like, a molar excess of acid such as acetic acid, formic acid, trifluoroacetic acid, or the like as described herein).

[0141] In certain embodiments, phosphate ester dérivatives of Formula (I) may be prepared as shown below in the synthetic sequence of Scheme V.

Schcmc V

[0142] For example, phosphate ester dérivatives (r) can be prepared according to the synthetic sequence of Scheme V by the alkylation of a pyridin-2( 177)-one (g) with at least one équivalent, and preferably a slight excess (e.g., 1.2 to 1.5 molar équivalents) of linker (n), wherein R²⁷ is an optionally substituted alkylene moiety of 1-6 carbon atoms, and at least one équivalent, and preferably a slight excess (e.g., 1.2 to 2 molar équivalents) of a suitable base such as triethyl amine, diisopropylethylamine, /V-methylmorpholine (NMM), or pyridine under standard reaction conditions to yield the alkylated pyridin-2(l/7)-one (o) dérivative which can subsequently be used to O-alkylate a molar excess (e.g., 1.2 to 5 molar équivalents) of phosphate diester (p) to yield a the corresponding phosphate triester (q). Deprotection of phosphate triester (q) under standard conditions (e.g., CH3CN/H2O or the like, a molar excess of acid such as acetic acid or the like with heating, as described herein) yields phosphate ester (r).

Scheme A

The compounds of Formula (II) can be prepared according to the synthetic sequence shown in Scheme A from reactants (I) and (2) that are commercially available or prepared by means well known in the art. In general, the reactants (1) and at least one molar équivalent, and preferably a slight excess (e.g., 1.2 to 1.5 molar équivalents) of (2), as shown in Sclieme A, are combined under standard reaction conditions in an inert solvent, such as dimethylformamide (DMF), at a température of about 25 °C until the reaction is complété, generally about 16 hours. Standard reaction conditions may comprise the use of a molar excess of suitable base, such as sodium, potassium hydroxide, triethylamine, diisopropylethylamine, N methylmorpholine (NMM), or pyridine, or in some cases where LG is hydroxyl, a peptide coupling reagent, such as O (7 azabenzotriazol 1 yl) N,N,Ν’,N' tetra methyluronium hexafluorophosphate (HATU), may be used. When the reaction is substantially complété, the product is subjected, if necessary, to a deprotectîon sequence under standard reaction conditions (e.g., THF, CH2CI2, or the like, a molar excess of acid such as acetic acid, formic acid, trifluoroacetic acid, or the like as described herein) to yield isolated by conventional means.

Scheme B

The compounds of Formula (II) may also be prepared according to the synthetic sequence shown in Scheme B from commercially available reactant (1) or prepared by means well known in the art. Formula 3 can be prepared from reactant 1 via hydrogénation. In general the reactants (1) is hydrogenated using paladium catalyst such as Pd/C, Pd(OH)2, in solvent such as éthanol or by transfer hydrogénation. Formula 3 is then coupled with commercially available reactant 2 by means well known in the art. In general, the reactants (1) and at least one molar équivalent, and preferably a slight excess (e.g., 1.2 to 1.5 molar équivalents) of (2), as shown in Scheme A, are combined under standard reaction conditions in an inert solvent, such as dimethylformamide (DMF), at a température of about 25 °C until the reaction is complété, generally in about 16 hours. Standard reaction conditions may comprise the use of a molar excess of suitable base, such as sodium or potassium hydroxide, triethylamine, diisopropylethylamine, N methylmorpholine (NMM), or pyridine, or in some cases where LG is hydroxyl, a peptide coupling reagent, such as O (7 azabenzotriazol-1-yl) N,N,Ν',N' tetra methyluronium hexafluorophosphate (HATU), may be used. When the reaction is substantially complété, the product is subjected, if necessary, to a deprotectîon sequence under standard reaction conditions (e.g., THF, CH2C12, or the like, a molar excess of acid such as acetic acid, formic acid, trifluoroacetic acid, or the like as described herein) to

The compounds of Formula (II) may be prepared according to the synthetic sequence shown in Scheme C by the coupling an arylboronic acid dérivative, (h), and a substituted pyridine, (e), under standard Suzuki reaction conditions (e.g., molar équivalents of (h) and (e) in dry DMF, under argon atmosphère at elevated températures, with approximately 5-10 molar % of palladium catalyst and a molar excess of inorganic base such as potassium carbonate, as described herein to produce the substituted pyridine dérivative (f) which is converted to the pyridin-2(lH)-ones (g) following deprotection (e.g., THF, CHoCh, or the like, a molar excess of acid such as acetic acid, formic acid, trifluoroacetic acid, or the like as described herein). Reactant pyridin-2(lH)-one (g) can be hydrogenated using palladium catalyst such as Pd/C, Pd(OH)2, in a solvent such as éthanol or by transfer hydrogénation to produce piperidone (h) which may be converted to amine (i) which in tum may be converted to formula IL reparing Compounds of formula II

Pharmaceutical Compositions [0143] In certain aspects, pharmaceutical compositions are provided comprising a therapeutîcally effective amount of a compound of Formula (I) and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

[0144] The compounds of Formula (I) are usually administered in the form of pharmaceutical compositions. Therefore, pharmaceutical compositions are provided that contain, as the active ingrédient, one or more of the compounds of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait or ester thereof, and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, carriers, including inert solid dîluents and fillers, diluents, including stérile aqueous solution and various organic solvents, perméation enhancers, solubilizers and adjuvants.

[0145J The compounds of Formula (I) may be administered alone or in combination with other therapeutic agents. Such compositions are prepared in a manner well known in the pharmaceutical art (see, e.g., Remington ‘s Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mace Publishing Co., Philadelphia, PA 17^,h Ed. (1985) and Modem Pharmaceutics, Marcel Dekker, Inc. 3^rd Ed. (G.S. Banker & C.T. Rhodes, Eds.).

Methods of Use [0146] In certain aspects, methods of using the compounds of Formula (I) in the treatment of addiction to a dopamine-producing agent are provided. The method comprises administering to a mammal in need thereof a therapeutically effective dose of a compound of Formula (1). Such diseases include, but are not limited to, the treatment of dependency upon cocaïne, opiates, amphétamines, nicotine, and alcohol. In certain embodiments, the compounds of Formula (I) are generally effective in the treatment of conditions that respond to the administration of ALDH-2 inhibitors. While not wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the compounds described herein are effective in treating addiction as a conséquence of their ability to normalize the încreased dopamine levels associated with various addictive behaviors. See, N.D. Volkow et al., Dopamine in drug abuse and addiction: results from imaging studies and treatment implications, Mol. Psychiatry 9 (2004), pp. 557569; and B.J. Everitt and M.E. Wolf, Psychomotor stimulant addiction: a neural Systems perspective, J. Neurosci. 22 (2002), pp. 3312-3320. Addictive behavior has been shown to include addiction to food particularly sugary foods. For example, in the manuscript “Evidence for sugar addiction: Behavioral and neurochemical effects of intermittent, excessive sugar intake” (Hoebel et. Al. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2008 ; 32(1): 20-39.), the authors wrote “What this review demonstrates is that rats with intermittent access to food and a sugar solution can show both a constellation of behaviors and parallel brain changes that are characteristic of rats that voluntarily self-administer addictive drugs. In the aggregate, this is evidence that sugar can be addictive.” [0147| Given this proposed mechanism of action, the compounds of Formula (I) are useful, for example, in the treatment of addictive and compulsive behaviors and neurological conditions associated with increased dopamine levels as described, for example, in the published U.S. patent application 20100113483. Such behaviors and conditions inciude, but are not limited to, compulsive gambling, overeating, and shopping, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), schizophrenia, attention déficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety and the like. In certain embodiments, the compounds described herein hâve also been shown to be effective in treating compulsive eating disorders and obesity.

[0148] Another aspect pertains to methods of modulating (e.g., reducing) alcohol consumptîon, alcohol dependence and/or alcohol abuse for therapeutic purposes. Accordingly, in an exemplary embodiment, the modulatory method involves contacting ALDH-2 with a compound that inhibits ALDH-2. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the modulatory method involves administering a compound that increases the concentration of an aldéhyde (e.g., 5-HIAL and/or DOPAL) formed during catabolism of a neurotransmitter (e.g., 5-HT/serotonin and/or DA/dopamine). Preferably, the compound does not inhibit MAO, or inhibits MAO only to a small degree.

[0149] Another embodiment involves a method of modulating alcohol consumption for the treatment of alcohol abuse or dependence which includes the step of administering to a patient a therapeutically effective amount of a compound which inhibits ALDH-2, and/or increases the concentration of an aldéhyde (e.g., 5-HIAL and/or DOPAL) formed during catabolism of a neurotransmitter (e.g,, 5-HT and/or DA).

[0150] In certain embodiments, is provided a method of modulating alcohol consumption in a mammal comprising administering a compound of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutical composition thereof, in an amount effective to increase a concentration of an aldéhyde formed during catabolism of a neurotransmitter. In certain embodiments, the neurotransmitter is serotonin or dopamine. In certain embodiments, the aldéhyde is 5-hydroxyindoleacetaldehyde or 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde. In certain embodiments, the compound does not inhibit monoamine oxidase.

Tcsting [0151J Activity testing is conducted as described in those patents and patent applications referenced above, and in the Examples below, and by methods apparent to one skilled in the art. For example, as described in “The Mitochondrial Monoamine Oxidase-Aldehyde

Dehydrogenase Pathway: A Potential Site of Action of Daidzein”, J. Med. Chem. 2000, 43, 4169-4179. In general, the compounds of Formula (I) are assayed to détermine their effects on MAO and ALDH-2 independently using the membrane and lysate of a density-gradientpurified mitochondria préparation as the respective enzyme sources. The results are expressed in IC50 values.

[0152] Monitoring the influence of a compound of Formula (I) on the modulation of alcohol consumption, dependence and/or abuse in a patient can be determined by a screening assay as described herein and as described, for example, in the published U.S. patent application 20040068003. In such an assay, decreased consumption ofalcohol can be used to measure the effectiveness of compounds of Formula (I).

[0153] For example, and not by way of limitation, ALDH-2 activity is decreased in cells treated with a compound of Formula (I) which inhibits ALDH-2 and as a conséquence diverts part of 5-HT metabolic flux from the oxidative pathway, which leads to the formation of 5hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), to the reductive pathway, further leading to the formation of 5-hydroxytryptophol (5-HTOL). Thus, to study the effect of a compound of Formula (I) on alcohol dependence and/or abuse, for example, in a clinical trial, urine samples can be collected and levels of 5-HIAA and 5-HTOL in the samples can be determined, Decreased levels of 5-HIAA and increased levels of 5-HTOL will indicate inhibition of ALDH-2 activity. In this way, the urine [5-HTOL]/[5-HIAA] ratio can serve as a marker, indicative of the physiological response of the cells to the compound. Accordingly, this response state may be determined before, and at various points during treatment of the individual with the compound.

[0154] In one embodiment, is provided a method for monitoring the effectiveness of treatment of a subject with a compound of Formula (I) including the steps of (i) obtaining pre-administration urine samples from a subject before and after alcohol détoxification but prior to administration of the compound of Formula (I); (ii) determining the [5-HTOL]/[5HIAA] ratios in the pre-administration samples; (iii) obtaining one or more postadministration samples from the subject; (iv) determining the [5-HTOL]/[5-HIAA] ratio in the post-administration samples; (v) comparing the [5-HTOL]/[5-HIAA] ratios in the preadministration samples with that in the post administration sample or samples; and (vi) altering the administration of the compound of Formula (I) to the subject accordingly. According to such an embodiment, ALDH-2 inactivation and/or an increase in urine [5

HTOL]/[5-HIAA] ratio may be used as an indicator of the effectiveness of the compound of Formula (I), even in the absence of an observable phenotypic response.

