New 1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrrolo[3,4-b]indole derivatives as selective CB2 receptor agonists.

The preparation and evaluation of a novel class of CB2 agonists based on a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrrolo[3,4-b]indole moiety are reported. They showed binding affinities up to 4.2 nM toward CB2 with sub-nanomolar EC(50) values.

PAR-2 activation in intestinal epithelial cells potentiates interleukin-1beta-induced chemokine secretion via MAP kinase signaling pathways.

Intestinal epithelial cells can be induced to secrete the chemokine interleukin (IL)-8 during inflammation. The PAR-2 receptor is believed to play a proinflammatory role and is expressed in gut epithelial cells. The aim was to investigate PAR-2 signaling in Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells, with respect to chemokine secretion.

Design and synthesis of dihydrofolate reductase inhibitors encompassing a bridging ester group. Evaluation in a mouse colitis model.

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation of both the small and large intestines. Methotrexate (MTX), a classical dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) inhibitor, has been used as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of patients with Crohn's disease in recent years. We sought to develop antifolates similar in structure to MTX that would be effective in reducing inflammation in a mouse disease model of colitis.