BACKGROUND Field of the Invention This invention relates to novel multibinding compounds that bind to leukotriene receptors and inhibit their activity. In particular, cysteinal leukotriene receptor antagonists and, most particularly leukotriene D4 receptor antagonist compounds are disclosed. The compounds of this invention comprise 2-10 leukotriene receptor ligands covalently connected by a linker or linkers, wherein the ligands in their monovalent (i. e., unlinked) state bind to one or more types of leukotriene receptors. The manner of linking the ligands together is such that the multibinding agents thus formed demonstrate an increased biologic and/or therapeutic effect as compared to the same number of unlinked ligands made available for binding to the leukotriene receptors. The invention also relates to methods of using such compounds and to methods of preparing them.

The compounds of this invention are particularly useful for treating diseases and conditions of mammals that are mediated by leukotriene receptors. Accordingly, this invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient and an effective amount of a compound of this invention.

References The following publications are cited in this application as superscript numbers: <BR> <BR> 'Gareau, Yves, International Publication No. : WO 96/40638,19 December 1996.<BR> <BR> <P> 'Axison, Byron, H., International Publication No. : WO 98/39970,17 September 1998.

3Brown, Frederick Jeffrey, European Patent No. : 0199543 A2,29.10.86 Bulletin 86/44.<BR> <BR> <P> 4Brooks, Clint D. W. and Summers, James B., Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, Volume 39, Number 14, July 5,1996.

5Brown, Frederick J., et. al., J. Med. Chem., 33,1771-1781,1990.

6Brown, Frederick J., et. al., J. Med. Chem., 35, 2419-2439, 1992.

'Gauthier, J. Y., et. al., J Med. Chem. 33,2841-2845,1990.

8Granl, A., et. al., J. Med. Chem., 22 (10) ; 1103-1111,1997. <BR> <BR> <P> 9Jacobs, Robert T., et. al., J. Med. Chem, 37,1282-1297,1994.<BR> <BR> <P> '°Jones, T. R., et. al., Can. J PhysioL PharmacoL, 67: 17-28.

"Krell, Robert D., et. al., AMREVRESPIR DIS, 141: 978-987,1990.

'2Lau, C. K., et. al., Biorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters, Vo. 5, No. 15, pp.

1615-1620,1995.

'3Matassa, Victor G., et. al., J. Med. Chem., 33, 1781-1790,1990.

'4Matassa, Victor G., et. al., J. Med. Chem., 33, 2621-2629,1990.

'5McNamara, J. M., et. al., J. Org. Chem., 54,3718-3721,1989.

'6Spector, M. D., Sheldon L., Annals ofAllergy, Asthma, and Immunology, Volume 75, December (Part 1), 1995. <BR> <BR> <P> '7Yee, Ying K., et. al., J Med Chem., 33,2437-2451,1990.<BR> <BR> <P> '8Zamboni, R., et. al., J. Med. Chem., 35,3832-3844,1992.<BR> <BR> <P> '9Zwaagstra, Mariel E., et. al., J Med Chem., 40,1075-1089,1997.

20Zhang, et al., Bioorg. Med. Chem. Lett., 7: 1331-1336,1997.

2'Horwitz, et al., Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med., 157: 1363-1371,1998.

The disclosure of each of the above publications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference in its entirety.

State of the Art Leukotrienes (LTs) are the products of arachidonic acid metabolism. There are two major pathways of arachidonic acid metabolism: 1) conversion to prostaglandins and thromboxane; and 2) conversion into leukotrienes. Figure 1A provides an overview of these pathways, while Figure 1B provides a more detailed illustration of the synthesis of the various leukotrienes, as well as giving the chemical structure of leukotrienes LTC4, LTD4 and LTE4.

These leukotrienes are also referred to as the peptidyl or cysteinyl leukotrienes because each contains a thioether-linked peptide. l6 Until 1979, leukotrienes were known as the slow reacting substance of anaphalaxis (SRS-A). They are synthesized by mast cells and eosinophils.

Leukotriene activities include inducing the contraction of smooth muscle, bronchioles and coronary arteries. They are among the most potent bronchoconstrictors known, being 1000-times more potent than histamine. They also function to induce vasoconstriction, vascular permeability and edema formation, and are known to induce eosinophil recruitment.