Administration [0155| The compounds of Formula (I) are usually administered in the form of pharmaceutical compositions. Therefore provided herein are pharmaceutical compositions that contain, as the active ingrédient, one or more of the compounds of Formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait or ester thereof, and one or more phannaceutically acceptable excipients, carriers, including inert solid diluents and fillers, diluents, including stérile aqueous solution and various organic solvents, perméation enhancers, solubilizers and adjuvants. The compounds of Formula I may be administered alone or in combination with other therapeutic agents. Such compositions are prepared in a manner well known in the pharmaceutical art (see, e.g., Remington’s Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mace Pubiishing Co., Philadelphia, PA I7^,h Ed. (1985) and “Modem Pharmaceutics”, Marcel Dekker, Inc. 3^rd Ed. (G.S. Banker & C.T. Rhodes, Eds.).

[0156] The compounds of Formula (I) may be administered in either single or multiple doses by any of the accepted modes of administration of agents having sîmilar utilities, for example as described in those patents and patent applications incorporated by reference, including rectal, buccal, intranasal and transdermal routes, by intra-arterial injection, intravenously, intraperitoneally, parenterally, intramuscularly, subcutaneously, oraily, topically, as an inhalant, or via an impregnated or coated device such as a stent, for example, or an artery-inserted cylindrical polymer.

[0157] One mode for administration is parental, particularly by injection. The forms in which the novel compositions may be incorporated for administration by injection include aqueous or oil suspensions, or émulsions, with sesame oil, corn oil, cottonseed oil, or peanut oil, as well as élixirs, mannitol, dextrose, or a stérile aqueous solution, and similar pharmaceutical vehicles. Aqueous solutions in saline are also conventionally used for injection. Ethanol, glycerol, propylene glycol, liquid polyethylene glycol, and the like (and suîtable mixtures thereof), cyclodextrin dérivatives, and vegetable oils may also be employed. The proper fluidity can be maintained, for example, by the use of a coating, such as lecithin, by the maintenance of the required particle size in the case of dispersion and by the use of surfactants. The prévention of the action of microorganisms can be brought about by various antibacterial and antifungal agents, for example, parabens, chlorobutanol, phénol, sorbic acid, thimerosal, and the like.

[0158] Stérile injectable solutions are prepared by incorporating the compound of Formula (1) in the required amount in the appropriate solvent with various other ingrédients as enumerated above, as required, followed by filtered sterilization. Generally, dispersions are prepared by incorporating the various sterilized active ingrédients into a stérile vehicle which contains the basic dispersion medium and the required other ingrédients from those enumerated above. In the case of stérile powders for the préparation of stérile injectable solutions, the known methods of préparation include vacuum-drying and freeze-drying techniques which yield a powder of the active ingrédient plus any additional desired ingrédient from a previously sterile-filtered solution thereof.

[0159] Oral administration is another route for administration of the compounds of Formula (I). Administration may be via capsule or enteric coated tablets, or the like. In making the pharmaceutical compositions that include at least one compound of Formula (I), the active ingrédient is usually diluted by an excipient and/or enclosed within such a carrier that can be in the form of a capsule, sachet, paper or other container. When the excipient serves as a diluent, it can be a solid, semi-solid, or liquid material (as above), which acts as a vehicle, carrier or medium for the active ingrédient. Thus, the compositions can be in the form of tablets, pills, powders, lozenges, sachets, cachets, élixirs, suspensions, émulsions, solutions, syrups, aérosols (as a solid or in a liquid medium), ointments containing, for example, up to 10% by weight of the active compound, soft and hard gelatin capsules, stérile injectable solutions, and stérile packaged powders.

[0160] Some examples of suitable excipients include lactose, dextrose, sucrose, sorbitol, mannitol, starches, gum acacia, calcium phosphate, alginates, tragacanth, gelatin, calcium silicate, micro crystalline cellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone, cellulose, stérile water, syrup, and methyl cellulose. The formulations can additionally include: lubricating agents such as talc, magnésium stéarate, and minerai oil; wetting agents; emulsifying and suspending agents; preserving agents such as methyl- and propylhydroxy-benzoates; sweetening agents; and flavoring agents.

[0161] The compositions can be formulated so as to provide quick, sustained or delayed release of the active ingrédient after administration to the patient by employing procedures known in the art. Controlled release drug delivery Systems for oral administration include osmotic pump Systems and dissolutionai Systems containing polymer-coated réservoirs or drug-polymer matrix formulations. Examples of controlled release Systems are gîven in U.S. Patent Nos. 3,845,770; 4,326,525; 4,902514; and 5,616,345. Another formulation for use in the methods employs transdermal delivery devices (“patches”). Such transdermal patches may be used to provide continuous or discontinuous infusion of the compounds in controlled amounts. The construction and use of transdermal patches for the delivery of pharmaceutical agents is well known in the art. See, e.g., U.S. Patent Nos. 5,023,252, 4,992,445 and 5,001,139. Such patches may be constructed for continuous, pulsatile, or on demand delivery of pharmaceutical agents.

[0162] Tire compositions are preferably formulated in a unit dosage form. The term “unit dosage forrns” refers to physically discrète units suitable as unitary dosages for human subjects and other mammals, each unit containing a predetermined quantity of active material calculated to produce the desired therapeutic effect, in association with a suitable pharmaceutical excipient (e.g., a tablet, capsule, or ampoule). The compounds of Formula (I) are effective over a wide dosage range and is generally administered in a pharmaceutically effective amount. Preferably, for oral administration, each dosage unit contains from about 10 mg to 1 g of a compound of Formula (I), more preferably from 10 to 700 mg, and for parentéral administration, preferably from 10 to 700 mg of a compound of Formula (I), more preferably about 50-300 mg. Preferred dose regimens may also include administering about 100-300 mg twice daily to a patient in need thereof. Nonetheless, it will be understood, that the amount of the compound of Formula (I) actually administered will be determined by a physician, in light of the relevant circumstances of the patient, including the condition to be treated, the chosen route of administration, the actual compound administered and its relative activity, the âge, weight, and response of the individual patient, the severity of the patient’s symptoms, and the like.

[0163] For preparing solid compositions such as tablets, the principal active ingrédient is mixed with a pharmaceutical excipient to form a solid preformulation composition containing a homogeneous mixture of a compound. When referring to these preformulation compositions as homogeneous, it is meant that the active ingrédient is dispersed evenly throughout the composition so that the composition may be readily subdivided into equally effective unit dosage forrns such as tablets, pills and capsules.

10164] Tablets or pills may be coated or otherwise compounded to provide a dosage form affording the advantage of prolonged action, or to protect from the acid conditions of the stomach. For example, the tablet or pill can comprise an inner dosage and an outer dosage component, the latter being in the form of an envelope over the former. The two components can be separated by an enteric layer that serves to resist disintegration in the stomach and permit the inner component to pass intact into the duodénum or to be delayed in release. A variety of materials can be used for such enteric layers or coatings, such materials including a number of polymeric acids and mixtures of polymeric acids with such materials as shellac, cetyl alcohol, and cellulose acetate.

[0165] Compositions for inhalation or insufflation include solutions and suspensions in pharmaceutically acceptable, aqueous organic solvents, or mixtures thereof, and powders. The liquid or solid compositions may contain suitable pharmaceutically acceptable excipients as described supra. Preferably the compositions are administered by the oral or nasal respiratory route for local or systemic effect. Compositions in preferably pharmaceutically acceptable solvents may be nebulized by use of inert gases. Nebulized solutions may be inhaled directly from the nebulizing device or the nebulizing device may be attached to a face mask tent, or intermittent positive pressure breathing machine. Solution, suspension, or powder compositions may be administered, preferably orally or nasally, from devices that deliver the formulation in an appropriate manner.

[0166] The following examples are included to demonstrate certain embodiments. It should be appreciated by those of skill in the art that the techniques disclosed in the examples which foliow represent techniques discovered by the inventor to fonction well in the practice , and thus can be considered to constitute modes for its practice. However, those of skill in the art should, in light of the présent disclosure, appreciate that many changes can be made in the spécifie embodiments which are disclosed and still obtain a like or similar resuit without departing from the spirit and scope.

EXAMPLES [0167] Unless otherwise stated all températures are in degrees Celsius (°C). Also, in these examples and elsewhere, abbreviations and acronyms hâve the following meanings:

Abbreviation Meaning °C Degree Celsius

5-HIAA 5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid

5-HIAL 5-Hydroxyindoleacetaldehyde

5-HT	5-Hydroxytryptamine (serotonin)
5-HTOL	5-H ydroxytryptophol
Ae	Enzyme activities measured in the presence of a test compound
AIDS	Acquired immune deficiency syndrome
ALDH-2	Human mitochondrial aldéhyde dehydrogenase
Ao	Enzyme activities measured in the absence of a test compound
BHA	Butylated hydroxy anisole
BOC	tert-Butoxycarbonyl
BOP	Benzotriazolyl-7V-hydroxytris(dimethyamino)phospho nium hexafluorophosphate
Cbz	Benzyl carbamate
cm	centimeter
d	Doublet
dd	Doublet of doublets
DA	Dopamine
DCC	Dicyclohexyl carbodiimide
DCM	Di chloromethone
DIC	Diisopropyl carbodiimide
DIEA	A(7V-Diisopropylethylamine
DMF	Dimethylformamide
DMSO	Dimethylsulfoxide
dt	Doublet of triplets
EDTA	Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid
equiv/eq EtOAc	Equivalents Ethyl acetate
EtOH	Ethanol
FR	Fixed ratio
g HATU	Grams O-(7-Azabenzotriazol-1 -yl)-A/ /V, - tetramethyluronium hexafluoropho sphate
HBTU	(9-Bcnzotriazole-jV,jV,jV’,jV’-tctramethyl-uronium-

HPLC hrs/h Hz

IC₅₀

IIDQ ip iv

J

Kg

L

LAD

LCMS/LC-MS

LG

M m/z

M+

M+H

M+Na

MAO

Me mg

MHz min ml/mL mM mmol MOM

MS

NAD

NaPPi

NIH hex afluoro-phosphate

High-performance liquid chromatography

Hours

Hertz

The half maximal inhibitory concentration l -Isobutoxycarbonyl-2-isobutoxy-l ,2-dihydro quinone

Intraperitoneal

Intravenous

Coupling constant

Kilogram

Liter

Low alcohol-drinking rat

Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry

Leaving group

Molar mass-to-charge ratio

Mass peak

Mass peak plus hydrogen

Mass peak plus sodium

Monoamine oxidase

Methyl

Milligram

Mégahertz

Minute

Milliliter

Millimolar

Millimole

Methoxylmethyl

Mass spectroscopy

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide

Sodium pyrophosphate

National Institute of Health

NMM	ïV-Methyl morpho li ne
NMR	Nuclear magnetic résonance
NP	Alcohol non-preferring rat
OCD	Obsessive compulsive disorder
PG	Protecting group
Ph	Phenyl
PyBOP	(Benzotriazol-1 -yloxy)tripyrrolidinophosphonium hexafluorophosphate
q.s. RT/rt/R.T	Quantity sufficient to achieve a stated function Room température
s	Second
s	Singlet
SA	Self-administration
SC	Subcutaneous
SEM	Standard error of means
t	Triplet
TEA	Triethylamine
TES	Triethylsilyl
TFA	Trifluoroacetic acid
THF	Tetrahydrofuran
TIPS	Triisopropylsilyl
TKK	TKK buffer
TLC	Thin layer chromatography
TMS	Trimethylsilyl
TO	Time out
Tris	tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethone
δ	Chemical shift
pg μΙ7 μΐ μΜ μιηοΙ	Microgram Microliter Micromolar Micromole

Examplc 1

Thepréparation of 2,6-dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy)-N-(4-(2-oxo-l,2 -dihydropyridin-4yl)benzyl)benzamide (1) according to the synthetic route of Scheme I:

Scheme VII

Step I — The préparation of2,6-dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy)benzaldehyde:

[0168] 2,6-Dichloro-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (0.5g, 2.62 mmol), l-bromo-2 -methoxyethone (0.3 mL), sodium iodide (0.4g, 0.4 mmol) and potassium carbonate (0.9 g,

6.55 mmol) were added in DMF (5 mL) and heated at 100 °C for 1 h under stirring. When the reaction was done, the reaction mixture was diluted with EtOAc and extracted three times with water. The organic phase was dried over magnésium sulfate, filtered and concentrated in vacuum. The resultîng solid was purified by normal phase chromatography (hexanes: EtOAc 3:1) to afford 2,6-dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy) benzaldehyde.

