PSNCBAM-1, a novel allosteric antagonist at cannabinoid CB 1 receptors with hypophagic effects in rats

Abstract

Background and purpose: Rimonabant (Acomplia TM, SR141716A), a cannabinoid CB 1 receptor inverse agonist, has recently been approved for the treatment of obesity. There are, however, concerns regarding its side effect profile. Developing a CB 1 antagonist with a different pharmacological mechanism may lead to a safer alternative. To this end we have screened a proprietary small molecule library and have discovered a novel class of allosteric antagonist at CB 1 receptors. Herein, we have characterized an optimized prototypical molecule, PSNCBAM-1, and its hypophagic effects in vivo. Experimental approach: A CB 1 yeast reporter assay was used as a primary screen. PSNCBAM-1 was additionally characterized in [ 35S]-GTPγS, cAMP and radioligand binding assays. An acute rat feeding model was used to evaluate its effects on food intake and body weight in vivo. Key results: In CB 1 receptor yeast reporter assays, PSNCBAM-1 blocked the effects induced by agonists such as CP55,940, WIN55212-2, anandamide (AEA) or 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG). The antagonist characteristics of PSNCBAM-1 were confirmed in [ 35S]-GTPγS binding and cAMP assays and was shown to be non-competitive by Schild analyses. PSNCBAM-1 did not affect CB 2 receptors. In radioligand binding assays, PSNCBAM-1 increased the binding of [ 3H]CP55,940 despite its antagonist effects. In an acute rat feeding model, PSNCBAM-1 decreased food intake and body weight. Conclusions and implications: PSNCBAM-1 exerted its effects through selective allosteric modulation of the CB 1 receptor. The acute effects on food intake and body weight induced in rats provide a first report of in vivo activity for an allosteric CB 1 receptor antagonist. © 2007 Nature Publishing Group All rights reserved.