They cause increased mucus secretion and decreased mucus transport, as well as increased proliferation of fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells and airway epithelial cells. Generally speaking, LTC4 and LTD4 are nearly equipotent, and are more potent than LTE4.

They are implicated in a variety of pathophysiological disorders and conditions, including asthma and allergy. Leukotrienes are present in increased amounts in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and urine both during spontaneous asthma exacerbations and after antigen challenge. Inhalation of LTs induces hyperresponsiveness, e. g., increased responsiveness to inhaled metacholine or histamine. Inhalation of LTE4 induces an increase in the number of eosinophils in the airway mucosa.

Two types of peptidyl leukotriene receptors (referred to as Cys-LT receptors) are known, although neither receptor has been cloned. They are designated Cys-LTl and Cys- LT2. Cys-LT1 is a G-protein coupled receptor which is involved in bronchial smooth muscle contraction. It is predominantly activated by LTD4 and LTE4. The Cys-LTl receptor is sensitive to inhibition by classical LTD4 receptor antagonists. The Cys-LT2 receptor is involved in pulmonary vein contraction. At present it is thought that this protein is probably not a G-protein coupled receptor. The Cys-LT2 receptor is predominantly activated by LTC4, although it may also represent a second receptor for LTD4. It is not blocked by classical LTD4 receptor antagonists. Although a few compounds are known to block both Cys-LTl and Cys-

LT2, no known compounds block only Cys-LT2. Evidence suggesting that Cys-LT1 contains multiple binding sites has been disclosed. In particular, two binding sites for ICI 198,615 have been shown, one high affinity/low capacity site and another low affinity/high capacity site. Further evidence of multiple binding sites can be inferred from the finding that the binding of LTD4 antagonists involves interaction with an arginine residue of the receptor, while binding of LTD4 itself does not20. It is unlikely that the LTD4 receptor is completely blocked by the currently available antagonists2'.

Not surprisingly, leukotrienes and their receptors are recognized as important targets for drug therapy. For example, agents which inhibit 5-lipoxygenase thereby to inhibit LT synthesis have been developed. LT receptors are targeted by certain LT antagonists. These include zafirlukast4 l'l3'6, RG-59014, FPL-557124, L-6499234, L-64805 14, tomelukast4'6, pobilukast',", sulukast, CGP45715A4, SKF106203', Bay-x7l95 4, ritolukaSt4, SR-26404, RG- verlukast4,12,16,montelukast4,8,12,16,pranlukast4,16,ablukas t4andLY-12254,MK-5714,10,15,16, 6489057'6. The chemical structures of several of these agents are set forth in Table 1.

Leukotriene receptor antagonists are used for treatment of asthma and allergy. They may be particularly appropriate for asthmatics who fail to respond adequately to inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) therapy, have systemic side effects from high does ICS therapy or those with poor adherence to a regimen of ICS. LT receptor antagonists may also be useful for patients with aspirin-sensitive asthma or exercise-induced asthma, especially those who are unresponsive to beta-agonists. Montelukast is particularly targeted for asthmatic children who are more than 6 years of age.

As shown in Table 2, several leukotriene antagonists are being developed or are on the market. As the Table shows, they may vary in their receptor binding ability, and other relevant characteristics. Properties of the known LT antagonists zafirlukast and montelukast are given in Table 3.

The clinical shortcomings of LT antagonist drugs in current usage are considerable.

Their most common adverse side effect is headache. Other side effects may include dyspepsia, macular rash and hepatotoxicity. '6 Additionally, increased eosinophils and vasculitis (Churg-Strauss syndrome) may become unmasked during withdrawal of ICS therapy. Most are no more effective than ICS.

Thus, there continues to exist a need for novel compounds with greater tissue selectivity, increased efficacy, reduced side effects and a more favorable duration of action.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION This invention is directed to novel multibinding compounds that bind to leukotriene receptors (especially leukotriene D4 receptors) in mammalian tissues and inhibit their activity. These compounds can be used to treat diseases and conditions mediated by such channels.

