COMPOSITIONS FOR THE TREATMENT OF HYPERTENSION AND/OR FIBROSIS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present application claims priority from Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2016903804 (filed 21 September 2016), the contents of which are incorporated in their entirety herein.

[0002] The present invention relates to novel compounds and their use in the prophylactic and/or therapeutic treatment of cardiovascular disease, and in particular the treatment of prehypertension, hypertension and/or fibrotic conditions.

[0003] The invention has been developed primarily for the prophylactic and/or therapeutic treatment of cardiovascular disease and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field.

[0005] Hypertension (high blood pressure) affects 26% of the adult population worldwide with an incidence of 30-33% in western countries. The world wide incidence of hypertension is expected to reach 29% by 2025 as a consequence of the

westernisation of India and China. Current studies indicate that fewer than 20% of patients with hypertension attain their recommended blood pressure (BP) target and that to achieve these targets >75% of patients require therapy with multiple antihypertensive agents. Prehypertension (slightly elevated blood pressure) affects 31 % of adults in the US and may develop into hypertension if not treated.

[0006] Hypertension and prehypertension are a major factor in the development of blood vessel damage in a variety of organs, resulting in the replacement of normal functional tissue by scar tissue or fibrosis. Some of the current antihypertensive agents are able to slow the progression of the replacement of functional tissue by fibrosis, but none have been shown to reverse existing fibrosis and restore normal tissue

architecture. There is thus a need for agents which have the efficacy to reduce BP significantly and thus enable a larger proportion of patients to attain BP target with single agent therapy and/or to reverse existing fibrosis and/or restore normal tissue

architecture.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Surprisingly, the present inventors have found that certain compounds have blood pressure lowering and/or anti-fibrotic effects. These effects may be seen in intravenous and/or oral dosing studies.

[0009] According to one aspect, the present invention provides a compound of the formulae:

wherein:

X is selected from the group consisting of:

Ri to R ₉ are independently C, N, O or S;

R ₀ is independently selected from Ci _-6 alkyl, halo, C ₀ . ₆ alkyl carboxylic acid, amino, hydroxy and d _-6 alkoxy;

Y is A, CH ₂ -A or CH=A;

A is selected from optionally substituted saturated, partly saturated or unsaturated 5- or 6-membered heterocyclyl; optionally substituted Ci. ₆ alkoxyl amine; optionally substituted Ci. ₆ alkyl amine; optionally substituted C ₀ - ₆ alkyl carboxylic acid; optionally substituted Ci. ₆ alkyl hydroxyl; optionally substituted saturated or unsaturated Co-ealkyl bicyclic heterocyclyl; and optionally substituted saturated or unsaturated d. ₆ alkoxyl bicyclic heterocyclyl;

Z is selected from the group consisting of:

and ; Rii is independently selected from halo, alkyl, hydroxy, amino and substituted amino; Ri2, Ri4 and R ₁₅ are independently C, CH, CH ₂ , O, N, NH or S; Ri ₃ is C, CH, CH ₂ , N, NH, C-CF ₃ , CH-CF ₃ or C=0;

m is 0, 1 , 2, 3, 4 or 5; and

n is 0, 1 , 2, 3 or 4,

or a stereoisomer or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

[0010] In one embodiment, R ₀ is independently selected from -CH ₃ , -C(0)OH, -F, -NH ₂ , -OH and -OCH ₃ .

[001 1] In one embodiment, R ₅ to R ₉ are independently C or N.

[0012] In one embodiment, the C ₀ - ₆ alkyl carboxylic acid is carboxylic acid.

[0013] In one embodiment, the saturated, partly saturated or unsaturated 5- or 6- membered heterocyclyl contains one or more of N, S or O, optionally substituted with one or more oxo, Ci_ ₆ alkyl, amino, hydroxyl or halo substituents.

[0014] In one embodiment, the saturated, partly saturated or unsaturated 5- or 6- membered heterocyclyl is selected from pyrrolyl, pyrazolyl, imidazolyl, triazolyl, imidazolidinyl, pyrrolidinyl, pyrrolidinylidene, dihydropyrrolyl, isoxazolyl dihydrooxazolyl, isoxazolidinyl, oxazolidinyl and oxazolyl, optionally substituted with one or more oxo, Ci. ₆ alkyl, amino, hydroxyl or halo substituents.

[0015] In one embodiment, the Ci. ₆ alkoxyl amine is aminooxymethyl.

[0016] In one embodiment, the Ci _-6 alkyl amine is optionally substituted with one or more of Ci _-6 alkyl, d_ ₆ halo alkyl, hydroxyl or halo, preferably mono-, di- or tri-substituted halo alkyl, most preferably tri-fluoro methane.

[0017] In one embodiment, the d. ₆ alkyl hydroxyl is methyl hydroxyl or propan-2-ol.

[0018] In one embodiment, the C ₀ - ₆ alkyl bicyclic heterocyclyl is selected from indolyl, isoindolyl, insolinyl and isoindolinyl, optionally substituted with one or more oxo, preferably dioxo.

[0019] In one embodiment, the Ci. ₆ alkoxyl bicyclic heterocyclyl is selected indolyl, isoindolyl, insolinyl and isoindolinyl, optionally substituted with one or more oxo, and wherein the Ci. ₆ alkoxyl is methoxy or ethoxy.

[0020] In one embodiment, A is selected from:

[0021] In one embodiment, is halo selected from the group consisting of F, CI, Br and I.

[0022] In one embodiment, Rn is substituted amino of the formula -NHRi ₆ and wherein:

R ₁₆ is selected from -CN, -S0 ₂ (Ri ₇ ) _a Ri8 and -CO(Ri ₇ ) _a Ri ₈ ,

a is 0 or 1 ,

Ri ₇ is selected from -NH- and -0-, and

R ₁₈ is selected from -H, -CH ₃ , -CH ₂ CH ₃ , -CH ₂ OH and -CH ₂ CH ₂ OH.

[0023] In one embodiment, Rn is substituted amino selected from the group consisting of -NHS0 ₂ CH ₃ , -NHCOH, -NHCONHCH3, -NHCONHCH ₂ CH ₃ , -NHS0 ₂ NHCH ₃ , -NHS0 ₂ NHCH ₂ CH ₃ , -NHCOCH ₃ , -NHCOOCH _3, -NHCOOCH ₂ CH ₂ OH, -NHCONH ₂ and -NHCN. [0024] In one embodiment, Rn is alkyl selected from the group consisting of methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl and pentyl.

[0025] In one embodiment, the compound is selected from the group consisting of:

[0027] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of the present invention and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.

[0028] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for the therapeutic treatment of hypertension or prehypertension in a subject comprising administering to the subject a compound according to the present invention. [0029] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for the therapeutic treatment of fibrosis in a subject comprising administering to the subject a compound according to the present invention.

[0030] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for the prophylactic treatment of fibrosis in a subject comprising administering to the subject a compound according to the present invention.

[0031] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for the therapeutic treatment of hypertension and fibrosis in a subject comprising administering to the subject a compound according to the present invention.

[0032] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for the therapeutic treatment of prehypertension and fibrosis in a subject comprising

administering to the subject a compound according to the present invention.

[0033] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a compound of the present invention for use in the therapeutic treatment of hypertension or

prehypertension.

[0034] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a compound of the present invention for use in the therapeutic treatment of fibrosis.

[0035] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a compound of the present invention for use in the prophylactic treatment of fibrosis.

[0036] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a compound of the present invention for use in the therapeutic treatment of hypertension and fibrosis.

[0037] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a compound of the present invention for use in the therapeutic treatment of prehypertension and fibrosis.

[0038] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to use of a compound of the present invention for the manufacture of a medicament for the therapeutic treatment of hypertension or prehypertension.

[0039] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to use of a compound of the present invention for the manufacture of a medicament for the therapeutic treatment of fibrosis.

[0040] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to use of a compound of the present invention for the manufacture of a medicament for the prophylactic treatment of fibrosis. [0041] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to use of a compound of the present invention for the manufacture of a medicament for the therapeutic treatment of hypertension and fibrosis.

[0042] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to use of a compound of the present invention for the manufacture of a medicament for the therapeutic treatment of prehypertension and fibrosis.

[0043] In one embodiment, the fibrosis is myocardial fibrosis.

[0044] In one embodiment, the fibrosis is kidney fibrosis.

[0045] In one embodiment, the fibrosis is liver fibrosis.

[0046] In one embodiment, the fibrosis is lung fibrosis.

[0047] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to".

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0048] Figure 1 : Synthesis of 2-[4-Benzyl-1-(3-hydroxybenzyl)-1 H-imidazol-5- yl]acetamide (VB0002).

[0049] Figure 2: Synthesis of 3-(tert-Butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzylisothiocyanate (compound B).

[0050] Figure 3: Synthesis of 3-[5-(2-hydroxypropyl)-4-phenyl-imidazol-1-ylmethyl]- phenol (VB0003).

