Novel Pyrimidinones Targeting Adenylyl Cyclase 1 for Treating Chronic Pain

Researchers at Purdue University have synthesized compounds to treat chronic pain by inhibiting adenylyl cyclase 1 (AC1), an effector of the opioid receptor. Opioids are currently the most widely used drugs to treat chronic pain, but their use is commonly associated with addiction and dependency. A contributing factor to opioid dependence is cAMP overproduction in neurons. The Purdue researchers have identified compounds that potently and selectively inhibit AC1, the enzyme responsible for that overproduction of cAMP in neurons. The most selective compound displays 150x selectivity for AC1 over AC8, a homologous enzyme. These AC1-selective compounds provide a novel treatment option for pain. Additionally, because cAMP is linked to the opioid receptors, these compounds could be used when transitioning individuals off opioids.

Advantages:

-Novel Chronic Pain Treatment Option

-Limits Opioid Dependence and Addiction

Potential Applications:

-Non-opioid Analgesic

-Opioid Addiction Treatment

-Chronic Pain Management

TRL: 3

Intellectual Property:

Keywords: chronic pain treatment, adenylyl cyclase 1 inhibitor, AC1 inhibitor, opioid receptor effector, non-opioid analgesic, opioid addiction treatment, chronic pain management, AC1-selective compounds, cAMP overproduction, opioid dependence