This invention is also directed to general synthetic methods for generating large libraries of diverse multimeric compounds which multimeric compounds are candidates for possessing multibinding properties for leukotriene receptors (particularly leukotriene D4 receptors). The diverse multimeric compound libraries provided by this invention are synthesized by combining a linker or linkers with a ligand or ligands to provide for a library of multimeric compounds wherein the linker and ligand each have complementary functional groups permitting covalent linkage. The library of linkers is preferably selected to have diverse properties such as valency, linker length, linker geometry and rigidity, hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity, amphiphilicity, acidity, basicity and polarization. The library of ligands is preferably selected to have diverse attachment points on the same ligand, different functional groups at the same site of otherwise the same ligand, and the like.

This invention is also directed to libraries of diverse multimeric compounds which multimeric compounds are candidates for possessing multibinding properties. These libraries are prepared via the methods described above and permit the rapid and efficient evaluation of what molecular constraints impart multibinding properties to a ligand or a class of ligands targeting a leukotriene receptor.

Accordingly, in one of its composition aspects, this invention is directed to a multibinding compound and salts thereof comprising 2 to 10 ligands which may be the same or different and which are covalently attached to a linker or linkers, which may be the same or different, each of said ligands comprising a ligand domain binding to and inhibiting a leukotriene receptor.

The multibinding compounds of this invention are preferably represented by Formula I: (L) p (X) I where each L is a ligand that may be the same or different at each occurrence; X is a linker that may be the same or different at each occurrence; p is an integer of from 2 to 10; and q is an integer of from 1 to 20; wherein each of said ligands comprises a ligand domain capable of binding to and inhibiting a leukotriene receptor, preferably a leukotriene D4 receptor. Preferably q is less thanp.

Preferably, the binding of the multibinding compound to a leukotriene receptor or receptors in a mammal modulates diseases and conditions mediated by leukotriene receptors.

In another of its composition aspects, this invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient and a therapeutically effective amount of one or more multibinding compounds (or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof) comprising 2 to 10 ligands which may be the same or different and which are covalently attached to a linker or linkers, which may be the same or different, each of said

ligands comprising a ligand domain capable of binding to and inhibiting a leukotriene receptor of a cell mediating mammalian diseases or conditions, thereby modulating the diseases or conditions.

In still another of its composition aspects, this invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient and a therapeutically effective amount of one or more multibinding compounds represented by Formula I: (L)p(X),I or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, where each L is a ligand that may be the same or different at each occurrence; X is a linker that may be the same or different at each occurrence; p is an integer of from 2 to 10; and q is an integer of from 1 to 20; wherein each of said ligands comprises a ligand domain capable of binding to and inhibiting a leukotriene receptor of a cell mediating mammalian diseases or conditions, thereby modulating the diseases or conditions. Preferably q is less thanp.

In one of its method aspects, this invention is directed to a method for modulating the activity of leukotriene receptors, especially leukotriene D4 receptors, in a biologic tissue, which method comprises contacting a tissue having a leukotriene receptor with a multibinding compound (or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof) under conditions sufficient to produce a change in the activity of the receptor in said tissue, wherein the multibinding compound comprises 2 to 10 ligands which may be the same or different and which are covalently attached to a linker or linkers, which may be the same or different, each of said ligands comprising a ligand domain capable of binding and inhibiting a leukotriene receptor.

In another of its method aspects, this invention is directed to a method for treating a disease or condition in a mammal resulting from an activity of a leukotriene receptor, which method comprises administering to said mammal a therapeutically effective amount of a

pharmaceutical composition comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient and one or more multibinding compounds (or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof) comprising 2 to 10 ligands which may be the same or different and which are covalently attached to a linker or linkers, which may be the same or different, each of said ligands comprising a ligand domain capable of binding to and inhibiting a leukotriene receptor of a cell mediating mammalian diseases or conditions.

In yet another of its method aspects, this invention is directed to a method for treating a disease or condition in a mammal resulting from an activity of a leukotriene receptor, which method comprises administering to said mammal a therapeutically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient and one or more multibinding compounds represented by Formula I: (L)p(X)qI and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, where each L is a ligand that may be the same or different at each occurrence; X is a linker that may be the same or different at each occurrence; p is an integer of from 2 to 10; and q is an integer of from 1 to 20; wherein each of said ligands comprises a ligand domain capable of binding to and inhibiting a leukotriene receptor (preferably a leukotriene D4 receptor) of a cell mediating mammalian diseases or conditions. Preferably q is less than p.