[0051] Figure 4: Synthesis of a-Tosylbenzylisocyanide (compound C).

[0052] Figure 5 Synthesis of 3-(Benzyloxy)benzylamine (compound D).

[0053] Figure 6: Synthesis of 3,3-Ethylenedioxy-1-butanal (compound E).

[0054] Figure 7: Synthesis of (S)-3-[1-(3-Hydroxy)phenyl-4-phenylpiperazin-2- yl]propanamide (VB0005).

[0055] Figure 8: Systolic blood pressure in SHR on a 2.2% salt diet with VB0002 (in 20% DMSO) at a dose of 20 pmol/kg/min or vehicle control (20% DMSO) administered intravenously via osmotic minipump for 4 weeks. * p<0.005 vs 18 week control.

[0056] Figure 9: Systolic blood pressure in SHR on a 2.2% salt diet with VB0003 (in 5% ethanol) at a dose of 20 pmol/kg/min, VB0005 (in 5% ethanol) at a dose of 20 pmol/kg/min or vehicle control (5% ethanol) administered in the drinking solution for 4 weeks. * p<0.0005 vs 18 week control.

[0057] Figure 10: Myocardial fibrosis in SHR on a 2.2% salt diet with VB0002 (in 20% DMSO) at a dose of 20 pmol/kg/min or vehicle control (20% DMSO) administered intravenously via an osmotic minipump for 4 weeks. * p<0.005 vs 18 week control, ** p<0.0005 vs 18 week control.

[0058] Figure 11 : Myocardial fibrosis in SHR on a 2.2% salt diet with VB0003 (in 5% ethanol) at dosages of 10, 100 and 500 pmol/kg/min or vehicle control (5% ethanol) administered in the drinking solution for 4 weeks. * p<0.005 vs 18 week control, ** p<0.0005 vs 18 week control, # p<0.01 vs 14 week control.

[0059] Figure 12: Myocardial fibrosis in SHR on a 2.2% salt diet with VB0005 (in 5% ethanol) at a dosage of 100 pmol/kg/min or vehicle control (5% ethanol) administered in the drinking solution for 4 weeks. * p<0.001 vs 18 week control, ** p<0.0005 vs 18 week control, # p<0.01 vs 14 week control.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0060] The present invention relates to certain compounds that show blood pressure lowering and anti-fibrotic effects in oral dosing studies in an experimental animal model. With respect to anti-fibrotic activity, the compounds of the present invention are effective in preventing fibrosis, slowing down progression of established fibrosis and/or reducing the degree (reversal) of established fibrosis. These are important findings with respect to the range and severity of conditions which can be treated with the compounds of the present invention.

[0061] The compounds of the present invention are represented by the formulae:

wherein:

X is selected from the group consisting of: to R ₉ are independently C, N, O or S;

Rio is independently selected from Ci _-6 alkyl, halo, C ₀ - ₆ alkyl carboxylic acid, amino, hydroxy and Ci. ₆ alkoxy;

Y is A, CH ₂ -A or CH=A;

A is selected from optionally substituted saturated, partly saturated or unsaturated 5- or 6-membered heterocyclyl; optionally substituted Ci. ₆ alkoxyl amine; optionally substituted Ci. ₆ alkyl amine; optionally substituted C ₀ - ₆ alkyl carboxylic acid; optionally substituted Ci. ₆ alkyl hydroxyl; optionally substituted saturated or unsaturated C ₀ - ₆ alkyl bicyclic heterocyclyl; and optionally substituted saturated or unsaturated Ci. ₆ alkoxyl bicyclic heterocyclyl;

Z is selected from the group consisting of:

and ; Rii is independently selected from halo, alkyl, hydroxy, amino and substituted amino; Ri2, Ri4 and Ri ₅ are independently C, CH, CH ₂ , O, N, NH or S;

R ₁₃ is C, CH, CH ₂ , N, NH, C-CF ₃ , CH-CF ₃ or C=0;

m is 0, 1 , 2, 3, 4 or 5; and

n is 0, 1 , 2, 3 or 4,

or a stereoisomer or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

[0062] The following compounds are specific, but non-limiting, examples of the compounds of the present invention:

[0063] As used herein, the term "halo" designates -F, -CI, -Br or -I; the term "hydroxy" means -OH; the term "amino" means -NH ₂ ; and the term "substituted amino" includes - NHW, wherein W is selected from -CN, -S0 ₂ (X) _a Y and -CO(X) _a Y, a is 0 or 1 , X is selected from -NH- and -0-, and Y is selected from -H, -CH ₃ , -CH ₂ CH ₃ , -CH ₂ OH and - CH ₂ CH ₂ OH.

[0064] As used herein, the abbreviations Me, Et, Ph, Ms represent methyl, ethyl, phenyl, and methanesulfonyl, respectively. A more comprehensive list of the

abbreviations utilized by organic chemists of ordinary skill in the art appears in the first issue of each volume of the Journal of Organic Chemistry; this list is typically presented in a table entitled Standard List of Abbreviations. The abbreviations contained in said list, and all abbreviations utilized by organic chemists of ordinary skill in the art are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0065] Compounds of the present invention may exist in particular geometric or stereoisomeric forms. The present invention contemplates all such compounds, including cis- and trans-isomers, (R)- and (S)-enantiomers, diastereomers, (d)-isomers, (l)-isomers, the racemic mixtures thereof, and other mixtures thereof, as falling within the scope of the invention. All such isomers, as well as mixtures thereof, are intended to be included in this invention.

[0066] If, for instance, a particular enantiomer of a compound of the present invention is desired, it may be prepared by asymmetric synthesis, or by derivatization with a chiral auxiliary, where the resulting diastereomeric mixture is separated and the auxiliary group cleaved to provide the pure desired enantiomers. Alternatively, diastereomeric salts may be formed with an appropriate optically active acid or base, followed by resolution of the diastereomers thus formed by fractional crystallization or chromatographic means well known in the art, and subsequent recovery of the pure enantiomers.

[0067] In general, the compounds of the present invention may be prepared by the methods illustrated in the general reaction schemes as, for example, described below, or by modifications thereof, using readily available starting materials, reagents and conventional synthesis procedures. In these reactions, it is also possible to make use of variants which are in themselves known, but are not mentioned here.

[0068] The present invention also contemplates pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the compounds. The term "pharmaceutically acceptable salt" includes both acid and base addition salts and refers to salts which retain the biological effectiveness and properties of the free bases or acids, and which are not biologically or otherwise undesirable. The pharmaceutically acceptable salts are formed with inorganic or organic acids or bases, and can be prepared in situ during the final isolation and purification of the compounds, or by separately reacting a purified compound in its free base or acid form with a suitable organic or inorganic acid or base, and isolating the salt thus formed.

[0069] The term "fibrosis" as used in the context of the present invention includes, but is not limited to, myocardial fibrosis, kidney fibrosis, liver fibrosis and/or lung fibrosis.

[0070] In addition to treatment of established fibrosis, the compounds of the present invention may be used prophylactically in subjects at risk of developing fibrosis. As an example of subjects in the risk category for developing fibrosis are those having hypertension, diabetes, myocarditis, ischaemic heart disease, Conn's Syndrome, pheochromocytoma, genetic predisposition high salt diet and/or receiving drugs used in cancer chemotherapy (such as daunorubicin). The term "prophylactic" as used in the context of the present invention is intended inter alia to encompass treatments used to prevent or slow down the development of fibrosis in the at risk group. Subjects who may be given prophylactic treatment may already have signs of early heart failure on echocardiography.

[0071] The term "hypertension" as used in the context of the present invention indicates an adult blood pressure of above about 139 mmHg systolic and/or above about 89 mmHg diastolic.

[0072] The term "prehypertension" as used in the context of the present invention indicates an adult blood pressure in the range about 120-139 mmHg systolic and/or about 80-89 mmHg diastolic.

[0073] The present invention also contemplates pharmaceutical compositions which include the compounds of the present invention, in conjunction with acceptable pharmaceutical excipients. The term "pharmaceutically acceptable excipient" as used in the context of the present invention means any pharmaceutically acceptable inactive component of the composition. As is well known in the art, excipients include diluents, buffers, binders, lubricants, disintegrants, colorants, antioxidants/preservatives, pH- adjusters, etc. The excipients are selected based on the desired physical aspects of the final form: e.g. obtaining a tablet with desired hardness and friability being rapidly dispersible and easily swallowed etc. The desired release rate of the active substance from the composition after its ingestion also plays a role in the choice of excipients. Pharmaceutical compositions may include any type of dosage form such as tablets, capsules, powders, liquid formulations, delayed or sustained release, patches, snuffs, nasal sprays and the like. The physical form and content of the pharmaceutical compositions contemplated are conventional preparations that can be formulated by those skilled in the pharmaceutical formulation field and are based on well established principles and compositions described in, for example, Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy, 19th Edition, 1995; British Pharmacopoeia 2000 and similar formulation texts and manuals.