Step 2 — The préparation of 2,6-dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy)benzoic acid:

[0169] 2,6-Dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy)benzaldehyde (0.5g, 2.0 mmol) in acetone (20 mL) were cooled down in ice bath and then potassium permanganate (0.47 g, 3.0 mmol) in water (5 mL) was added slowly under vigorous stirring. The reaction mixture was warmed up slowly to room température and reacted over 24 h. The reaction mixture was filtered through celite and washed with acetone. The organic phase was evaporated and then re-dissolved in EtOAc to be extracted with IN HCl aqueous solution. The organic phase was dried over magnésium sulfate, filtered and concentrated in vacuum to afford the compound 2,6-dichloro4-(2-methoxyethoxy)benzoic acid.

Step 3 - The préparation ofN-(4-bromobenzyl)-2,6-dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy) benzamide:

(0170] 2,6-Dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy)benzoic acid (0.1g, 0.23mmol), (4-bromophenyl) methanamine hydrochloride (0.1 g, 0.27 mmol), 2-(lH-7-azabenzotriazol -l-yl)-l, 1,3,3tetramethyl uronium hexafluorophosphate methanaminium (HATU) (0.17 g, 0.27 mmol), and triethylamine (0.15 mL, 0.7 mmol) were combined in DMF (3 mL) and then stirred at room température until reaction was completed. The reaction mixture was diluted with ethyl acetate and washed with water and twice with a saturated sodium bicarbonate solution. The organic phase was dried over magnésium sulfate, filtered and concentrated in vacuum. The solid resultîng was used for next step without further purification.

Step 4 - Thepréparation of2,6-dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy)-N-(4-(2-oxo-l,2 -dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide:

[0171] N-(4-Bromobenzyl)-2,6-dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy)benzamide (0.11 g, 0.25 mmol), 2-tert-butoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-l,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)pyridine (0.085 g, 0.3 mmol), césium carbonate (0.2 lg, 0.75 mmol), and [1,1’ Bis(diphenyl phosphino(ferrocene]dichloropalladium(II) (15 mg, 0.025 mmol) were dissolved in degassed DMF (3 mL) and H₂O (1.5 mL). The reaction mixture was degassed by bubbling nitrogen through for 15 min and then heated in the microwave at 85 °C for 20 min, The reaction mixture was diluted with EtOAc and extracted with water. The organic phase was dried over magnésium sulfate, filtered and concentrated in vacuum. The crude product was suspended in hot acetonitrile and the solids filtered out to hâve the pure compound N-(4-(2-tertbutoxypyridin-4-yl)benzyl)-2,6-dichloro-4-(2-methoxy ethoxy)benzamide that was used for next step without further purification.

[0172] Compound N-(4-(2-tert-butoxypyrî d in-4-yl )b enzyl)-2,6-dichloro-4- (2-m ethoxy ethoxy)benzamide was re-dissolved in DCM (2 mL) and trîfluoroacetic acid (2 mL) and stirred at room température for 1 h. after the reaction was done it was concentrated in vacuum and then purified by reverse phase chromatography to afford 2,6-dichloro-4-(2 -methoxyethoxy)-N-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide.

[0173] MS found for C22H20CI2N2O4 as (M+H)⁺ 448.32 'H NMR (400MHz, dmso-d₆)\ ’HNMR (DMSO) δ: 11.58 (s, 1 H), 9.10 (t, J=6.0Hz, 1 H), 7.66 (d, J=8.4Hz, 2H), 7.46 (d, J=8.0Hz, 2H), 7.4 (s, 1 H), 7.12 (s, 2H), 6.56 (s, IH), 6.48 (d, J=5.2Hz, IH), 4.47 (d, J=6.0Hz, 2H), 4.16 (t, J=4.4Hz, 2H), 4.62 (t, J=4.4Hz, 2H), 3.27 (s, 3H).

Example 2

Thepréparation of 2_t6-dichloro-N-[4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydro-pyridin~4-yl)~benzyll -benzatnide (2) according to the synthetic route of Scheme II:

HCl- Η₂Ν·^γ%

HCOOH, DCM

Pd(dppf)CI₂, K₂CO₃,

Step 1 — The préparation of 4-[(2,6-dichloro-benzoylamino)methyl]phenylboronic acid

Cl O

B(OH)₂ [0174] 4-(Aminomethyl)phenylboronic acid hydrochloride (5 g, 26.7 mmol) was dissolved in 25 mL water. 16 mL 50% aqueous KOH solution was added followed by 2,615 dichlorobenzoyl chloride (6.7 g, 32 mmol). The mixture was stirred rapidly at room température over night. Acidification with IN HCl gave a thick, white precipitate which was filtered, washed with water and dried giving 4-[(2,6-dichIoro-benzoylamino) methyljphenylboronic acid as a white powder in quantitative yield.

Step2 — The préparation ofN-[4-(2-tert-butoxy-pyridin-4-yl)-benzyl]-2,6-dichloro

-benzamide

[0175] 4-[(2,6-Dichloro-benzoylamino)methyl]phenylboronic acid (5 g, 15.4 mmol), potassium carbonate (5 g), and [Ι,Γ bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene] dichloropalladium (II) (0.56g, 0.77 mmol) were combined in a round bottom flask. 4-Bromo-2-(t-butoxy) pyridine (3.55g, 15.4 mmol) was dissolved in 20 mL DMF and added to the flask under stirring. The flask was flushed with nitrogen and 10 mL water was added. The reaction mixture was stirred at 70 °C for two hours. After cooling the mixture was poured into 300 mL ethyl acetate and washed with water and brine. The organic phase was dried with magnésium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude N-[4-(2-tert-butoxy-pyridin -4-yl)-benzyl]-2,6-dichloro-benzamide was further purified by silica gel chromatography (eluent: hexone/ethyl acetate 1:1).

Step 3 — The préparation of 2,6-Dichloro-N-[4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydro-pyridin-4-yl)-benzyl] -benzamide

[0176] V-[4-(2-/er/^,-Butoxy-pyridin-4-yl)-benzyl]-2,6-dichloro-benzamidc was dissolved în 30 mL dichloromethone and 12 mL of 98% formic acid. The mixture was stirred at 40 °C for three hours after which the volatile components were evaporated under vacuum. The residue was triturated with ethyl acetate, filtered, washed with ethyl acetate and dried gîving 2,6di chloro-A- [4-(2-oxo-1,2-dihydro-pyri din-4-yl)-b enzyl]

-benzamide (4.34 g, 75.5% yield over two steps) as white powder. C19H14CI2N2O2; MS m/z\ 373 (MH⁺) ‘H NMR(DMSO-d₆): δ 11.56 (s, IH), δ 9.21 (t, J=5.6Hz, IH), δ 7.67 (d, J= 8.0Hz, 2H), δ 7.46 (m, 6H), δ 6.57 (d, J=1.2Hz, IH), δ 6.49 (dd, J=6.8Hz, J’=1.6Hz, IH), δ

4.50 (d, J=6.0Hz, 2H.

Example 3

A. The préparation of 2-chloro-3-fluoro-N-(4-(2-oxo~l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl) benzamide (3) according to the synthetîc route ofScheme Iii:

B(OH)₂

Scheme IX

O'Bu

Pd(dppf)CI₂, K₂CO₃,

Toluene/H₂O/EtOH 2:1:1

BocHN

70°C

Step 1 - The préparation of 4-(4-(aminomethyl)phenyl)pyridin-2(lH)-one [0177] To a solution of 4-((tert-butoxycarbonylamino)methyl)phenylboronic acid (1 g, 3.98 mmol), potassium carbonate (1.1g, 7.96 mmol), 4-Bromo-2-(t-butoxy)pyridine (1.1g, 4.78 mmol) in degassed toluene/EtOH/water (2:1:1 ) (6 mL) was added [1,1 '-Bis (diphenylphosphino)ferrocene]dichloropalladium (II) (0.14 g, 0.199 mmol). The reaction mixture was then heated in the microwave at 75 °C for 30min. After cooling the mixture, it was purified by silica gel chromatography (eluent: CFfeCh/ethyl acetate 95:5) to yield tertbutyl 4-(2-tert-butoxypyridin-4-yl)benzylcarbamate (1). MS found for CîjHîgNiOî as (M+H)⁺ 356.8. To the above Boc protected compound (462 mg, 1.3 mmol) in CH2CI2 (3 mL), 4.0 M HCl dioxane (1.6 mL, 6.5 mmol) was added and stirred at rt for lh. The reaction mixture was then dîluted with ether and the resulting solids were filtered and washed with ether and dried to give 4-(4-(aminomethyl)phenyl)pyridin-2(lH) -one (2) as hydrochloride sait. C12H12N2O201.0 (M+l).

Siep 2 - Thepréparation of 2-chloro-3-fluoro-N-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl) benzyl)benzamide [0178] To the above amine (50 mg, 0.212 mmol), 2-chloro-3-fluorobenzoic acid (48 mg, 0.276 mmol), HATU (121 mg, 0.318 mmol), in DMF (1 mL) was added NMM (0.06 mL, 0.53 mmol) and stirred at rt for 16 hours. The reaction mixture was diluted with water and acetonitrile and the resulting solid was filtered and washed with ether and dried to give 2chloro-3-fl uoro-jV-(4-(2-oxo -1,2-dihydropyri di n-4-yl)b enzyl)benzam ide.

[0179] MS found for C19H14CIFN2O2 as (M+H)⁺ 357.1 ’H NMR (400MHz, dmso-d₆): δ: 11.56 (br, IH), 9.13 (t, .7=6.0 Hz, IH), 7.68 (d, .7=8.0 Hz, 2H), 7.50-7.42 (m, 4H), 7.32 (d, J=7.2 Hz, 2H); 6.56 (s, IH), 6.50 (d, 7=7.2 Hz, IH); 4.49 (d, .7=6.0 Hz, 2H).