In a further aspect, this invention provides processes for preparing the multibinding agents of Formula I. This can be accomplished by combining p appropriately functionalized ligands with q complementary functionalized linkers under conditions where covalent bond formulation between the ligands and linkers occurs; alternatively, linking portions ofp appropriately functionalized ligands to q complementary functionalized linkers and then completing the synthesis of the ligands in a subsequent step may be performed to prepare these compounds. Another method which may be used involves linking p appropriately functionalized ligands to portions of the linker (s) and then completing the synthesis of the linker (s) in a subsequent step. Coupling one or more of an appropriately functionalized

ligand to a complementary functionalized linker, and subsequently coupling one or more additional ligands to said linker or linkers may be done to prepare the claimed compounds.

Coupling as above wherein coupling of different appropriately functionalized linkers occurs simultaneously may also be used.

In one of its method aspects, this invention is directed to a method for identifying multimeric ligand compounds possessing multibinding properties for leukotriene receptors, which method comprises : (a) identifying a ligand or a mixture of ligands wherein each ligand contains at least one reactive functionality; (b) identifying a library of linkers wherein each linker in said library comprises at least two functional groups having complementary reactivity to at least one of the reactive functional groups of the ligand; (c) preparing a multimeric ligand compound library by combining at least two stoichiometric equivalents of the ligand or mixture of ligands identified in (a) with the library of linkers identified in (b) under conditions wherein the complementary functional groups react to form a covalent linkage between said linker and at least two of said ligands; and (d) assaying the multimeric ligand compounds produced in (c) above to identify multimeric ligand compounds possessing multibinding properties.

In another of its method aspects, this invention is directed to a method for identifying multimeric ligand compounds possessing multibinding properties for leukotriene receptors, which method comprises: (a) identifying a library of ligands wherein each ligand contains at least one reactive functionality;

(b) identifying a linker or mixture of linkers wherein each linker comprises at least two functional groups having complementary reactivity to at least one of the reactive functional groups of the ligand; (c) preparing a multimeric ligand compound library by combining at least two stoichiometric equivalents of the library of ligands identified in (a) with the linker or mixture of linkers identified in (b) under conditions wherein the complementary functional groups react to form a covalent linkage between said linker and at least two of said ligands; and (d) assaying the multimeric ligand compounds produced in (c) above to identify multimeric ligand compounds possessing multibinding properties.

The preparation of the multimeric ligand compound library is achieved by either the sequential or concurrent combination of the two or more stoichiometric equivalents of the ligands identified in (a) with the linkers identified in (b). Sequential addition is preferred when a mixture of different ligands is employed to ensure heterodimeric or multimeric compounds are prepared. Concurrent addition of the ligands occurs when at least a portion of the multimer comounds prepared are homomultimeric compounds.

The assay protocols recited in (d) can be conducted on the multimeric ligand compound library produced in (c) above, or preferably, each member of the library is isolated by preparative liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LCMS).

In one of its composition aspects, this invention is directed to a library of multimeric ligand compounds which may possess multivalent properties for leukotriene receptors, which library is prepared by the method comprising: (a) identifying a ligand or a mixture of ligands wherein each ligand contains at least one reactive functionality;

(b) identifying a library of linkers wherein each linker in said library comprises at least two functional groups having complementary reactivity to at least one of the reactive functional groups of the ligand; and (c) preparing a multimeric ligand compound library by combining at least two stoichiometric equivalents of the ligand or mixture of ligands identified in (a) with the library of linkers identified in (b) under conditions wherein the complementary functional groups react to form a covalent linkage between said linker and at least two of said ligands.

In another of its composition aspects, this invention is directed to a library of multimeric ligand compounds which may possess multivalent properties for leukotriene receptors, which library is prepared by the method comprising: (a) identifying a library of ligands wherein each ligand contains at least one reactive functionality; (b) identifying a linker or mixture of linkers wherein each linker comprises at least two functional groups having complementary reactivity to at least one of the reactive functional groups of the ligand; and (c) preparing a multimeric ligand compound library by combining at least two stoichiometric equivalents of the library of ligands identified in (a) with the linker or mixture of linkers identified in (b) under conditions wherein the complementary functional groups react to form a covalent linkage between said linker and at least two of said ligands.