[0074] For example, where the compounds or compositions are to be administered orally, they may be formulated as tablets, capsules, granules, powders or syrups; or for parenteral administration, they may be formulated as injections (intravenous, intramuscular or subcutaneous), drop infusion preparations or suppositories. For application by the ophthalmic mucous membrane route, they may be formulated as eyedrops or eye ointments. These formulations can be prepared by conventional means, and, if desired, the active ingredient may be mixed with any conventional additive, such as an excipient, a binder, a disintegrating agent, a lubricant, a corrigent, a solubilizing agent, a suspension aid, an emulsifying agent or a coating agent.

[0075] When the compound(s) of the present invention are administered as pharmaceuticals, to humans and animals, they can be given per se or as a

pharmaceutical composition containing, for example, 0.1 to 99.5% (more preferably, 0.5 to 90%) of active ingredient in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

[0076] The dosage of a compound and frequency of administration that should be used can also be easily determined by the practicing physician in order to produce the desired response.

[0077] Although the dosage will vary depending on the symptoms, age and body weight of the patient, the nature and severity of the disorder to be treated or prevented, the route of administration and the form of the drug, in general, a daily dosage of from 0.0001 mg to 200 mg of the compound of the present invention may be a suitable effective amount for an adult human patient, and this may be administered in a single dose or in divided doses.

[0078] A "patient" or "subject" to be treated by the subject method can mean either a human or non-human subject.

[0079] An "effective amount" of a subject compound, with respect to a method of treatment, refers to an amount of the therapeutic in a preparation which, when applied as part of a desired dosage regimen provides a benefit according to clinically acceptable standards for the treatment or prophylaxis of a particular disorder.

[0080] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to specific but non-limiting examples describing specific compositions and methods of use. It is to be understood, however, that the detailed description of specific procedures, compositions and methods is included solely for the purpose of exemplifying the present invention. It should not be understood in any way as a restriction on the broad description of the inventive concept as set out above.

EXAMPLES

Example 1 - Synthesis of compounds

[0081] The synthetic route used to prepare 2-[4- Benzyl- 1-(3-hydroxybenzyl)-1 H- imidazol-5-yl]acetamide (VB0002) is shown in Figure 1. A condensation reaction between Boc-phenylalanine and methyl malonate potassium salt promoted by 1 , 1 '- carbonyldiimidazole (CDI) gave the intermediate 4. Removal of the Boc group then provided compound 5 as a hydrochloride salt. The salt 5 was reacted with

isothiocyanate B, and the cyclic thiourea 6 was obtained in low yield. Conversion of cyclic thiourea 6 to imidazole 7 was achieved under oxidative conditions. Treatment of imidazole 7 with aqueous ammonia afforded VB0002.

[0082] Compound B was not commercially available, and was prepared as shown in Figure 2. 3-Cyanophenol was initially protected as a ferf-butyldimethylsilyl ether, and the cyano group subsequently reduced to the corresponding amine, which was reacted with thiophosgene to form compound B.

[0083] The synthetic route used to prepare 3-[5-(2-hydroxypropyl)-4-phenyl-imidazol- 1-ylmethyl]-phenol (VB0003) is shown in Figure 3. Firstly, imidazole 8 was conveniently assembled by a three-component coupling reaction of a-tosylbenzylisocyanide C, benzylamine D and the protected aldehyde E. Both protecting groups were

subsequently removed using a thioanisole-trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) system to give compound 9, which was reduced to afford VB0003.

[0084] Compound C was prepared as shown in Figure 4. 4-Toluenesulfinic acid, prepared from the corresponding sodium salt, was involved in a three-component reaction with benzaldehyde and formamide to form an intermediate which upon dehydration gave compound C.

[0085] Compound D was not commercially available and was prepared as shown in Figure 5. This was accomplished by converting 3-(benzyloxy) benzyl alcohol into the corresponding azide using diphenylphosphoryl azide, and subsequent reduction to give benzylamine D. [0086] Compound E was not commercially available and was prepared as shown in Figure 6. Ethyl acetoacetate was initially protected as an acetal; the ester group was then reduced to a primary alcohol, which was subsequently subjected to a Swern oxidation to form protected aldehyde E.

[0087] The synthetic route used to prepare (S)-3-[1-(3-Hydroxy)phenyl-4- phenylpiperazin-2-yl]propanamide (VB0005) is shown in Figure 7. In a standard amide bond forming process Fmoc-L-glutamic acid 5-ferf-butyl ester was reacted with aniline to form the corresponding amide, which was deprotected with tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (TAEA) to give compound 14. The free amine 14 underwent a copper-mediated cross- coupling reaction with 3-(benzyloxy)phenylboronic acid to afford the A/-arylated product 15. This compound was subsequently reacted with bromoacetyl bromide to form compound 16, which was transformed into keto-piperazine 17; a selective reduction of this compound yielded piperazine 18. A subsequent double deprotection step employing a thioanisole-TFA system gave compound 19, which was subjected to an aminolysis reaction using aqueous ammonia and 1 ,1 '-carbonyldiimidazole (CDI) to afford VB0005.

[0088] Methyl 4-(ieri-butoxycarbonylamino)-3-oxo-5-phenylpentanoate (4). A suspension of magnesium chloride (6.96 g, 73.0 mmol) and methyl malonate potassium salt (17.66 g, 113.2 mmol) was stirred in THF (280 ml_) at 50 °C, under a nitrogen atmosphere for 6 h. To a solution of A/-(ferf-butoxycarbonyl)-L-phenylalanine (20.0 g, 75.4mmol) in THF (200 ml_) in a separate flask, under nitrogen and at 0 °C was added portionwise 1 , 1 '-carbonyldiimidazole (18.34 g, 1 13.1 mmol) and the reaction stirred at ambient temperature for 2 h, then added to the cooled malonate suspension. The reaction mixture was then stirred at room temperature for 17 h. Most of the THF was removed in vacuo. To the residue was added saturated potassium hydrogen sulphate (300 ml_) and ethyl acetate (300 ml_). The layers were separated then the aqueous layer was extracted twice more with ethyl acetate. The combined organic layers were washed with saturated sodium bicarbonate (2x300 ml_) and brine (300 ml_), dried and

concentrated in vacuo to give methyl 4-(ferf-butoxycarbonylamino)-3-oxo-5- phenylpentanoate (22.22 g, 92%) as a pale viscous oil which solidified. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 7.33-7.08 (m, 5H), 5.20-4.80 (m, 1 H), 4.62-4.48 (m, 1 H), 3.69 (s, 3H), 3.52 (d, J^16.0 Hz, 1 H), 3.45 (d, J^16.0 Hz, 1 H), 3.25-2.88 (m, 2H), 1.39 (s, 9H). ³ C NMR (100 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 201.8, 167.3, 155.2, 136.1 , 129.2, 128.6, 126.9, 80.1 , 60.4, 52.3, 46.5, 36.7, 28.2. EIMS: m/z 321 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C ₁₇ H ₂₃ N0 ₅ 321.1576, found 321.1555. [0089] Methyl 4-amino-3-oxo-5-phenylpentanoate hydrochloride (5). Methyl 4- (fert-butoxycarbonylamino)-3-oxo-5-phenylpentanoate (22.20 g, 69.2 mmol) was stirred for 2 days with ethyl acetate saturated with hydrogen chloride. The resultant solid was collected by filtration, washed with diethyl ether and dried in the air to give methyl 4- amino-3-oxo-5-phenylpentanoate hydrochloride (16.25 g, 92%) as an unstable cream solid. H NMR (400 MHz, DMSO-d ₆ ) δ 8.58 (br s, 3H), 7.37-7.20 (m, 5H), 4.49 (t, J=6.6 Hz, 1 H), 3.83 (d, =MA Hz, 1 H), 3.74 (d, =M A Hz, 1 H), 3.62 (s, 3H), 3.22 (dd, J^14.4, 6.4 Hz, 1 H), 3.11 (dd, J^14.4, 7.0 Hz, 1 H).

[0090] Methyl 2-{5-benzyl-3-[3-(ieri-butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzyl]-2-thiox o-2,3- dihydro-1 H-imidazol-4-yl}acetate (6). A mixture of methyl 4-amino-3-oxo-5- phenylpentanoate hydrochloride (7.15 g, 27.9 mmol), 3-(tert- butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzylisothiocyanate (9.34 g, 33.5 mmol), triethylamine (5.8 mL, 41.9 mmol) and pyridinium 4-toluenesulfonate (0.70 g, 2.8 mmol) in toluene (100 mL) was heated at a gentle reflux under nitrogen for 5 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to room temperature, then partitioned between water (150 mL) and ethyl acetate (150 mL). The layers were separated and the aqueous was extracted twice more with ethyl acetate. The combined organic layers were washed with water (2x150 mL), dried and

concentrated in vacuo to give a tan oil. The crude material was dissolved in diethyl ether, seeded and left to crystallise for 20 h. Methyl 2-{5-benzyl-3-[3-(ferf- butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzyl)]-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydro-1 H-imidazol-4-yl}acetate (2.14 g, 13%) was collected by filtration as a cream needles; mp 154.0-156.0 ^° C. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 9.68 (br s, 1 H), 7.34-7.22 (m, 2H), 7.19-7.14 (m, 3H), 6.83-6.71 (m, 3H), 5.32 (s, 2H), 3.79 (s, 2H), 3.61 (s, 3H), 3.33 (s, 2H), 0.96 (s, 9H), 0.18 (s, 6H). ³ C NMR (125 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 169.1 , 161.5, 156.1 , 137.4, 136.3, 129.9, 128.9, 128.6, 127.2, 125.8, 119.8, 119.5, 119.4, 118.6, 52.4, 47.9, 30.1 , 29.6, 25.7, 18.2, -4.4. EIMS: m/z 482 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C2 ₆ H ₃ 4N2O ₃ SS1 482.2054, found 482.2039.