B. Thepréparation of additional compounds of Formula (I) according to the synthetic route of Scheme III:

Thepréparation n of2-chloro-6-methyl-N-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl) benzyl)benzamide (4):

[0180] Compound (4) was prepared using a similar procedure as that described for Compound (3) with the appropriate starting materials. MS found for C20H17CIN2O2 as (M+H)⁺ 353.1 'H NMR (400MHz, dmso-d₆)·. Ô: 11.54 (br, IH), 9.04 (t, 7=6.0 Hz, 1 H), 7.68 (d,7=8.0 Hz, 2H), 7.47 (d, 7=8.0 Hz, 2H), 7.45 (d, 7=7.2 Hz, IH), 7.30-7.19 (m, 3H), 6.56 (s, IH), 6.50 (d, 7=7.2 Hz, IH); 4.49 (d, 7=6.0 Hz, 2H); 2.22 (s, 3H).

The préparation of 2,6-dimethyl-N-(4-(2~oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (5):

[0181] Compound (5) was prepared using a similar procedure as that described for Compound (3) with the appropriate starting materials. MS found for C21H20N2O2 as (M+H)⁺

353.1 'H NMR (400MHz, dmso-d₆): δ: 11.55 (br, IH), 8.86 (t, 7=6.0 Hz, IH), 7.68 (d,7=8.0

Hz, 2H), 7.45-7.40 (m, 3H), 7.16 (t, J=8.0 Hz, IH), 7.02 (d, 7=7.2 Hz, 2H), 6.56 (s, IH), 6.50 (d, 7=7.2 Hz, IH); 4.47 (d, 7=6.0 Hz, 2H); 2.18 (s, 6H).

The préparation of 2,6-Dichloro-N-[4-(6-methyl-2-oxo-l,2~dihydro-pyridin-4-yl)-benzyl] benzamide (6):

[0182] Compound (6) was prepared using a similar procedure as that described for Compound (3) with the appropriate starting materials. ’H-NMR (DMSO) ô: 11.55 (br, IH), 9.21 (t, J=6.0Hz, IH), 7.65 (d, J=8.0Hz, 2H), 7.52-7.40 (m, 5H), 6.38 (s, IH), 6.35 (s, IH),

4.50 (d, J=6.0Hz, 2H), 2.21 (s, 3H). MS: 387/389 (MH⁺).

Example 4

A. The préparation of 2-chloro-3,6-difluoro~N-(4~(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyriditi-4-yl) benzyl)benzamide (7) according to the synthetic route of Schente IV:

Scheme X

Step 1 - Thepréparation ofN-(4-bromobenzyl)-2-chloro-3,6-difluorobenzamide:

[0183] (4-Bromophenyl) methanamine hydrochloride (0,5 g, 2.25 mmol), 2-chloro-3,6 -difluorobenzoic acid (0.52 g, 2.7 mmol), 2-(lH-7-azabenzotriazol-l-yl)-l,l,3,3-tetramethyl uronium hexafluorophosphate methanaminium (HATU) (1.2g, 2.7 mmol), andAJVdiisopropyl-ethylamine (1,17 mL, 6.75mmol) were combined in DMF (6 mL) and then stirred at room température for 1 h. The reaction mixture was diluted in ethyl acetate and washed once with water and twice with an aqueous saturated sodium bicarbonate solution. The organic phase was dried over magnésium sulfate, fiitered and concentrated in vacuum. The crude product was suspended in hot acetonitrile and then fiitered to hâve the pure compound N-(4-bromobenzyl)-2-chloro-3,6-difluorobenzamide.

Step 2 - Thepréparation of2-tert-butoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-l,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl) pyridine:

[0184] 4-Bromo-2-tert-butoxypyridine (1.0 g, 4.34 mmol), pinacoldiboron (1.32 g, 5.2 mmol), potassium acetate (1.28 g, 5.2 mmol) and [1,1 ’ Bîs(diphenylphosphino(ferrocene] dichloropalladium(H) (0.318 g, 0.52 mmol) were dissolved in degassed DMF (8 mL) and H₂O (4 mL). This mixture was heated at 85 °C for 20 min. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc in présence of water. The organic phase was dried over magnésium sulfate, fiitered and concentrated in vacuum. The solids were purified by column (hexone: EtOAc, 3:1) to yield the pure compound 2-tert-butoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-l,3,2 -di oxaborolan-2-yl)pyridine.

Step 3 — The préparation of N-(4-(2-tert-butoxypyridin-4-yl)benzyl)-2-chloro~3,6

-difl uorobenzamide:

[0185] Compound 7V-(4-bromobenzyl)-2-chloro-3,6-difluorobenzamide (0.2 g, 0.55 mmol), 2-tert-butoxy-4-(4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-l,3,2-dioxaborolan-2-yl)pyridine (0.17 g, 0.6 mmol), Cs₂CO₃ (0.54 g, 1.65 mmol), and [1,1 ’ Bis(diphenyl phosphino (ferrocene]dichloro palladium (II) (40 mg, 0.05 mmol) were dissolved in degassed DMF (3 mL) and H₂O (1.5 mL). The reaction mixture was degassed again by bubbling nitrogen through for 15 min and then heated in the microwave at 85 °C for 20min, The reaction mixture was diluted with EtOAc and extracted two times with water. The organic phase was dried over magnésium sulfate, filtered and concentrated in vacuum. The crude product was heated in acetonitrile and the solids filtered to hâve the pure compound A-(4-(2-tert-butoxypyridin-4-yl)benzyl)-2-chloro3,6-difluorobenzamide that was used for next step without further purification.

[0186] The compound N-(4-(2-tert-butoxypyridin-4-yl)benzyl)-2-chloro-3,6difluorobenzamide was re-dissolved in DCM (2 mL) and trifluoroacetic acid (2 mL) and stirred at room température for 1 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated in vacuum and then purified by reverse phase chromatography to afford 2-chloro-3,6-difluoro-7V-(4 -(2-oxo1,2-dihydropyri din-4-yl)benzyl )b enzamide.

[0187] MS found for C₁₉H_I3C1F₂N2O2 as (M+H)⁺ 377.16 'H NMR (400 MHz, dmso-d₆): ^lH-NMR (DMSO) δ: 11.65 (s, IH), 9.36 (t, J=6.0Hz, IH), 7.69 (d,./=8.4Hz, 2H), 7.58-7.52 (m, IH), 7.46-7.37 (m, 4H), 6.61 (s, IH), 6.55-6.53 (m, IH), 4.52 (d,./=5.6Hz, 2H).

B. Thepréparation of additional compounds of Formula (I) according to the synthetic route of Scheme II·':

Thepréparation of 2,6-dichloro-N-(3-methyl-4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl) benzyl)benzamide (8):

Cl .O

Step 1 — The préparation ofN-(4-bromo-3-methylbenzyl)-2,6-dichlorobenzamide:

[0188] 4-Bromo-3-methylphenyl)methanamine (0.1 g, 0.5 mmol), 2,6-dîchlorobenzoic acid (0.11 g, 0.6 mmol), 2-(17f-7-azabenzotriazol-l-yl)-l,l,3,3-tetramethyl uronium hexafluorophosphate methanaminium (HATU) (0.23 g, 0.6 mmol), and N,N

Diisopropylethylamine (0.2 mL, l .25 mmol) were combined in DMF (3 mL) and then stirred at room température until reaction was completed. Compound was precipitated by the addition of water and aqueous saturated solution of sodium bicarbonate. The précipitâtes were collected by filtration and then re-suspended in hot acetonitrile. When the solution was cooled down the solids were collected by filtration to hâve the pure compound N-(4 -bromo3-methylbenzyl)-2,6-dichlorobenzamide that was used for next step without further purification.

Step 2— The préparation of2,6-dichloro-N-(3~methyl-4~(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl) benzytybenzamide [0189] N-(4-Bromo-3-methylbenzyl)-2,6-dichlorobenzamide (0.13 g, 0.35 mmol), 2-oxo -l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yIboronic acid (0.053 g, 0.39 mmol), césium carbonate (0.34 g, 1.05 mmol), [1,1 * Bis(diphenylphosphino(ferrocene]dichloropalladium(II) (25 mg, 0.035 mmol) were dissolved in degassed DMF (3 mL) and H₂O (1.5 mL). The reaction mixture was degassed again by bubbling nitrogen through for 15 min then heated in the microwave at 85 °C for 20 min. The reaction mixture was diluted with EtOAc and extracted three times with water. The organic phase was dried over magnésium sulfate, filtered and concentrated in vacuum. The resulting solid was purifîed by reverse phase chromatography to afford 2,6dichloro-A-(3-methyl-4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl) benzyl)benzamide.

[0190] MS found for C₂oH₁₆C1₂N₂0₂ as (M+H)⁺ 389.13 ‘H NMR (400MHz, dmso-d₆)'. ^lHNMR (DMSO) S: 11.62 (s, 1H), 9.18 (t, J=6.4Hz, 1 H), 7.51-4.49 (m, 2H), 7.44-7.37 (m, 2H), 7.3 (s, 2H), 7.26 (d, J=7.6Hz, 1 H), 7.17 (d, J=7.6Hz, 1 H), 6.18 (s, 1 H), 6.15-6.13 (m, 1 H), 4.46 (d, J=6.0Hz, 1H), 2.24 (s, 3H).

The préparation of 2,6-dichloro-N-(4-(l-methyl-2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl) benzytybenzamide (9):

Cl

O

O [0191] Compound (9) was prepared using a similar procedure as that described for

Compound (8) with the appropriate starting materials. MS found for C₂oHi6CI₂N₂0₂: 387 (MH⁺); ’H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 9.21 (t, J=6.0Hz, 1H), δ 7.74(d, J= 7.2Hz, 1H), δ 7.69 (d, J=

8.4Hz, 2H), δ 7.46 (m, 5H), δ 6.66 (d, J=2.0Hz, IH), δ 6.56 (dd, J=6.8Hz, J’=2.0Hz, IH), δ

4.50 (d, J=5.6Hz, 2H), δ 3.43 (s, 3H).

Thepréparation of 2,6-difluoro-N-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (10):

F O

O [0192] Compound (10) was prepared using a similar procedure as that described for

Compound (8) with the appropriate starting materials. MS found for C^Hi^NzOh: 341 (MH⁺); ‘H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 11.56 (s, IH), δ 9.29 (t, J=6.0Hz, IH), δ 7.68 (d, J= 8.0Hz, 2H), δ 7.51 (m, IH), δ 7.42 (m, 3H), δ 7.17 (m, 2H), δ 6.57 (d, J= 1.2Hz, IH), δ 6.49 (dd, J=6.8Hz, J’=1.6Hz, IH), δ 4.50 (d, J=6.0Hz, 2H).

Thepréparation of 2-chloro-6-fluoro-N-(4-(2-oxo-l, 2-dihydropyridin-4-yl) benzyl)benzamide (11):

[0193] Compound (11) was prepared using a similar procedure as that described for Compound (8) with the appropriate starting materials. MS found for CigHuCIFNiCb: 357 (MH⁺); 'H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 11.56 (s, 1 H), δ 9.29 (t, J=4.8Hz, 1 H), δ 7.70 (d, J= 7.6Hz,

2H), δ 7.41 (m, 6H), δ 6.59 (s, IH), ô 6.52 (d, J=6.4Hz, IH), δ 4.53 (d, J=5.6Hz, 2H).

