Combinatorial lead optimization of a neuropeptide FF antagonist

The tripeptide Pro-Gln-Arg-NH₂, derivatized at the secondary amino group of the proline residue with 5-(dimethylamino)-1-naphthalenesulfonyl (dansyl-PQR-NH₂), antagonizes the central antiopioid action of neuropeptide FF in animals after systemic administration and, therefore, is a therapeutic lead to treat opiate withdrawal. For a combinatorial optimization to improve potency, libraries focused on the possible replacement of the proline and glutamine residues of this lead compound were obtained by a solid-phase split-and-mix method using coded amino acids (excluding cysteine) as building blocks. After screening for competitive binding against a radioiodinated neuropeptide FF analogue, 5-(dimethylamino)-1-naphthalenesulfonyl-Gly-Ser-Arg-NH₂ (dansyl-GSR-NH₂) has emerged as one of the compounds in the library with high affinity to the NPFF receptor and even with a moderate increase compared to dansyl-PQR-NH₂ in its predicted ability to penetrate the central nervous system.