[0091] Methyl 2-{4-benzyl-1 -[3-(ieri-butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzyl]-1 H-imidazol-5- yl}acetate (7). To a suspension of methyl 2-{5-benzyl-3-[3-(ferf- butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzyl]-2-thioxo-2,3-dihydro-1 /--imidazol-4-yl}acetate (1.00 g, 2.1 mmol ) in acetic acid (3.4 mL) under nitrogen, was slowly added 30% hydrogen peroxide (941 μί). After 10 min the reaction solution was cooled in an ice-bath and then quenched with 10% sodium carbonate (20 mL). The pH was adjusted to 9-10 with 1 M sodium hydroxide, then extracted with ethyl acetate (3x20 mL), dried and concentrated in vacuo to give methyl 2-{4-benzyl-1-[3-(ferf-butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzyl]-1 /--imidazol-5- yl}acetate (0.86 g, 91 %) as a tan oil. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 7.50 (s, 1 H), 7.27- 7.10 (m, 6H), 6.80-6.74 (m, 1 H), 6.69-6.60 (m, 1 H), 6.50-6.47 (m, 1 H), 5.06 (s, 2H), 3.93 (s, 2H), 3.55 (s, 3H), 3.38 (s, 2H), 0.95 (s, 9H), 0.14 (s, 6H). ³ C NMR (50 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 170.0, 156.3, 139.9, 139.6, 137.3, 136.2, 130.1 , 128.6, 128.4, 126.0, 120.4, 1 19.8,

118.4, 117.4, 52.2, 48.9, 33.5, 29.1 , 25.6, 18.0, -4.5. EIMS: m/z 450 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C26H34N2O3S1 450.2333, found 450.2323.

[0092] 2-[4-Benzyl-1-(3-hydroxybenzyl)-1 H-imidazol-5-yl]acetamide (VB0002). To a solution of methyl 2-{4-benzyl-1-[3-(ferf-butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzyl]-1 /--imidazol-5- yl}acetate (0.86 g, 1.9 mmol) in methanol (2 mL) was added 25% aqueous ammonia solution. The flask was stoppered and the reaction mixture stirred at room temperature for 3 days. More methanol and diethyl ether were added and the reaction mixture stirred for 2 h. The fine precipitate was collected by filtration, washing well with diethyl ether, then air dried to give 2-[4-benzyl-1-(3-hydroxybenzyl)-1 H-imidazol-5-yl]acetamide (0.193 g, 32%) as a colourless solid; mp 249 °C (dec). H NMR (400 MHz, DMSO-d ₆ ) δ 9.44 (s, 1 H), 7.52 (s, 1 H), 7.37 (br s, 1 H), 7.24-7.07 (m, 5H), 6.95 (br s, 1 H), 6.66 (m, 1 H), 6.53-6.49 (m, 1 H), 6.45-6.43 (m, 1 H), 5.10 (s, 2H), 3.76 (s, 2H), 3.30 (s, 2H). ³ C NMR (50 MHz, DMSO-d ₆ ) δ 170.8, 157.7, 141.1 , 138.9, 137.9, 136.9, 129.7, 128.5, 127.9,

125.5, 112.0, 117.3, 114.5, 113.5, 47.7, 32.8, 29.6. EIMS: m/z 321 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C ₁₉ H ₁₉ N ₃ 02 321.1477, found 321.1470.

[0093] 3-(terf-Butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzonitrile. To a stirred solution of 3- cyanophenol (10.34 g, 86.8 mmol) and imidazole (14.77 g, 217 mmol) in DMF (100 mL) under nitrogen, and at 0 °C was added portionwise ferf-butyldimethylsilylchloride (13.74 g, 91 mmol) over 5 min. The reaction was allowed to warm to ambient temperature and was stirred for another 2 h. The reaction mixture was transferred to a separatory funnel and was partitioned between diethyl ether (150 mL) and water (150 mL). The layers were separated and the aqueous was extracted twice more with diethyl ether. The combined organic extracts were washed with water (2x100mL), dried and concentrated to give 3-(ferf-butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzonitrile (20.38 g, quantitative) as a pale yellow oil. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 7.35-7.29 (m, 1 H), 7.27-7.22 (m, 1 H), 7.1 1-7.04 (m, 2H), 0.98 (s, 9H), 0.21 (s, 6H). ³ C NMR (100 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 156.0, 130.4, 125.0, 124.9, 123.3, 118.5, 113.2, 25.5, 18.1 , -4.6. EIMS: m/z 233 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C ₁₃ H ₁₉ NOSi 233.1236, found 233.1227.

[0094] 3-(ferf-Butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzylamine. A mixture of lithium aluminium hydride (4.97 g, 131 mmol) and diethyl ether (400 mL) was heated at reflux for 1 h, then cooled to ambient temperature. A solution of 3-(fert-butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzonitrile (15.25 g, 65.5 mmol) in diethyl ether (50 mL) was added dropwise so that a gentle reflux was maintained. The reaction was then heated at reflux for 3 h and then cooled in an ice bath. Water (5 mL) was cautiously added dropwise, followed by 15% sodium hydroxide solution (5 mL) and then water (15 mL). The solids were filtered off and washed thoroughly with diethyl ether. The filtrate was washed with water, dried and concentrated in vacuo to give a pale yellow oil (14.68 g, 95%). The crude material was preadsorbed onto Celite, then chromatographed by DCVC eluting with a gradient of ethyl acetate in PE (5%-100% ethyl acetate) to give 3-(fert-butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzylamine (11.85 g, 77%) as a pale yellow oil. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 7.13 (t, J^7.7 Hz, 1 H), 6.84 (d, J=7.7 Hz, 1 H), 6.79-6-75 (m, 1 H), 6.68 (dd, J^8.0, 2.4 Hz, 1 H), 3.75 (s, 2H), 0.97 (s, 9H), 0.18 (s, 6H). ³ C NMR (100 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 155.5, 144.7, 129.1 , 119.7, 118.5, 118.0, 46.0, 25.4, 17.9, -4.7. EIMS: m/z 237 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C ₁₃ H ₂₃ NOSi 237.1543, found 237.1545.

[0095] 3-(terf-Butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzylisothiocyanate (B). A mixture of 3-(tert- butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzylamine (13.0 g, 54.8 mmol), calcium carbonate (5.65 g, 56.4 mmol), thiophosgene (8.5 mL, 11 1 mmol), water (41 mL) and chloroform (356 mL) was stirred vigorously at room temperature for 20 h in a stoppered flask. The reaction mixture was washed with water (2 x 250 mL), dried and concentrated in vacuo to give 3- (fert-butyldimethylsilyloxy)benzylisothiocyanate (14.29 g, 93%) as a pale tan oil. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 7.27-7.21 (m, 1 H), 6.92-6.88 (m, 1 H), 6.83-6.79 (m, 2H), 4.65 (s, 2H), 1.00 (s, 9H), 0.22 (s, 6H). ³ C NMR (100 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 156.1 , 135.7, 132.4, 129.9, 120.0, 119.6, 118.5, 48.4, 25.6, 18.2, -4.4. EIMS: m/z 279 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C ₁₄ H ₂ i NOSi 279.1108, found 279.1105.