The préparation of 2,6-dichloro-N-(2-fluoro-4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl) benzyl)benzamide (12):

[0194J Compound (12) was prepared using a similar procedure as that described for

Compound (8) with the appropriate starting materials. MS found for CjtjHiaChFNjCh: 391 (MH⁺); *H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 11.62 (s, IH), δ 9.23 (t, J=5.6Hz, IH), δ 7.57 (m, 3H), δ 7.50 (m, 2H), ô 7.43 (m, 2H), Ô 6.63 (d, J=1.2Hz, IH), δ 6.52 (dd, J=6.8Hz, J’=1.6Hz, IH), δ 4.51 5 (d, J=6.0Hz, 2H).

The préparation of 2,6-dichloro-N-(4-(5-fluoro-2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl) benzyl)benzamide (13):

Cl O

O [0195] Compound (13) was prepared using a similar procedure as that described for

Compound (8) with the appropriate starting materials. MS found for CigHnChFNîOï: 391 (MH⁺); 'H NMR (DMSO-d₆): δ 11.27 (s, 1 H), δ 9.23 (t, J=6.0Hz, IH), δ 7.80 (d, >4.0Hz,

IH), δ 7.50 (m, 7H), ô 6.53 (d, J=6.4Hz, IH), δ 4.52 (d, J=6.0Hz, 2H).

Example 5

The préparation of phosphorie acid mono-(4-{4-[(2,6~dichloro-benzoylamino)-methyl] ~phenyl}-2-oxo-2H-pyridin-l-ylmethyl) ester (14) according to the synthetic route of

Scheme V:

Scheme XI

70°C, 4h

Step 1 — The préparation of 2,6-dichloro-N-[4-(l-chloromethyl-2-oxo-l,2-dihydro -pyridin-4yl)-benzyl] -benzami de [0196] 2,6-Dichloro-/V-[4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydro-pyridin-4-yl)-benzyl]-benzamide (1.62g, 4.34 mmol) was suspended in 15 mL dichloromethone. Chloromethylchloroformate (0.672g, 5.21 mmol) was added followed by 3 mL DMF. The mixture was stirred at room température for five hours. After diluting with 200 mL ethyl acetate, the organic phase was washed with saturated, aqueous sodium bicarbonate solution and brine, dried with magnésium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude 2,6-dichloro-/V-[4-(l -chloromethyl-2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)-benzyl]-benzamide was used in the following step without further purification.

Step 2 — The préparation ofphosphoric acid di-tert-butyl ester 4-{4-[(2,6-dichloro -benzoylaminofm ethyl] -phenyl}-2-oxo-2H-pyridin-l-ylmethyl ester [0197] 2,6-Dichloro-A-[4-(l-chloromethyl-2-oxo-l,2-dihydro-pyridin-4-yl)-benzyl] -benzamide from the previous step was dissolved in 50 mL DMF. Potassium carbonate (lg) was added followed by potassium di(t-butyl)phosphate (2g) and tetrabutylammonium iodide (50mg). The mixture was stirred at 70 °C for four hours after which it was poured into 300 mL ethyl acetate. The organic phase was washed with water and brine, dried with magnésium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was further purified by silica gel chromatography (eluent: ethyl acetate), giving phosphoric acid di-tert-butyl ester 4-{4-[(2,6dichloro-benzoylamino)-methyl]-phenyl} -2-oxo-2H-pyridin-l-ylmethyl ester as a colorless oil which slowly crystallized.

Step 3 — Thepréparation of phosphoric acid mono-(4-{4~[(2,6-dichloro-benzoylamino) -methyl]-phenyl}-2-oxo-2H-pyridin-î-ylmethyl) ester [0198] Phosphoric acid di-tert-butyl ester 4-{4-((2,6-dichloro-benzoyiamino)-methyl] -phenyl}-2-oxo-2H-pyridin-l-ylmethyl ester from the previous step was dissolved in 20 mL acetonitrile, 20 mL acetic acid and 20 mL water, and heated at 70 °C for four hours. Ail volatile components were evaporated under vacuum and the residue was dissolved in 10 mL DMF. Slow addition of acetonitrile (~60 mL) precipitated the product which was filtered, washed with more acetonitrile and dried, giving phosphoric acid mono-(4-{4 -[(2,6-dichlorobenzoylamino)-methyl]-phenyl}-2-oxo-2H-pyridin-l-ylmethyl) ester (1.17g, 56% over three steps) as a white powder.

101991 ‘H-NMR (DMSO) δ: 9.23 (t, J=6.2Hz, 1H), 7.73 (d, J=8.4Hz, 2H), 7.71 (d, J=8.4Hz, 1H), 7.52-7.40 (m, 5H), 6.72 (d, J=1.6Hz, 1H), 6.65 (dd, J=7.2Hz, J=1.6Hz, 1H), 5.61 (d, J=9.6Hz, 2H), 4.52 (d, J=6.4Hz, 2H). MS: 483/485 (MH ⁺).

Examplc 6

2,6-dimethyl-N-(4-(2-oxopiperidin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide

To a solution of 2,6-dimethyl-N-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide (see compound 5 of example 3B) in ethanoi/methanol (5:1), 10%Pd/C was added and the mixture was hydrogenated (1 atm) at 23 °C for 12 hours. The catalyst was filtered through celite pad and washed with methanol. Filtrate and washings were combined and the solvent was then concentrated and chromatographed (SiO2, 3-15% EtOAc/MeOH) to provide the title compound. MS found for C21H24N2O2 as (M+H)⁺ 337.1 'H NMR (400MHz, dmso-d₍f. δ: 8.76 (t, J = 5.6 Hz, 1H); 7.52 (brs, 1H), 7.27-7.14 (m, 4H); 7.13-6.99 (m, 3H); 4.40 (d, J = 6.4 Hz, 2H); 3.23-3.16 (m, 2H); 3003-2.98 (m, 1H); 2.35-2.21 (m 2H); 2.17 (s, 6H); 1.88-1.78 (m, 2H).

Example 7 [0200] Hard gelatin capsules containing the following ingrédients are prepared:

Quant ity

Ingrédient

Active Ingrédient

Starch (mg/capsule)

30.0

305,0

Magnésium stéarate 5.0

The above ingrédients are mixed and filled into hard gelatin capsules.

Example 8 [0201] A tablet of a compound of Formula (I) is prepared using the ingrédients below:

Quantity

Ingrédient	(mg/tablet)
Active Ingrédient	25.0
Cellulose, microcrystalline	200.0
Colloïdal silicon dioxide	10.0

Stearic acid

5.0

The components are blended and compressed to form tablets.

Example 9 [0202] A dry powder inhaler formulation is prepared containing the following components:

Ingrédient

Active Ingrédient

Lactose

Weight % |0203] The active ingrédient is mixed with the lactose and the mixture is added to a dry powder inhaling appliance.

Example 10 [0204] Tablets, each containing 30 mg of active ingrédient, are prepared as follows:

	Quantity
Ingrédient	(mg/tablet)
Active Ingrédient	30.0 mg
Starch	45.0 mg
Microcrystalline cellulose	35.0 mg
Polyvinylpyrrolidone
(as 10% solution in stérile water)	4.0 mg
Sodium carboxymethyl starch	4.5 mg
Magnésium stéarate	0.5 mg
Talc	1.0 mg
Total	120 mg

[0205] The active ingrédient, starch, and cellulose are passed through a No. 20 mesh U.S. sieve and mixed thoroughly. The solution of polyvinylpyrrolidone is mixed with the résultant powders, which are then passed through a 16 mesh U.S. sieve. The granules so produced are dried at 50 °C to 60 °C and passed through a 16 mesh U.S. sieve. The sodium carboxymethyl starch, magnésium stéarate, and talc, previously passed through a No. 30 mesh U.S. sieve, are then added to the granules which, after mîxing, are compressed on a tablet machine to yield tablets each weighing 120 mg.

Examplc 11 [0206] Suppositoires, each containing 25 mg of active ingrédient, are made as follows:

Ingrédient

Active Ingrédient

Saturated fatty acid glycerides to

Amount mg

2,000 mg [0207] The active ingrédient is passed through a No. 60 mesh U.S. sieve and suspended in the saturated fatty acid glycerides previously melted using the minimum heat necessary. The mixture is then poured into a suppository mold of nominal 2.0 g capacity and allowed to cool.

Example 12 [0208] Suspensions, each containing 50 mg of active ingrédient per 5.0 mL dose, are made as follows:

Ingrédient	Amount
Active Ingrédient	50.0 mg
Xanthan gum	4.0 mg
Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (11%)
Microcrystalline cellulose (89%)	50.0 mg
Sucrose	1.75 g
Sodium benzoate	10.0 mg
Flavor and Color	q.v.
Purified water to	5.0 mL

[0209] The active ingrédient, sucrose and xanthan gum are blended, passed through a No. 10 mesh U.S. sieve, and then mixed with a previously made solution of the microcrystalline cellulose and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose in water. The sodium benzoate, flavor, and color are diluted with some of the water and added with stirring. Sufïicient water is then added to produce the required volume.

Example 13 [0210] A subcutoneous formulation may be prepared as follows:

Ingrédient

Active Ingrédient

Corn Oil

Quanti ty

5.0 mg

1.0 mL

Example 14 [0211] An injectable préparation is prepared having the following composition:

Ingrédients

Active ingrédient

Mannîtol, USP

Gluconic acid, USP

Amount

2.0 mg/mL mg/mL

q.s. (pH 5-6) water (distîlled, stérile)

Nitrogen Gas, N F

q.s. to l .0 mL

q.s.

Example 15 [0212] A topical préparation is prepared having the following composition:

Ingrédients grams

Active ingrédient 0.01-1

Span 602.0

Tween 602.0

Minerai oil5.0

Petrolatum0.10

Methyl paraben0.15

Propyl paraben0.05

BHA (butylated hydroxy anisole)0,01

Water q.s. to 100 [0213] Ail of the above ingrédients, except water, are combined and heated to 60 °C with stirring. A sufficient quantity of water at 60 °C is then added with vigorous stirring to emulsify the ingrédients, and water then added q.s. 100 g.

Example 16

Sustained Release Composition

Weight

Ingrédient Range (%) Range 1 (%) Range 2 (%)

Active ingrédient	50-95	70-90	75
Microcrystalline cellulose (filler)	1-35	5-15 1	0.6
Methacrylic acid copolymer	1-35	5-12.5	10.0
Sodium hydroxide	0.1-1.0	0.2-0.6	0.4
Hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose	0.5-5.0	1-3	2.0
Magnésium stéarate	0.5-5.0	1-3	2.0

[0214] The sustained release formulations are prepared as follows: compound and pH-dependent binder and any optional excipients are intimately mixed (dry-blended). The dry-blended mixture is then granulated in the presence of an aqueous solution of a strong base which is sprayed into the blended powder. The granulate is dried, screened, mixed with optional lubricants (such as talc or magnésium stéarate), and compressed into tablets. Certain aqueous solutions of strong bases are solutions of alkali métal hydroxides, such as sodium or potassium hydroxide, preferably sodium hydroxide, in water (optionally containing up to 25% of water-miscible solvents such as lower alcohols).

