PRE-084 is a sigma receptor

agonist An agonist is a chemical that activates a receptor to produce a biological response. Receptors are cellular proteins whose activation causes the cell to modify what it is currently doing. In contrast, an antagonist blocks the action of the ag ...

, selective for the σ₁ subtype. It has

nootropic Nootropics ( , or ) (colloquial: smart drugs and cognitive enhancers, similar to adaptogens) are a wide range of natural or synthetic dietary supplement, supplements or drugs and other substances that are claimed to improve cognitive function ...

and

antidepressant Antidepressants are a class of medication used to treat major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, chronic pain conditions, and to help manage addictions. Common Side effect, side-effects of antidepressants include Xerostomia, dry mouth, weig ...

actions in animal studies, as well as antitussive and reinforcing effects. PRE-084 increases the expression of

GDNF Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a protein that, in humans, is encoded by the ''GDNF'' gene. GDNF is a small protein that potently promotes the survival of many types of neurons. It signals through GFRα receptors, particul ...

Synthesis

Sodium hydride mediated alkylation between Benzyl cyanide (1) and 1,5-dibromopentane 11-24-0(2) gives 1-phenylcyclohexanecarbonitrile 201-23-2(3). Hydrolysis of the nitrile by treatment with aqueous potassium hydroxide in DEG gives 1-phenylcyclohexanecarboxylic acid 135-67-7(4). Halogenation with thionyl chloride gives 1-phenylcyclohexanecarbonyl chloride 890-42-8 This intermediate was not isolated but reacted with 2-morpholinoethanol 22-40-2(5) to give the ester and hence, completing the synthesis of PRE084 (6).

References

Sigma agonists Carboxylate esters 4-Morpholinyl compunds {{pharm-stub