[0096] 1 -(3-Benzyloxybenzyl)-5-(2-methyl-1 ,3-dioxolan-2-yl-methyl)-4-phenyl-1 H- imidazole (8). To a solution of 3,3-ethylenedioxy-1-butanal (1.37g, 10.5 mmol) in dry methanol (60 mL) was added 3-benzyloxybenzyl amine (2.10 g, 10.5 mmol) and the clear solution was allowed to stir at 25 °C for 90 min. a-Tosylbenzylisocyanide (2.86 g, 10.5 mmol) was added, followed by triethylamine (2.93 mL, 21.1 mmol), and the reaction mixture was stirred and heated at 65 °C for 4 h. The solvent was then removed and the residue dissolved in ethyl acetate (50 mL), washed with water (50 mL), dried and the solvent removed in vacuo. The residue was purified by column chromatography

(gradient elution using 20-80% ethyl acetate/PE) to afford 1-(3-benzyloxybenzyl)-5-(2- methyl-[1 ,3]-dioxalan-2-yl-methyl)-4-phenyl-1 H-imidazole (2.05 g, 44%) as a sticky pale orange oil. H NMR (200 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 7.89 (m, 2H) 7.58 (s, 1 H), 7.21-7.7.44 (m, 9H), 6.90 (m, 1 H), 6.65 (m, 2H), 5.31 (s, 2H), 5.01 (s, 2H), 3.83 (m, 2H), 3.59 (m, 2H), 3.02 (s, 21-0, 1.33 (s, 3H). ³ C NMR (50 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 159.2, 138.5, 137.6, 136.6, 135.3, 130.0, 128.6, 128.3, 128.0, 127.4, 127.2, 126.5, 119.0, 114.0, 1 13.1 , 109.9, 69.9, 65.0, 48.8, 33.9, 29.7, 25.5. ESIMS: m/z 441 [M+H] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for CzsHzsNzC 440.2094, found 440.2075.

[0097] 1 -[3-(3-hydroxybenzyl)-5-phenyl-3H-imidazol-4-yl]-propan-2-on e (9). To a stirred solution of 1-(3-benzyloxybenzyl)-5-(2-methyl-[1 ,3]-dioxolan-2-yl-methyl)-4- phenyl-1 /-/-imidazole (1.12 g, 2.54 mmol) in TFA (5 mL) was added thioanisole (598 μΙ_, 5.09 mmol) and the reaction allowed to stir at 25 °C for 15 h. The reaction mixture was then cooled to 0 °C, and water (30 mL) was slowly added followed by ethyl acetate (50 mL). The mixture was transferred to a separatory funnel and the aqueous layer removed. The organic phase was washed with water (2x50 mL), dried and the solvent removed in vacuo. The residue was then passed through a small plug of silica gel (90% ethyl acetate/PE), the solvent removed under reduced pressure, and recrystallised from chloroform/PE to give 1-[3-(3-hydroxybenzyl)-5-phenyl-3H-imidazol-4-yl]-propan-2-o ne (419 mg, 54%) as a white solid; mp 173.7-175.5 °C. H NMR (200 MHz, CD ₃ CN) δ 8.52 (s, 1 H), 7.48 (s, 5H), 7.25 (t, 1 H, J^7.8 Hz), 6.79 (m, 3H), 5.16 (s, 2H), 3.94 (s, 2H), 2.14 (s, 3H). ³ C NMR (50 MHz, CD ₃ OD) δ 204.6, 159.6, 136.7, 136.0, 134.5, 131.7, 131.1 , 130.5, 129.2, 128.3, 126.0, 120.0, 117.1 , 116.0, 52.1 , 38.7, 29.5. ESIMS: m/z 307

[M+H] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C ₁₉ H ₁₈ N ₂ 02 306.1363 , found 306.1365.

[0098] 3-[5-(2-hydroxypropyl)-4-phenyl-imidazol-1 -ylmethyl]-phenol (VB0003).

To an ice-cold solution of 1-[3-(3-Hydroxybenzyl)-5-phenyl-3H-imidazol-4-yl]propan-2- one (419 mg, 1.37 mmol) in dry methanol (50 mL) was added sodium borohydride (155 mg, 4.10 mmol) and the mixture allowed to stir at 25 °C for 15 h. Acetone (20 mL) was then added and the reaction mixture was stirred for a further 2h. The solvent was then removed in vacuo; the residue was dissolved in ethyl acetate (50 mL), washed with water (50 mL) and the organic phase dried and the solvent removed under reduced pressure. The resulting solid was recrystallised from methanol, collected and washed with cold acetonitrile (4x) to afford 3-[5-(2-hydroxypropyl)-4-phenyl-imidazol-1-ylmethyl]-phenol (210 mg, 50%) as a white solid; mp 193-194 °C. H NMR (200 MHz, CD ₃ OD) δ 7.72 (s, 1 H), 7.62 (m, 2H), 7.39 (m, 2H), 7.28 (d, 1 H, J=7.4 Hz), 7.18 (m, 1 H), 6.72 (m, 1 H), 6.65 (d, 2H, J^7.6 Hz), 6.54 (s, 1 H), 5.34 (d, 1 H, J^16.0 Hz), 5.24 (d, 1 H, J^16.0 Hz), 3.90 (sextet, 1 H), 2.82 (d, 2H, J^6.4 Hz), 1.05 (d, 3H, J^6.2 Hz). ³ C NMR (50 MHz, CD ₃ OD) δ 159.3, 140.2, 139.8, 138.7, 136.4, 131.1 , 129.5, 128.7, 127.9, 127.4, 118.9, 1 15.9, 114.6, 68.4, 34.1 , 23.3. ESIMS: m/z 309 [M+H] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C ₁₉ H2oN ₂ 02 308.1519, found 308.1517. HPLC purity = 98%.

[0099] 4-Toluenesulfinic acid. A 500 mL Erlenmeyer flask was charged with 4- toluenesulfinic acid sodium salt tetrahydrate (26.82 g, 0.11 mol) and water (134 mL) and stirred for 30 min until all the solid dissolved, tert- Butyl methyl ether (134 ml_) was added to the stirred solution followed by the slow addition of 32% HCI (12.2 ml_, 0.1 1 mol) over 5 min. The reaction was stirred for 30 min and transferred to a separatory funnel, and the organic phase separated and diluted with toluene (134 ml_). The solvent was concentrated to ca. 50 ml_ on a rotary evaporator, after which heptane (40 ml_) was added to give a solid that was collected using a Buchner funnel. Subsequent washing with heptane (50 ml_) and drying under vacuum gave 4-toluenesulfinic acid (15.48 g, 93%) as a white solid.

[00100] A -(a-Tosylbenzyl)formamide. A 500 ml_, three-necked, flask fitted with a reflux condenser was charged with acetonitrile (35 ml_), toluene (35 ml_), benzaldehyde (6.74 ml_, 66 mmol), formamide (6.57 ml_, 166 mmol) and TMSCI (9.18 ml_, 72 mmol). After heating the reaction mixture for 4 h at 50 °C (internal temperature), 4-toluenesulfinic acid (15.48 g, 99 mmol) was added with stirring. Within 1 h a solid had formed and the reaction was stirred with a teflon stirring rod every 30 min for a period of 4h. The reaction was then allowed to cool to room temperature, and ferf-butylmethyl ether (35 ml_) was added and the stirring continued for 5 min after which water (170 ml_) was added. The solid was collected on a Buchner funnel, washed with ferf-butylmethyl ether (2x50 ml_) and dried in vacuo to give A/-(a-tosylbenzyl)formamide (16.73 g, 82%). H NMR (200 MHz, DMSO-d ₆ ) δ 9.77 (d, 1 H, J^10.6 Hz) 7.96 (s, 1 H), 7.71 (d, 2H, J^8.2 Hz), 7.54 (m, 2H), 7.42 (m, 5H), 6.38 (d, 1 H, J^10.6 Hz), 2.41 (s, 3H).

[00101] a-Tosylbenzylisocyanide (C). A 500 ml_, three-necked, flask fitted with a thermometer was charged with A/-(a-tosylbenzyl)formamide (16.73 g, 57.8 mmol) and dry THF (120 ml_). Phosphorus oxychloride (10.78 ml_, 1 16.0 mmol) was added via syringe and resulting solution allowed to stir for 5 min at 25 °C. After cooling the solution to ca. 0 °C with an ice/salt bath, triethylamine (48.4 ml_, 347.0 mmol) was added by means of a dropping funnel over 45 min whilst keeping the internal temperature below 10 °C. After the triethylamine addition was complete, the reaction was stirred for 45 min at 5-10 °C (ice bath). Ethyl acetate (85 ml_) then water (85 ml_) was added to the reaction, the mixture stirred for 5 min and, after transferring the mixture to a separatory funnel, the aqueous layer removed. The organic phase was washed with water (2x85 ml_), saturated sodium bicarbonate solution (85 ml_), brine (50 ml_) and concentrated under reduced pressure until a slurry remained. The residue was diluted with n-propanol (85 ml_) and concentrated to half its original volume. The precipitate was cooled to 0 °C for 15 min, collected on a Buchner funnel, washed with n-propanol (2x50 ml_) and dried in vacuo. This afforded a-tosylbenzylisocyanide (7.47 g, 48%) as a beige solid. H NMR (200 MHz, CDCIs) δ 7.60 (d, 2H, J^8.2 Hz) 7.30-7.52 (m, 7H), 5.61 (s, 1 H), 2.47 (s, 3H). [00102] 3-(Benzyloxy)benzyl azide. To a stirred solution of 3-benzyloxybenzyl alcohol (5.0 g, 23.3 mmol) and diphenylphosphoryl azide (6.03 mL, 28.0 mmol) in dry toluene (40 mL) at 0 °C, under an argon atmosphere, was added 1 ,8- diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (3.83 mL, 25.6 mmol). The resulting mixture was allowed to warm to ambient temperature, and stirred for 18 h. The reaction mixture was washed with water (2x) and 5% HCI solution (1x), then dried and concentrated under reduced pressure. The crude material was filtered through a short column of silica, eluting with 4/96 ethyl acetate/pentane, to afford 3-(benzyloxy) benzyl azide (5.28 g, 95%) as a clear colourless oil. H NMR (200 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 7.48-7.22 (m, 6H); 6.99-6.86 (m, 3H); 5.07 (s, 2H); 4.30 (s, 2H). ³ C NMR (50 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 159.4, 137.2, 137.0, 130.1 , 128.8, 128.3, 127.7, 120.9, 114.9, 114.9, 70.3, 54.9. u _N cm ^"1 2101.