[0215] The resultîng tablets may be coated with an optional film-forming agent, for identification, taste-masking purposes and to improve ease of swallowing. The film forming agent will typically be présent in an amount ranging from between 2% and 4% of the tablet weight. Suitable film-forming agents are well known to the art and include hydroxypropyl, methylcellulose, cationic méthacrylate copolymers (dimethylami no ethyl méthacrylate/ methyl-butyl méthacrylate copolymers - Eudragit® E - Rôhm. Pharma) and the like. These film-forming agents may optionally contain colorants, plasticizers, and other supplémentai ingrédients.

|0216] The compressed tablets preferably hâve a hardness sufficient to withstand 8 Kp compression. The tablet size will dépend primarily upon the amount of compound in the tablet. The tablets will include from 300 to 1100 mg of compound free base. Preferably, the tablets will include amounts of compound free base ranging from about 10-200 mg, 100-300 mg, or 400-600 mg.

|0217] In order to influence the dissolution rate, the time during which the compound containing powder is wet mixed is controlled. Preferably the total powder mix time, i.e., the time during which the powder is exposed to sodium hydroxide solution, will range from 1 to 10 minutes and preferably from 2 to 5 minutes. Following granulation, the particles are removed from the granulator and placed in a fluid bed dryer for drying at about 60°C.

Examplc 17 [0218] ALDH2 Assays

Standard ALDH2 reaction mixtures contained 150 uM formaldéhyde, 2.5 mM NAD⁺, 10 mM MgC12 and 10 nM recombinant human ALDH2 in 50 mM Hepes buffer, pH 7.4, 0.01%Tween 20 in a final volume of 50 ul using 384-well plates. After 60 min of preincubation of compound with ALDH2 and formaldéhyde, the reaction was started by adding

NAD+ and the reaction mixture was allowed to proceed for 90 minutes. Activity of the enzyme was determined by monitoring NADH formation using Perkin-Elmer Envision Reader with excitation and émission wavelengths set at 340 and 460 nm, respectively.

MAO-A and MAO-B Assays

MAO assays included luminogenic MAO substrate, reaction bufters, Luciferin Détection and the reconstitution buffer with esterase. Standard MAO reaction mixtures included microsome contained MAO-A (2 ug) or MAO-B (10 ug), l60uM substrate for MAO-A or l6uM substrate for MAO-B, MAO-A buffer (100 mM Hepes buffer, pH 7.5, 5% glycerol) or MAOB buffer (100 mM Hepes, pH 7.5, 5% glycerol, 10% dimethyl sulfoxide) in a final volume of 30 ul. After 20 minutes of pre-incubation of the enzyme with compounds, the reaction was initiated by adding enzyme substrate and the reaction was allowed to proceed for 60 minutes. Reconstituted Luciferin Détection Reagent (30 ul) was then added is added to simultaneously stop the MAO reaction and convert the methyl ester dérivative to luciferin and produce light. The amount of light produced is directly proportional to the activity of MAO. The mixtures were further incubated for 20 minutes and activity of the enzyme was determined using Perkin-Elmer Envision Reader.

Note: IC50 refers to the concentration of a compound that inhibits a reaction by 50%. ln the case of compétitive inhibition, IC50 = 2Ki when the substrate is présent at the Km concentration, as per the relationship: Ki = IC50/[ 1 + (substrate concentration/Km)].

[0219] Représentative data for several compounds are presented in Table 1 below.

TABLE 1 - ALDH-2 AND MAO INHIBITION
NUMBER	COMPOUND	ic_so HALDI12 NM	IC_ÎO HMAO-A μΜ	IC_M HMAO-B μΜ
1	2,6-dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy)-7V-(4-(2-oxo -1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide	63	>130	>130
2	2,6-dichloro-JV-[4-(2-oxo-1,2-dihydrO'pyridin -4-yl)-benzyl]-benzamide	102	>130	>130

TABLE 1 - ALDH-2 AND MAO INHIBITION
NUMBER	COMPOUND	IC_S0 HALDII2 NM	IC_5O HMAO-A pM	IC50 I1MAO-B pM
3	2-chloro-3-fluoro-A^r-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-di hydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide	215	>130	>130
4	2-chloro-6-melhyl-jV-(4-(2-oxo-1,2-di hydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide	23	>130	>130
5	2,6-dimethyl-AÎ-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4 -yl)benzyl)benzamide	166	>130	>130
6	2,6-dichloro-A^f-[4-(6-methyl-2-oxo-l,2-diliydro -pyridin-4-yl) -benzy 1] -benzamide	1113	>130	>130
7	2-chloro-3,6-difluoro-7V-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-di hydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzatuide	464	>130	>130
8	2,6-dichloro-/V-(3-niethyl-4-(2-oxo-l,2-di hydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzaniide	480	>130	>130
9	2,6-dichloro-jV-(4-( l-methyl-2-oxo-l,2-di hydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzaniide	2093	>130	>130
10	2,6-difluoro-Y-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4 -yl)benzyl)benzamide	890	>130	>130
11	2-chloro-â-fluoro-Y-(4-(2-oxo-l ,2-di hydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide	379	>130	>130
12	2,6-diciiloro-jV-(2 - fl uoro-4-(2-oxo-1,2-di hydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamÎde	304	>130	>130
13	2,6-dichloro-Af-(4-(5-fluoro-2-cxo-l,2-di hydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzaniide	25	>130	>130
14	phosphoric acid mono-(4-{4-[(2,6dîchloro-benzoylamino)-methyl]-phenyl}-2 -oxo-2H-pyridin-1 -ylmethyl) ester	>10000.00	>129.51	>130

The above data suggests that compounds of the invention generally inhibit the ALDH2 enzyme with an IC50 of less than l uM.

Example 18

Réduction of Alcohol Dependency [0220] Animais: The strains of alcohol-preferring rats are housed individually in stainlesssteel wire mesh cages (26'34 '20 cm) under constant température of 21 ± 1°C and reversed 12 hour light-12 hour dark cycle (10:00-22:00 dark). These rats consume significantly more alcohol than their respective control strains: the selectively-bred alcohol non-preferring (NP), the low alcohol-drinking (LAD) rat, and the Wistar rat. The FH and P rats are derived from the Wistar rat. Water and food (Agway Prolab Rat/Mouse/Hamster 3000 formula, Agway, Syracuse, USA) are provided ad lib.

[0221] Establishment of Baseline: Following the standard method (Murphy et al., 1988; Rezvani and Grady, 1994; Rezvani et al., 1995), alcohol-preferring rats are given 1 day access to water in a Richter tube followed by 3 days of free access to a solution of 10% (v/v) éthanol given as the only source of fluid. Thereafter, the rats are given a choîce between alcohol and water for the remainder of the study. Ail experiments involve 24 hour free access to food, water, and alcohol in a two-bottle choice paradigm.

[0222] Experimental Protocol: After establishment of a stable baseline for alcohol and water intakes, animais are maintained on a continuous access to alcohol and water via a twobottle choice paradigm for about 2 months. Then, rats receive a single i.p. injection of the saline vehicle, or a test compound at 09:30 am. Alcohol and water intakes are measured at 6 and 24 hours after the injection. Food intake is measured 24 hours after the injection.

[0223] Chronic Systemic Administration: A chronic experiment is conducted with adult male P rats. After establishment of stable baselines for alcohol and water intakes, and following a cross-over design, the test drug or vehicle is given i.p. once a day for 10 consecutive days. Alcohol and water intakes are measured at 6 and 24 hours after the treatment, whereas food intake is measured 24 hours after the treatment. Each rat receives both treatments, and a washout period of 3 days is imposed between treatments.

[0224] Statistical Analysis: The results are expressed as means ± standard error of means (SEM). Alcohol intake (g/kg) is calculated by multiplying the volume of alcohol consumed by 10% and 0.7893 (éthanol density)/animal body weight in kg. Alcohol preference, expressed as a percentage, is calculated as follows: (volume of alcohol consumed in mL/total fluid intake in mL) x 100 (Rezvani et al., 1990; Rezvani and Grady, 1994). Statistical différences between different groups are determined using analysis of variance followed by Newman-Keuls protected t-test.

Rat alcohol self administration

Alcohol-preferring (iP) male rats were trained to daily (Monday to Friday) self-administer alcohol (10% v/v) under opérant conditions. A fixed-ratio of 3 (FR3), where rats had to press a lever 3 fîmes to get one drop of alcohol during 20-min sessions was used (Cowen et al, 2005a; Cowen et al., 2005b; Lawrence et al., 2006). Availability of alcohol was conditioned by the presence of an olfactory eue (2 drops of vanilla essence, placed on the bedding of the opérant chamber directly under the active lever), plus a 1-sec light stimulus when FR3 was obtained. For each session, total alcohol and water responses were recorded. Following acquisition of lever pressing behavior and stable alcohol self-administration, rats were administered oral vehicle or compound of Example 5 (5, 10 and 30 mg-eq/kg) 1 hr before each session in a counterbalanced order. Every rat received ail drug doses and vehicle once per week in a randomly assigned order. Compound of Example 5 at 10 and 30 mg-eq/kg significantly decreased the number of lever presses for alcohol (Figure 1).

Example 19

Réduction of Cocaïne Dependency and Relapse [0225] Intravenous cocaïne (0.35mg/kg/inj) is used in an opérant self administration and reinstatement mode! in rats. In this model, rats addicted to cocaïne repeatedly press a lever to obtain an intravenous dose (iv) of cocaïne. When cocaïne is removed, rats stop pressing the lever. However, rats résumé lever pressing for cocaïne (reinstatement) if subjected to a small intraperitoneal (ip) dose (lOmg/kg) of cocaïne that normally has no effect in naïve animais. This îs a valid animal model of relapse in cocaïne addicted humans, and tests the ability of the compounds of Formula (I) to block cocaïne craving and relapse.

[0226] Male Sprague-Dawley rats with jugular vein catheterization are used. Rats are presented with a choice of two levers in the test/training chamber. Dépréssion of the active lever results in delivery of a cocaïne reinforcer, while dépréssion of the inactive lever does not resuit in reinforcement. During the initial 15 hour fixed ratio (FR) 1 training session (FRI stands for one lever press equals one reinforcement delivery), a food pellet is taped to the active lever to facilitate lever pressing, and each active lever press results in the delivery of a single 45 mg food pellet (Noyés, Lancaster, NH). The following day the reinforcer is switched to FRI lever pressing for cocaïne (0.35 mg/kg/inj, delivered in 0.27 sec). Cocaïne reinforcement is delivered on a modified FRI schedule such that each drug infusion is accompanied by illumination of a stimulus over the active lever and a 20 second timeout during which active lever presses are counted but do not resuit in reinforcer delivery. After 20 seconds the stimulus light is tumed off and the first lever press again results in drug delivery. Dépréssion of the inactive lever does not hâve any conséquence. Daily training sessions for each group lasts 2 hours, or until a subject eams 200 drug infusions, whichever cornes first. The subjects romain in drug self-administration training mode until acquisition criterion is met (average presses on the active lever varied by < 10% over 3 consecutive training days). This typically takes 10-14 days.

Extinction and Reinstatement [0227] For extinction and reinstatement experiments, rats are required to display stable responding (variability not higher than 15% in 2 consecutive sessions) on the FRI schedule of reinforcement. After achieving these criteria, extinction procedures begin such that lever presses no longer resuit in delivery of the reinforcer. When average responding across three consecutive extinction sessions falls to 15% of responding during maintenance, subjects are tested for reinstatement. In ***e-experienced animais, reinstatement is primed with a noncontingent injection of cocaïne (10 mg/kg ip) immediately before the reinstatement session. In order to increase statistical power and therefore decrease animal usage, a second extinction period is initiated 3-4 days after the first, which allows for additional within-subjects comparisons. Experiments use a between-session-training and testing method in which animais are trained to self administer drug. Their behavior is then extinguished and then reinstatement is primed on different days.

