CRF ligands via Suzuki and Negishi couplings of 3-pyridyl boronic acids or halides with 2-benzyloxy-4-chloro-3-nitropyridine.

A series of imidazo[4,5-b]pyridines with a 7-(3-pyridyl) substituent is described as high affinity CRF receptor ligands. Individual analogues were synthesized from key intermediates obtained via palladium-catalyzed coupling of 3-pyridyl zinc or boronic acid organometallic intermediates with 2-benzyloxy-4-chloro-3-nitropyridine 12.

Imidazo[4,5-c]pyridines as corticotropin releasing factor receptor ligands.

A series of high affinity CRF receptor ligands with an imidazo[4,5-c]pyridine core is described. Individual analogues were synthesized and tested in vitro in rat brain receptors to determine binding affinity. The best compound was further tested in the dog N-in-1 pharmacokinetic model to assess oral bioavailability at 1 mg/kg po.

Imidazo[4,5-b]pyridines as corticotropin releasing factor receptor ligands.

A series of high affinity CRF receptor ligands with an imidazo[4,5-b]pyridine core is described. Individual analogues were synthesized and tested in a rat CRF receptor binding assay. The best compounds were further tested in the dog N-in-1 pharmacokinetic model to assess plasma levels at 1mg/kg (po) and in the rat situational anxiety model to assess anxiolytic efficacy at 3mg/kg (po).