[00103] 3-(Benzyloxy)benzylamine(D). 3-(Benzyloxy)benzyl azide (1.0 g, 4.2 mmol) was dissolved in anhydrous THF (20 mL) and the solution cooled to -70 °C. Solid lithium aluminium hydride (238 mg, 6.3 mmol) in THF (6 mL) was added dropwise under an argon atmosphere. After the addition, the reaction was allowed to warm to 0 °C and stirred for 1 h. The reaction was carefully quenched with water, then 1.0 M Rochelle's salt was added and extracted with diethyl ether (3x). The combined organic extracts were washed with brine (1x) then dried and concentrated to afford 3- (benzyloxy)benzylamine (787 mg, 88%) as a clear, pale yellow oil. Further purification was not required. H NMR (200 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 7.48-7.17 (m, 6H); 6.98-6.79 (m, 3H); 5.06 (s, 2H); 3.83 (s, 2H), 1.43 (br s, 2H).

[00104] Ethyl 3,3-ethylenedioxybutanoate. A mixture of ethyl acetoacetate (9.72 mL, 76.84 mmol), ethylene glycol (7.50 mL, 134.50 mmol) and p-toluenesulfonic acid (15 mg, 0.08 mmol) in benzene (125 mL) was heated at reflux under Dean-Stark conditions for 24 h. The reaction mixture was allowed to cool, then washed with 5% NaHC0 ₃ solution (1x) and water (2x), dried and concentrated to afford ethyl 3,3-ethylenedioxy-butanoate (11.67 g, 87%) as a clear, colourless oil. Further purification was not required. H NMR (200 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 4.16 (q, 2H, J^7.2 Hz); 3.97 (s, 4H); 2.66 (s, 2H); 1.50 (s, 3H); 1.26 (t, 3H, J^7.2 Hz). ³ C NMR (100 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 169.7, 107.9, 65.0, 60.8, 44.5, 24.7, 14.4. i crrf ¹ 1741.

[00105] 3,3-Ethylenedioxy-1-butanol. A solution of ethyl 3,3-ethylenedioxybutanoate (5.0 g, 28.70 mmol) in anhydrous THF (10 mL) was added dropwise under an argon atmosphere, to a suspension of lithium aluminium hydride (1.10 g, 28.70 mmol) in THF (50 mL) at -10 °C. The reaction was stirred at 0 °C for 1.5 h, and then quenched with a 1.0 M solution of Rochelle's salt (75 mL). The mixture was extracted with diethyl ether (3x), then the combined organic extracts washed with brine (1x) then dried and concentrated to afford 3,3-ethylenedioxy-1-butanol (3.43 g, 90%) as a clear, pale yellow liquid. Further purification was not required. H NMR (200 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 3.99 (s, 4H), 3.76 (q, 2H, J^5.6 Hz), 2.78 (t, 1 H, J^5.6 Hz), 1.95 (m, 2H), 1.36 (s, 3H).

[00106] 3,3-Ethylenedioxy-1-butanal (E). Into a dropping funnel was added dry DMSO (4.42 mL, 62.3 mmol) and dry dichloromethane (25 mL). This solution was added dropwise over a period of 10 min to a stirred solution of oxalyl chloride (2.64 mL, 31.14 mmol) in dry dichloromethane (75 mL) at -78 °C. After 10 min, a solution of 2-(2-methyl- 1 ,3-dioxolan-2-yl)ethanol (3.43 g, 26.0 mmol) in dry dichloromethane (25 mL) was added dropwise (by means of a dropping funnel) over a period of 10 min. The resultant solution was stirred at -78 °C for 15 min, and then triethylamine (14.47 mL, 103.8 mmol) was added dropwise via syringe. The cooling bath was removed and the reaction mixture allowed to stir for a further 30 min. Water (70 mL) was then added, and stirring continued for a further 10 min. The organic phase was separated, and the aqueous phase washed with dichloromethane (70 mL). The combined organics were washed with water (4x70 mL), dried and the solvent removed in vacuo. The residue was purified by filtration through a small plug of silica gel (dichloromethane) to give 2-(2-methyl-[1 ,3]- dioxolan-2-yl)acetaldehyde (1.40 g, 42%) as a pale yellow oil. H NMR (200 MHz, CDCIs) δ 9.75 (t, 1 H, J^2.8 Hz), 4.04-3.98 (m, 4H), 2.71 (d, 2H, J^2.8 Hz), 1.43 (s, 3H).

[00107] (S)-ieri-Butyl-(4-amino-5-oxo-5-phenylamino)pentanoate (14). To a stirred solution of (S)-2-(9/--fluoren-9-ylmethoxycarbonylamino)-5-ferf-butoxy-5 -oxo-pentanoic acid (25.3 g, 57 mmol) in DMF (150 mL) was added A/-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-/V- ethylcarbodiimide (12.08 g, 63 mmol), 1-hydroxybenzotriazole hydrate (8.51 g, 63 mmol) and aniline (5.2 mL, 57 mmol), and the reaction mixture allowed to stir at ambient temperature for 2 days. Water (300 mL) was added followed by ethyl acetate (300 mL). The mixture was transferred to a separatory funnel and the layers separated. The aqueous layer was extracted twice more with ethyl acetate. The combined organic layers were washed with water (2x300 mL), dried and the solvent removed in vacuo to give crude (S -ferf-butyl-4-(9/--fluoren-9-ylmethoxycarbonylamino)-5-oxo-5 - (phenylamino)pentanoate as a yellow oil. It was used without purification in the next step. To a stirred solution of crude (S -ferf-butyl-4-(9/--fluoren-9- ylmethoxycarbonylamino)-5-oxo-5-(phenylamino)pentanoate in dichloromethane (300 mL) was added tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (40 mL, 267 mmol) and the reaction mixture stirred at ambient temperature for 1-2 h. The reaction mixture was then washed with pH 5.5 phosphate buffer (2x200 mL), then water (200 mL), dried and the solvent removed in vacuo. The residue was dissolved in dichloromethane and an insoluble by-product was removed by filtration. The solution was preadsorbed onto Celite, then chromatographed (DCVC) eluting with gradient of chloroform in PE, and then a gradient of ethyl acetate in chloroform. Like fractions were combined to give (S)-ferf-butyl-(4-amino-5-oxo-5- phenylamino)pentanoate (10.85 g, 68%) as pale yellow oil. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 9.41 (br s, 1 H), 7.63-7.55 (m, 2H), 7.37-7.28 (m, 2H), 7.12-7.07 (m, 1 H), 3.51 (dd, J^7.6, 5.0 Hz, 1 H), 2.49-2.34 (m, 2H), 2.26-2.15 (m, 1 H), 1.96-1.84 (m, 1 H), 1.66 (br s, 2H), 1.45 (s, 9H). ³ C NMR (50 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 172.8, 172.6, 137.7, 129.0, 124.1 , 1 19.4, 80.8, 55.2, 32.2, 30.2, 28.1. EIMS: m/z 278 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C ₁₅ H ₂₂ N ₂ 0 ₃ 278.1625, found 278.1612.