Results: Effect of Compounds of Formula (I) on cocaïne induced relapse [0228] Ip injections of the compounds of Formula (I) dose dependently block relapse for cocaïne. Animais are trained to self administer cocaïne (0.35 mg/kg/inj) until they reach stable responding. They are then trained in the same chambers but cocaïne is no longer available. Once they drop their lever presses responding to a minimal level (extinction), they are then given a primîng dose of cocaïne (10 mg/kg) and consequently their responding lever presses significantly increase (relapse). Those same animais receiving effective compounds of Formula (I) prior to the priming injection of cocaïne do not show an increase in their lever presses responding (did not relapse).

Rat Cocaïne Cue Reinstatement

Training of male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats had 3 separate stages. First, during self administration, animais were trained to lever press for cocaïne with présentation of concomitant eues associated with drug delivery. Rats that reached criteria for addiction were included in the study. Afterward, during cue extinction, ***e-cue dépendent behavior was extinguished. Lastly, during cocaïne cue reinstatement, the effect of compounds was tested on lever presses upon cue présentation (Fig. 2).

Cocaïne self administration

Rats were trained to self administer i.v. cocaïne (0.35 mg/kg/injection) daily (Monday to Friday) în standard opérant chambers with rétractable levers (Coulboum Instruments, PA). During the daily 2 hr session, rats received a 0.05 ml infusion of 0.35 mg/kg cocaïne every time the active lever was pressed. A cue light and tone tumed on for 2 sec together with activation of a pump that delïvered the cocaïne solution. Rats were required to maintain an infusion rate of > 20+ per day for at least 10 days before being moved to extinction training. Rats that did not reach this criterion were excluded from the study.

Cue extinction

During extinction sessions lever presses no longer produced cocaïne infusion and cue light/tone présentation was absent. Rats received a maximum of 15 extinction sessions. Rats were considered to hâve extinguished behavior when during 2 consecutive sessions they exhibited an average of < 15 active lever presses or 30% of the number of responses per session that occurred during the last 2 sessions of cocaïne self-administration, whichever came first.

Cocaïne cue reinstatement

On the next day after reaching extinction criteria, rats were treated orally with vehicle (Formulation 2B: 25% PEG400/5% Vit E TPGS/l% SLS/69% water with 0.5% Methocel) or drug (compound of Example 2 or compound of Example 5) before the cue reinstatement session. Cue reinstatement began with a tone and cue light. This 2 hr session was identical to the self-admïnistration session (cue light and tone présent upon active lever press) except that no cocaïne was delivered. The number of active lever presses was compared to extinction lever responding. This is considered a measure of reinstatement. The next day, rats were retumed to extinction sessions for at least 2 or 3 more sessions. Rats then received a second and last reinstatement session with an opposite treatment to the one received on the first reinstatement session (vehicle or dru g treatment). When rats pretreated with vehicle are presented with eues associated with cocaïne availability, they significantly increase their number of lever presses. The light/tone présentation triggers this response and it is interpreted as a measure of reinstatement even though cocaïne is not available.

Compound of Example 2 significantly reduced cocaïne cue-induced reinstatement in SD rats by 69%, 72% and 86% at 5, 10 and 30 mg/kg, respectively, when compared to vehicle (Figure 3). An ANOVA revealed a significant effect of treatment on number of lever presses. A significant effect of treatment was observed for ail doses tested (p<0.001). Fisher post-hoc comparisons showed that rats treated with vehicle prior to eue reinstatement session had a significant increase in number of lever presses when compared with extinction session (p< 0.05). After treatment with compound of Example 2 (5, 10 or 30 mg/kg) prior to eue reinstatement session, rats significantly decreased lever presses responding compared with vehicle treatment (69% inhibition: p<0.05, 72% inhibition: p<0.05 and 86% inhibition: p<0.0l, respectively). #p < 0.01 compared with extinction; * p<0.05 and ** p < 0.01 compared with vehicle.

The prodrug compound of Example 5 was efficacious at 5,10 and 30 mg-eq/kg in cocaïne eue reinstatement with 59%, 55% and 50% inhibition, respectively (Figure 4). At the lowest dose tested, 2.5 mg-eq/kg, the effect was not significantly different from vehicle.

Compound of Example 5 reduced cocaïne cue-induced reinstatement in SD rats. The number of lever presses was recorded during the 2 hr cue-induced reinstatement session. An ANOVA revealed a significant effect of treatment on number of lever presses. Rats that had extinguished lever press responding were treated with oral vehicle and compound of Example 5 (2.5,5, 10 or 30 mg-eq/kg) 1 hr before the cue-induced reinstatement session. A significant effect of treatment was observed for 2.5, 5, 10 and 30 mg-eq/kg doses tested (2.5 mg/kg eq: F(2,28)= 9.39, p<0.01, n=15', 5 mg/kg eq: F(2,14)=11,47, p<0.01, n =8‘, 10 mg/kg eq: F(2, 18)=13,901, p<0.001, n =10\ 30 mg/kg eq: F(2, 22)=18.221, ρθ.001, n =12). Fisher posthoc comparisons revealed that rats treated with vehicle prior to eue reinstatement session showed a significant increase in number of lever presses when compared with extinction session (p< 0.01). After treatment with compound of Example 5 (5,10 or 30 mg/kg) prior to eue reînstatement session, rats significantly decreased lever presses responding compared with vehicle treatment (59% inhibition: p<0.05,55% inhibition: p<0.01 and 50% inhibition: p<0.01, respectively). Fisher post-hoc comparisons revealed that 2.5 mg/kg eq dose was not significantly different from vehicle (30% inhibition, p>0.05, N.S.). #p < 0.01 compared with extinction; * p<0.05 and ** p< 0.01 compared with vehicle).

Examplc 20

Réduction of Nicotine Dependency [0229] Biological Material: Wistar-derived male rats (250-300 g) are housed in groups of two and maintained in a temperature-controlled environment on a 12 hour:12 hour light cycle (0600h on-1800h off), upon arrivai in the laboratory. Animais are given free access to food and water during a one-week habituation period to the laboratory. Animais used in the research studies are handled, housed, and sacrificed in accord with the current NIH guidelines regarding the use and care of laboratory animais, and ail applicable local, state, and fédérai régulations and guidelines. Animais are handled daily for several days to desensitize them to handling stress before experimental testing. Sample sizes (e.g., n=8) are sufficient to provide reliable estimâtes of drug effects.

[0230] Drug Treatments: The Wistar-derived rats receive several doses of the compounds of Formula (I) administered intraperitonealy (i.p.), and a positive control compound, mecamylamine (1.5 mg/kg, subcutaneously (s.c.). The compounds are administered 30 minutes prior to SA sessions. The compounds of Formula (I) are administered at 2 mL/kg for the 7.5 mg/kg (3.75 mg/mL) and 10 mg/kg (5 mg/mL), doses, and at 3 mL/kg for the 15 mg/kg dose (5 mg/mL). The compound is dissolved in corn oil (VEH), and sonicated for at least 30-minutes, up to 2 hours prior to administration. Mecamylamine is dissolved in 0.09% isotonie saline and administered at a volume of 1 mL/kg.

[0231] Apparatus: Food training and nicotine self-administration takes place in 8 standard Coulboum opérant chambers. Each chamber is housed in a sound-attenuated box. Opérant chambers are equipped with two levers; mounted 2 cm above the floor, and a eue light mounted 2 cm above the right lever on the back wall of the chamber. For food training, a food hopper is located 2-cm to the left/right of either lever, in the middle of the back wall.

Intravenous infusions are delivered in a volume of 0.1 mL over a 1 second interval via an infusion pump (Razel, CT) housed outside of the sound attenuated chamber.

[0232] Food Training: Lever pressing is established as demonstrated by the method of Hyytia et al., (1996). Initially, rats are restricted to 15 grams of food daily (approximately 85% of their free-feeding body weight). After the second day of food restriction, rats are trained to respond for food under a fixed-ratio 1 (FRI) schedule of reinforcement (1 food pellet for each lever press) with a 1 second time-out (TO-ls) after each reinforcement. Training sessions are given twice per day, and TO periods are gradually increased to 20 seconds. Once rats obtain a steady baseline responding at a FRl-TO20s schedule of reinforcement, they are retumed to ad libitum food prior to préparation for intravenous jugular cathéter implant surgery.

[0233] Surgery: Rats are anesthetized with a ketamine/xylazine mixture and chronic silastic jugular cathéters are inserted into the extemal jugular vein and passed subcutaneously to a polyethylene assembly mounted on the animal’s back. The cathéter assembly consists ofa 13-cm length of silasitic tubing (inside diameter 0.31 mm; outside diameter 0.64 mm), attached to a guide cannula that is bent at a right angle. The cannula is embedded into a dental cernent base and anchored with a 2 x 2 cm square of durable mesh. The cathéter is passed subcutaneously from the rats back to the jugular vein where it is inserted and secured with a non-absorbable silk suture. Upon successful completion of surgery, rats are given 3-5 days to recover before self -administration sessions are started. During the recovery period, rats remain ad libitum food access, and hâve cathéter lines flushed daily with 30 units/mL of heparinized saline containing 66 mg/mL of Timentin to prevent blood coagulation and infection in the cathéters.

[0234] Nicotine Self-Administration: Following successful recovery from cathéter implant surgery, rats are again food deprived to 85% of their free-feeding body weight. Once selfadministration sessions begin, subjects are trained to IV self-administer nicotine in 1-hour baseline sessions, 5 days per week, under a FRI -TO-20 schedule of reinforcement until stable responding is achieved. Stable responding is defined as less than 20% variability across 3 consecutive sessions. After acquisition of stable responding for nicotine, various doses of the compounds of Formula (I) are tested using a within-subjects Latin square design. Rats are allowed to self -administer nicotine after treatment with each dose of the compounds of Formula (I) for 1 test session, and subsequently “rebaselined” for 1-3 days before the next dose probe during one test self-administrations sessions, Following the testing of the first compound, rats receive the positive control compound, mecamylamine (1.5 mg/kg), adminîstered according to a crossover design.

[0235] During SA sessions, rats are flushed with saline before test session to ensure cathéter patency, and again flushed after test sessions with 30 units/mL of heparinized saline containing 66 mg/mL of Timentin, to prevent blood coagulation and infection in the cathéters. If cathéter patency is in question, as demonstrated by an unexpected shift in response rates, or inability to draw blood from the cathéter, 0.1 mL of a short-acting anesthetic (Brevital) is infused. Animais with patent cathéters exhibit rapid loss of muscle tone within 3-seconds. Rats with cathéters no longer patent according to the Brevital test are removed from the experiment.

[0236] Data Analysis: Data is collected on-line from multiple opérant chambers, and reported as mean cumulative number of bar presses for nicotine. The data is analyzed using the StatView statistical package on a PC-compatible computer.

Results: The Effect of Compounds on Nicotine Self Administration:

[0237J Increasing doses of the compounds of Formula (I) administered as described in the above protocol reduce the number of bar presses (plotted as the number of infusions) for nicotine administration.