[00108] (S)-ferf-butyl 4-[(3-benyloxy)phenylamino]-5-oxo-5- (phenylamino)pentanoate (15). A solution of 3-(benzyloxy)phenylboronic acid (7.05 g, 30.0 mmol) in toluene (150 mL) was azeotropically refluxed for 2.5 h, under nitrogen, to form 2,4,6-tris(3-benzyloxy)phenyl)-1 ,3,5,2,4,6-trioxatriborinane. Toluene was removed in vacuo and to the residue, at ambient temperature, was added a solution of (S)-tert- butyl-(4-amino-5-oxo-5-phenylamino)pentanoate (4.30 g, 15.5 mmol) in dichloromethane (100 mL), pyridine (2.5 mL, 30.9 mmol) and anhydrous copper(ll) acetate (4.64 g, 23.2 mmol). The reaction mixture was opened to the air and allowed to stir at ambient temperature for 2 days. The reaction mixture was then poured onto a short column packed with silica gel and topped with a layer of Celite. The crude product was eluted with chloroform and fractions containing the crude product were combined. The crude material was preadsorbed onto Celite and then purified by silica gel DCVC eluting with a gradient of chloroform in PE (60-100% chloroform) to give (S)-ferf-butyl 4-[(3- benyloxy)phenylamino]-5-oxo-5-(phenylamino)pentanoate (3.35 g, 50%) as a pale tan oil. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 8.69 (br s, 1 H), 7.57-7.48 (m, 2H), 7.46-7.23 (m, 7H), 7.15-7.06 (m, 2H), 6.49-6.42 (m, 1 H), 6.33-6.24 (m, 2H), 5.06-5.02 (m, 1 H), 5.00 (s, 2H), 3.80-3.72 (m, 1 H), 2.67-2.54 (m, 1 H), 2.49-2.37 (m, 1 H), 2.36-2.24 (m, 1 H), 2.21-2.09 (m, 1 H), 1.46 (s, 9H). ³ C NMR (50 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 173.6, 171.3, 160.0, 148.2, 137.3, 136.9, 130.2, 128.9, 128.5, 127.8, 127.4, 124.4, 119.9, 106.8, 105.5, 100.8, 81.3, 69.8, 61.1 , 32.7, 28.0, 27.8. EIMS: m/z 460 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C2 ₈ H ₃ 2N2O4 460.2357, found 460.2341.

[00109] (S)-ferf-butyl 4-[A -(3-benzyloxy)phenyl-2-bromoacetamido]-5-oxo-5- (phenylamino)pentanoate (16). To a stirred solution of (S)-ferf-butyl 4-(3- benyloxyphenylamino)-5-oxo-5-(phenylamino)pentanoate (4.05 g, 8.80 mmol) in dichloromethane (80 mL), under nitrogen and at -30°C was added sequentially triethylamine (1.22 mL, 8.80 mmol), A/,A/-dimethylaminopyridine (20 mg) and bromoacetyl bromide (941 μΙ_, 10.80 mmol). The reaction mixture was allowed to warm up to ambient temperature and then stirred for 30 min. The reaction mixture was transferred to a separatory funnel, washed with 10% citric acid (50 mL) and brine (2 x 50 mL), dried and the solvent removed in vacuo. The residue was preadsorbed onto Celite, then purified by silica gel DCVC to (S)-ferf-butyl 4-[A/-(3-benzyloxy)phenyl-2-bromoacetamido]-5-oxo- 5-(phenylamino)pentanoate (4.28 g, 83%) as a pale yellow oil. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 8.61 (br s, 1 H), 7.63-7.53 (m, 2H), 7.49-7.21 (m, 8H), 7.17-7.09 (m, 1 H), 7.08- 7.02 (1 H), 6.89-6.84 (m, 2H), 5.21 (dd, J^8.8, 6.2 Hz, 1 H), 5.04 (br s, 2H), 3.64 (dd, J=19.7, 11.2 Hz, 2H), 2.44-2.19 (m, 2H), 2.05-1.91 (m, 1 H), 1.80-1.67 (m, 1 H), 1.43 (s, 9H). ³ C NMR (50 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 171.8, 168.2, 167.8, 159.4, 138.3, 137.8, 136.1 , 130.4, 128.9, 128.5, 128.1 , 127.5, 124.3, 121.4, 119.9, 116.6, 1 15.5, 80.7, 70.2, 59.4, 31.8, 28.0, 27.4, 23.9. EIMS: m/z 581 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for CsoHssBrNzOs 580.1567, found 580.1547.

[001 10] (S)-ferf-Butyl 3-[1-(3-benzyloxy)phenyl-3,6-dioxo-4-phenylpiperazine-2- yl]propanoate (17). To a stirred solution of (S)-ferf-butyl 4-[A/-(3-benzyloxy)phenyl-2- bromoacetamido]-5-oxo-5-(phenylamino)pentanoate (4.15 g, 7.15 mmol) in DMF (70 mL), under nitrogen and cooled in an ice-bath, was added cesium carbonate (2.33 g, 7.15 mmol). The reaction mixture was allowed to warm up to ambient temperature and was stirred for 4 h. The mixture was cooled in an ice-bath and water (100 mL) was added followed by ethyl acetate (100 mL). The mixture was transferred to a separatory funnel and the layers separated. The aqueous phase was extracted twice more with ethyl acetate. The combined organic layers were washed with 10% citric acid (100 mL), saturated sodium bicarbonate (100 mL) and brine (100 mL), dried and the solvent removed in vacuo. The residue was preadsorbed onto Celite then purified by silica gel DCVC. Like fractions were combined, then triturated with diethyl ether to give (S)-tert- butyl 3-[1-(3-benzyloxy)phenyl-3,6-dioxo-4-phenylpiperazine-2-yl]p ropanoate (4.18 g, 59%) as a colourless solid; mp 141.6-143.6°C. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 7.48-7.29 (m, 1 1 H), 7.03-6.95 (m, 3H), 5.08 (s, 2H), 4.55 (dd, J=17.6, 17.0 Hz, 2H), 4.45 (dd, J^9.1 , 5.2 Hz, 1 H), 2.52-2.14 (m, 4H), 1.37 (s, 9H). ³ C NMR (50 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 171.4, 165.7, 163.8, 159.6, 139.9, 139.8, 136.5, 130.4, 129.3, 128.6, 128.1 , 127.6, 127.4, 125.1 , 119.3, 114.7, 113.7, 81.0, 70.25, 63.9, 52.9, 30.6, 28.0, 26.9. EIMS: m/z 500 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for Cs^NzOs 500.2306, found 500.2294.

[001 11] (S)-ferf-Butyl 3-[1-(3-benzyloxy)phenyl-4-phenylpiperazine-2- yl]propanoate (18). To a stirred solution of (S)-ferf-butyl 3-[1-(3-benzyloxy)phenyl-3,6- dioxo-4-phenylpiperazine-2-yl]propanoate (2.97 g, 5.95 mmol) in anhydrous THF (40 mL) under nitrogen, was added borane-methylsulfide complex (7.14 ml_, 14.30 mmol, 2M in THF) and the reaction allowed to stir at ambient temperature for 20 h. The reaction mixture was then cooled in an ice-bath and a solution of methanol (2 ml_) in THF (8 ml_) was added dropwise. The solvent was removed in vacuo, whereupon more methanol (10 ml_) was added. The solvent was removed in vacuo and this procedure was repeated once more. The residue was preadsorbed onto Celite then purified by silica gel (DCVC) eluting with a gradient of ethyl acetate in PE (2%-7% ethyl acetate) to give (S)- ferf-butyl 3-[1-(3-benzyloxy)phenyl-4-phenylpiperazine-2-yl]propanoate (2.08 g, 74%) as a pale yellow oil. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 7.47-7.42 (m, 2H), 7.42-7.35 (m, 2H), 7.35-7.25 (m, 3H), 7.19-7.13 (m, 1 H), 6.97-6.92 (m, 2H), 6.91-6.85 (m, 1 H), 6.57-6.52 (m, 2H), 6.48-6.42 (m, 1 H), 5.06 (s, 2H), 3.97-3.88 (m, 1 H), 3.61-3.50 (m, 2H), 3.50-3.41 (m, 1 H), 3.38-3.27 (m, 1 H), 3.13-3.04 (m, 1 H), 3.03-2.29 (m, 1 H), 2.33-2.14 (m, 2H), 2.12-1.90 (m, 2H), 1.41 (s, 9H). ³ C NMR (100 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 172.6, 160.1 , 151.7, 151.2, 137.3, 13.0, 129.2, 128.5, 127.9, 127.6, 119.9, 116.4, 108.8, 104.5, 103.2, 80.4, 70.0, 55.2, 51.8, 48.8, 43.1 , 32.7, 28.1 , 22.8. EIMS: m/z 472 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C30H36N2O3 472.2720, found 472.2710.

[001 12] (S)-3-[1-(3-Hydroxy)phenyl-4-phenylpiperazin-2-yl]propanoic acid (19). To a stirred solution of (S)-ferf-butyl 3-[1-(3-benzyloxy)phenyl-4-phenylpiperazine-2- yl]propanoate (0.82 g, 1.75 mmol) in trifluoroacetic acid (3.5 ml_) was added thioanisole (620 μΙ_, 5.22 mmol) and the reaction allowed to stir at ambient temperature for 3 days. The reaction mixture was then cooled to 0 °C, and water (10 ml_) was slowly added followed by EtOAc (15 ml_). The mixture was transferred to a separatory funnel, the layers separated and the aqueous phase extracted twice more with EtOAc, dried and the solvent removed in vacuo. The dark tan oil was predsorbed onto Celite, then

chromatographed (DCVC) eluting with a gradient of methanol in chloroform (0-5% MeOH) to give (S)-3-[1-(3-hydroxy)phenyl-4-phenylpiperazin-2-yl]propanoic acid (418 mg, 70%) as a tan foam. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 7.37-7.31 (m, 2H), 7.30-7.24 (m, 2H), 7.17 (br s, 1 H), 7.08-7.00 (m, 3H), 6.92-6.79 (m, 2H), 3.99-3.89 (m, 1 H), 3.70-3.37 (m, 6H), 2.42-2.18 (m, 2H), 2.02-1.88 (m, 2H). ³ C NMR (50 MHz, MeOH-d ₄ ) δ 175.8, 160.6, 151.0, 144.0, 132.6, 130.6, 123.0, 118.5, 116.7, 1 12.7, 109.3, 63.7, 55.6, 53.7, 49.2, 30.8, 25.0. EIMS: m/z 326 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C ₁₉ H ₂₂ N ₂ 0 ₃ 326.1625, found 326.1620.