Rat nicotine self administration

Acute treatment

Male SD rats were trained to self administer i.v. nicotine (0.03 mg/kg/inj) daily (Monday to Friday) in standard opérant chambers with rétractable levers (MED Associâtes, Inc) as previously published (Levin et al., 2003; Levin et al., 2007). During the daily 45 min session, rats received 0.05 ml infusion of 0.03 mg/kg/infusion of nicotine every tïme the active lever was pressed. A eue light and tone tumed on for 0.5 sec together with the activation of a pump that delivered the nicotine solution. Daily sessions were run for at least 10 days before the initiation of drug testing. Solutions of compounds of Example 2 and Example 5 were prepared fresh daily in Formulation 2B: 25% PEG400/5% Vit E TPGS/l% SLS/69% water with 0.5% Methocel) for oral dosing. Compound of Example 2 doses were administered in a counterbalanced design for testing l hr before each nicotine session. Every rat received ail drug doses and vehicle in a randomly assigned order. The oral drug administrations were made twice per week. Compound of Example 2 at 10, 30 and 60 mg/kg significantly reduced the number of nicotine infusions when compared to vehicle treatment (26%, 28% and 31 % inhibition, respectively). Doses of l and 5 mg/kg were without effect (Figure 5).

Compound of Example 5 was tested in a study using 4 independent groups. Each group received eîther oral vehicle or 1 of the 3 doses of compound of Example 5 (5, 10 or 30 mgeq/kg). The 2 higher doses of compound of Example 5 (10 and 30 mg-eq/kg) significantly reduced the number of nicotine infusions when compared to vehicle treatment (51% and 68% inhibition, respectively). The 5 mg/kg dose was ineffective.

Chronic treatment

Upon completion of the acute compound of Example 5 treatment study, the same animais were used to test tlie effect of 7-day chronic oral administration of compound of Example 5 in the nicotine self administration model. Rats were treated oraily with compound of Example 5 (5,10 or 30 mg-eq/kg) or vehicle 1 hr before nicotine self administration session for 7 consecutive days. Compound of Example 5 at 10 and 30 mg-eq/kg significantly reduced the number of nicotine infusions when compared to vehicle treatment during the Ί days of chronic oral administration (48% and 62% inhibition, respectively). Similar to the acute treatment, the 5 mg-eq/kg dose was ineffective (Figure 7). There was no development of tolérance to the therapeutic effect during the course of the study (data not shown). Animais in nicotine self administration studies had to reach pre defined criteria (e.g. rat strain, minimum number of nicotine infusions, consistent baseline nicotine self administration throughout the study, patent iv cathéters, etc.) to be included in analysis.

Claims

1. A compound of Formula (la):

wherein:

R¹ is hydrogen, optionally substituted C,.6 alkyl, -CH2OH, -CH2OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), -C(O)R²², or-SO2R²³;

R² is hydrogen, optionally substituted C|.e alkyl, cycloalkyl, or halo;

each of R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹² and R¹³ is independently hydrogen, hydroxyl, -OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), -CH2OH, -CH2OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted alkylene, optionally substituted alkynyl, optionally substituted alkoxy, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted aryl, optionally substituted aralkyl, optionally substituted heteroaryl, optionally substituted heteroaralkyl, optionally substituted heterocyclyl, aminocarbonyl, acyl, acylamino, -O-(Ct to Cû-alkyl)O-(C] to Ce-alkyl), cyano, halo, -SO2NR²⁴R²⁵; or -NR²⁴R²⁵;

R is hydrogen or optionally substituted Cj^ alkyl;

each of R²⁰ and R²¹ is independently Na⁺, Li⁺, K⁺, hydrogen, Ci-β alkyl; or R²⁰ and R can be combined to represent a single divalent cation Zn , Ca , or Mg .

each of R²² and R²³ is independently optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted alkoxy, optionally substituted cycloalkyl, optionally substituted aryl, or -NR²⁴R²⁵; and each of R²⁴ and R²⁵ is independently chosen from hydrogen or C(_6 alkyl or when combined together with the nitrogen to which they are attached form a heterocycle; or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, ester, single stereoisomer, mixture of stereoisomers, or tautomer thereof.

2.6- dimethyl-N-(4-(2-oxopiperidin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide; or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, single stereoisomer, mixture of stereoisomers, or tautomer thereof.

25. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of the compound of any one of daims 2-24 and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

27. The use of claim 26, wherein the dopamine-producing agent is selected from the group consisting of cocaïne, opiates, amphétamines, nicotine, and alcohol.

5

28. Use of a compound according to any one of claims 2-24 or a pharmaceutîcal acceptable sait, or prodrug thereof in the manufacture of a substance for decreasing alcohol consumption in a mammal.

29. Use of a compound according to any one of claims 2-24 or a pharmaceutically

2.6- dichloro-7V-(4-(5-ftuoro-2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide; and phosphoric acid mono-(4-{4-[(2,6-dichloro-benzoylamino)-methyl]-phenyl}-2-oxo-2H -pyridin-l-ylmethyl) ester;

2.6- dichloro-7V-(2-fluoro-4-(2-oxo-1,2-dîhydropyrid i n-4-yl)benzyl)b enzami de;

2-chloro-6-fluoro-7V-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide;

2.6- difluoro-7V-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yI)benzyl)benzamide;

2.6- dichloro-JV-(4-( 1 -methyl-2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide;

2.6- dichloro-7V-(3-methyl-4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide);

2-chloro-3,6 -difl uoro-A-(4-(2-oxo-1,2-dihydrop yri d i n-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide;

2.6- dichloro-7V-[4-(6-methyl-2-oxo-1,2-di hydro -pyridi n-4-yl) -benzyl] -benzamide;

2.6- dimethyl-A'-(4-(2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide;

2-chloro-6-methyl-7V-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide;

2-chloro-3-fluoro-A-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl)benzyl)benzamide;

2.6- dichloro-7V-[4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydro-pyridin-4-yl)-benzyl]-benzamide;

2.6- dichloro-4-(2-methoxyethoxy)W-(4-(2-oxo-l,2-dihydropyridin-4-yl) benzyl)benzamide;

2. A compound of formula (I) wherein:

R¹ is hydrogen, optionally substituted Cj.6 alkyl, -CH2OH, -CH₂OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹);

R is hydrogen, optionally substituted C|.6 alkyl, cycioalkyl, or halo;

each of R³, R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹¹, R¹² and R¹³ is independently hydrogen, hydroxyl, -OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), -CH2OH, -CH2OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹), optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted alkylene, optionally substituted alkynyl, optionally substituted alkoxy, optionally substituted cycioalkyl, optionally substituted aryl, optionally substituted aralkyl, optionally substituted heteroaryl, optionally substituted heteroaralkyl, optionally substituted heterocyclyl, aminocarbonyl, acyl, acylamino, -O-(Cj to Câ-alkyl)O-(Ci to Ce-alkyl), cyano, halo, -SO2NR²⁴R²⁵; or -NR²⁴R^2S;

R⁷ is hydrogen or optionally substituted Ci.& alkyl;

20 21 4 f i 20 each of R and R is independently Na , Li , K , hydrogen, C|.g alkyl; or R and R²¹ can be combined to represent a single divalent cation Zn²⁺, Ca²⁺, or Mg²⁺. each of R²² and R²³ is independently optionaily substituted alkyl, optionaily substituted alkoxy, optionaily substituted cycloalkyl, optionaily substituted aryl, or-NR²⁴R²⁵; and each of R²⁴ and R²⁵ is independently chosen from hydrogen or Ci.6 alkyl or when combined together with the nîtrogen to which they are attached form a heterocycle; or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, ester, single stereoisomer, mixture of stereoisomers, or tautomer thereof.

3. A compound of formula (Ib) wherein:

R¹ is hydrogen, C,.6 alkyl, -CH2OR²², -CH2OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹);

«

R is hydrogen, cyano, Cm alkyl, C3-C6 cycloalkyl, or halo;

each of R³, R⁴, R^s, R⁶, R⁹, R¹⁰, R¹ ’, R¹² and R¹³ is independently hydrogen, halo, Cr Cg alky, hydroxyl, or -CH2OR²²;

π

R is hydrogen or Cm alkyl;

each of R²⁰ and R²¹ is independently Na⁺, Li⁺, K⁺, hydrogen, or Cm alkyl;

each R²² is independently hydrogen, Ci-Ce alkyl, C3-C6 cycloalkyl, phenyl or benzyl;

or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, single stereoisomer, mixture of stereoisomers, or tautomer thereof.

4. The compound of claim 2, wherein R¹ is hydrogen.

5. The compound of claim 2, wherein R¹ is Cm alkyl.

6. The compound of claim 2, wherein R¹ is methyl.

7. The compound of claim 2, wherein R¹ is -CH₂OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹); and each of R²⁰ and R²¹ is independently Na⁺, Li⁺, K⁺, or hydrogen.

8. The compound of any one of daims 2, wherein R is hydrogen, C].e alkyl, or halo.

9. The compound of any one of daims 2, wherein R is methyl, fluoro or chloro.

10 acceptable sait or prodrug thereof in the manufacture of a médicament for treating obesity in a mammal

30. A compound according to any one of claims 2-24 for use in therapy.

10. The compound of any one of daims 2, wherein each of R³, R⁴, R^s, and R⁶ is independently hydrogen, Ci-6 alkyl, or halo.

11. The compound of any one of daims 2, wherein one of R³, R⁴, R⁵, or R⁶ is methyl or fluoro.

12. The compound of any one of daims 2, wherein R⁷ is hydrogen or methyl.

13. The compound of any one of daims 2, wherein at least one of R⁹ and R¹³ is not hydrogen.

14. The compound of any one of daims 2, wherein at least one of R⁹ and R¹³ is halo or C i-6 alkyl.

15. The compound of any one of daims 2, wherein each of R⁹ and R¹³ is independently chloro or methyl.

16. The compound of any one of daims 2, wherein each of R¹⁰ and R¹² is independently hydrogen, chloro, fluoro, or methyl.

17. The compound of any one of daims 2, wherein R^l0, R¹¹ and R¹² are each hydrogen.

18. The compound of any one of daims 2, wherein R¹¹ is -O-(C| to Ce-alkyl)-O-(Ci to C₆-alkyI).

19. The compound of any one of daims 2, wherein R¹¹ îs -OCH2CH2OCH3.

20. The compound of claim 2, wherein:

R¹ is hydrogen, methyl, or -CH2OP(O)(OR²⁰)(OR²¹);

R² is hydrogen, methyl, or fluoro;

each of R³ or R⁴ is independently hydrogen or methyl;

each of R⁵ and R⁶ is independently hydrogen or fluoro;

R⁷ is hydrogen;

R⁹ is hydrogen, chloro, fluoro, or methyl;

R¹⁰ is hydrogen or fluoro;

R is hydrogen or -OCH₂CH₂OCH₃;

R is hydrogen or fluoro;

R¹³ is hydrogen, chloro, fluoro, or methyl; and each of R²⁰ and R²¹ is independently Na⁺, Li⁺, K⁺, or hydrogen.

21. The compound of claim 2, wherein the structure is:

Cl

NH or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, or tautomer thereof.

The compound of claim 2, wherein the structure is:

Cl O

O

22.

23. The compound of claîm 2, wherein the structure is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable sait, ester, or tautomer thereof.

24. A compound selected from the group consisting of:

15 31. Use of a compound according to any one of claims 2-24 for the manufacture of a médicament for the treatment of diseases related to addiction to dopamine producing agents.