[001 13] (S)-3-[1-(3-Benzyloxy)phenyl-4-phenylpiperazin-2-yl]propanoi c acid (230 mg, 30%) was also obtained from this reaction and was isolated as a pale tan foam. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 10.59 (br s, 1 H), 7.45-7.25 (m, 8H), 7.17-6.90 (m, 6H), 5.07 (s, 2H), 3.99-3.88 (m, 1 H), 3.76-3.41 (m, 6H), 2.33-2.15 (m, 2H). ³ C NMR (100 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 176.2 160.1 , 148.9, 144.3, 136.2, 131.1 , 129.6, 128.7, 128.2, 127.6, 122.8, 1 17.8, 113.5, 112.6, 107.5, 70.3, 60.5, 52.7, 52.4, 48.9, 29.9, 23.3. EIMS: m/z 416 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C2 ₆ H2 ₈ N2O ₃ 416.2094, found 416.2091.

[001 14] (S)-3-[1-(3-Hydroxy)phenyl-4-phenylpiperazin-2-yl]propanamid e (VB0005).

To a stirred solution of (S)-3-[1-(3-hydroxy)phenyl-4-phenylpiperazin-2-yl]propanoic acid (0.76 g, 2.32 mmol) in THF (20 mL) was added 1 , 1 '-carbonyldimidazole (0.94 g, 5.80 mmol) and the reaction stirred for 2 h. Aqueous ammonia solution (25%) (20 mL) was added and the reaction stirred for a further 3 h. The reaction mixture was transferred to a separatory funnel and the layers separated. The aqueous phase was then extracted with ethyl acetate (2x20 mL). Combined organic layers were washed with brine (20 mL), dried and concentrated in vacuo. The crude residue was passed through a short florsil column eluting with a gradient of EtOAc in PE (50-100% ethyl acetate). Like fractions were combined, dissolved in dichloromethane (20 mL) and washed with water (3x20 mL). A solid crystallised out from the wet dichloromethane. Petroleum ether 40-60 °C was added and the mixture left for 1 h. The resultant solid was collected by filtration to give racemic product (100 mg, 13%). The filtrate was concentrated to dryness to give (S)-3-[1-(3-hydroxy)phenyl-4-phenylpiperazin-2-yl]propanamid e (185 mg, 21 %) as a pale tan foam. H NMR (400 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 7.31-7.24 (m, 2H), 7.13-7.06 (m, 1 H), 6.95-6.84 (m, 4H), 6.47-6.41 (m, 2H), 6.35-6.30 (m, 1 H), 5.74 (br s, 1 H), 5.53 (br s, 1 H), 4.00-3.91 (m, 1 H), 3.60-3.41 (m, 3H), 3.35-3.23 (m, 1 H), 3.10-3.00 (m, 1 H), 3.00-2.90 (m, 2H), 2.32-1.96 (m, 4H). ³ C NMR (50 MHz, CDCI ₃ ) δ 176.0, 157.3, 151.6, 151.2, 130.4, 129.2, 119.9, 116.4, 107.5, 106.3, 102.9, 54.7, 51.7, 48.8, 42.9, 32.7, 23.4. EIMS: m/z 325 [M] ⁺ . HRMS calcd for C1 ₉ H2 ₃ N ₃ O2 325.1790, found 325.1776. [a] _D = -13.5° (CHCI ₃ , c = 0.005).

[001 15] 3-[5-(2-hydroxypropyl)-4-phenyl-imidazol-1 -ylmethyl]phenol

hydrochloride (20). A solution of 3-[5-(2-hydroxypropyl)-4-phenyl-imidazol-1- ylmethyl]phenol (14 mg, 0.05 mmol), concentrated hydrochloric acid (3.6 μί, 0.05 mmol) and methanol (1 mL) was allowed to stir at ambient temperature for 20 min. The solvent was then removed in vacuo; the residue was then taken up in diethyl ether (2 mL), the solvent removed under reduced pressure and the procedure repeated. The resulting white foam was dried in vacuo at 35 °C, dissolved in water (10 mL), filtered through a plug of glass filter paper and freeze-dried to afford 3-[5-(2-hydroxypropyl)-4-phenyl- imidazol-1-ylmethyl]phenol hydrochloride as a fluffy white solid; mp 84-88 °C. H NMR (400 MHz, CD ₃ OD) δ 8.84 (s, 1 H), 7.63 (m, 2H), 7.53 (m, 3H), 7.25 (m, 1 H), 6.81 (m, 1 H), 6.77 (d, 1 H, J^8.0 Hz), 6.70 (s, 1 H), 5.53 (d, 1 H, J=16.0 Hz), 5.48 (d, 1 H, J=16.0 Hz), 3.92 (sextet, 1 H), 2.85 (d, 2H, J^8.0 Hz), 1.12 (d, 3H, J^8.0 Hz). ³ C NMR (125 MHz, CD ₃ OD) δ 159.8, 136.9, 136.3, 133.3, 131.8, 131.0, 130.5, 130.4, 129.7, 129.0, 1 19.8, 117.0, 115.7, 67.9, 52.3, 33.3, 23.8.

[001 16] The synthesis schemes, processes and reagents for the production of other compounds of the present invention will be readily apparent to the skilled addressee based on the above information, commercially-available reagents and routine knowledge in the field of organic chemistry and compound synthesis.

Example 2 - in vivo experiments

[001 17] Fourteen week old spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHR; Australian Animal Resources Centre, WA) on a 2.2% salt diet (Glenn Forrest Stockfeeders, WA) were randomized to the following treatment groups: 14-week control, or VB0002 infusion (20 pmol/kg/min in 20% DMSO) or vehicle control infusion (20% DMSO) for 4 weeks.

VB0002 and vehicle control infusions were via Alzet osmotic minipump, which was inserted under general anaesthesia (Isoflurane 3% in oxygen) at 14 weeks.

[001 18] Fourteen week old spontaneous hypertensive rats on a 2.2% salt diet were also randomized to the following treatment groups: 14-week control, or VB0003 administration (10, 100 or 500 pmol/kg/min in 5% ethanol), VB0005 administration (100 pmol/kg/min in 5% ethanol) or drinking solution (5% ethanol) administration for 4 weeks.

[001 19] The 14-week control group were anaesthetized using isoflurane (3%) delivered in oxygen, then had blood sampled and hearts and kidneys harvested for quantitation of fibrosis. The remaining groups were weighed and had blood pressure measured by tail cuff plethysmography (ADI Instruments) twice weekly for a further 4 weeks. After 4 weeks treatment, rats were anaesthetized and samples collected as per the 14-week control group. Results are mean + sem for n=5 rats per group.

[00120] For quantitation of fibrosis, tissue slices < 3 mm thick were fixed in 10% buffered formalin for 24 hours, processed and embedded in paraffin. Three μηι transverse sections were stained using Masson's Trichrome. A minimum of 20 random fields at 40x magnification from transverse sections (5 at each of 2 levels) were digitized. The degree of fibrosis was determined as a percent of field area of each digitized image using Image-Pro Plus V.5 (Media Cybernetics, Bethesda, MD, USA), and then averaged to determine the level of fibrosis for each rat. [00121] Systolic blood pressure in rats treated with VB0002, VB0003 and VB0005 was reduced compared to 18 week controls (Figures 8 and 9), showing that these

compounds are effective in lowering blood pressure.

[00122] Myocardial fibrosis in rats treated with VB0002 at 20 pmol/kg/min was reduced compared to 14 week controls and 18 week controls (Figure 10), showing that this compound reduces the development of myocardial fibrosis and reverses established myocardial fibrosis.

[00123] Myocardial fibrosis in rats treated with VB0003 at 10, 100 and 500 pmol/kg/min was reduced compared to 18 week controls (Figure 1 1), showing that these compounds reduce the development of myocardial fibrosis. Myocardial fibrosis in rats treated with VB0003 at 100 and 500 pmol/kg/min was reduced compared to 14 week controls (Figure 11), showing that these dosages of the compound reverse established myocardial fibrosis.

[00124] Myocardial fibrosis in rats treated with VB0005 at 100 pmol/kg/min was reduced compared to 14 week controls and 18 week controls (Figure 10), showing that this compound reduces the development of myocardial fibrosis and reverses established myocardial fibrosis (Figure 12).