In a preferred embodiment, the library of linkers employed in either the methods or the library aspects of this invention is selected from the group comprising flexible linkers, rigid linkers, hydrophobic linkers, hydrophilic linkers, linkers of different geometry, acidic linkers, basic linkers, linkers of different polarization and amphiphilic linkers. For example, in one embodiment, each of the linkers in the linker library may comprise linkers of different chain length and/or having different complementary reactive groups. Such linker lengths can preferably range from about 2 to 100A.

In another preferred embodiment, the leukotriene receptor ligand or mixture of ligands is selected to have reactive functionality at different sites on said ligands in order to provide for a range of orientations of said ligand on said multimeric ligand compounds.

Such reactive functionality includes, by way of example, carboxylic acids, carboxylic acid halides, carboxyl esters, amines, halides, isocyanates, vinyl unsaturation, ketones, aldehydes, thiols, alcohols, anhydrides, and precursors thereof. It is understood, of course, that the reactive functionality on the ligand is selected to be complementary to at least one of the reactive groups on the linker so that a covalent linkage can be formed between the linker and the ligand.

In other embodiments, the multimeric ligand compound is homomeric (i. e., each of the ligands is the same, although it may be attached at different points) or heterodimeric (i. e., at least one of the ligands is different from the other ligands).

In addition to the combinatorial methods described herein, this invention provides for an iterative process for rationally evaluating what molecular constraints impart multibinding properties to a class of multimeric compounds or ligands targeting a receptor.

Specifically, this method aspect is directed to a method for identifying multimeric ligand compounds possessing multibinding properties for leukotriene receptors which method comprises: (a) preparing a first collection or iteration of multimeric compounds which is prepared by contacting at least two stoichiometric equivalents of the ligand or mixture of ligands which target a receptor with a linker or mixture of linkers wherein said ligand or mixture of ligands comprises at least one reactive functionality and said linker or mixture of linkers comprises at least two functional groups having complementary reactivity to at least one of the reactive functional groups of the ligand wherein said contacting is conducted under conditions wherein the complementary functional groups react to form a covalent linkage between said linker and at least two of said ligands;

(b) assaying said first collection or iteration of multimeric compounds to assess which if any of said multimeric compounds possess multibinding properties; (c) repeating the process of (a) and (b) above until at least one multimeric compound is found to possess multibinding properties; (d) evaluating what molecular constraints imparted multibinding properties to the multimeric compound or compounds found in the first iteration recited in (a)- (c) above; (e) creating a second collection or iteration of multimeric compounds which elaborates upon the particular molecular constraints imparting multibinding properties to the multimeric compound or compounds found in said first iteration; (f) evaluating what molecular constraints imparted enhanced multibinding properties to the multimeric compound or compounds found in the second collection or iteration recited in (e) above; (g) optionally repeating steps (e) and (f) to further elaborate upon said molecular constraints.

Preferably, steps (e) and (f) are repeated at least two times, more preferably at from 2-50 times, even more preferably from 3 to 50 times, and still more preferably at least 5-50 times.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figures 1A and 1B are schematic illustrations of the leukotriene synthesis pathway, including the chemical structures of leukotrienes C4, D4, and E4.

Figure 2 illustrates a method for optimizing the linker geometry for presentation of ligands (filled circles) in bivalent compounds: A. phenyldiacetylene core structure B. cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid core structure

Figure 3 shows exemplary linker"core"structures.

Figure 4 illustrates examples of multi-binding compounds comprising (A) 2 ligands, (B) 3 ligands, (C) 4 ligands, and (D) >4 ligands attached in different formats to a linker.

Figures 5A and 5B illustrate the ligands zafirlukast and montelukast, which may be used in preparing multi-binding compounds. Potentially modifiable positions are indicated by arrows.

Figure 6 illustrates numerous reactive functional groups and the resulting bonds formed by reaction therebetween.

Figures 7A and 7B illustrate different points of attachment for zafirlukast and montelukast multivalomers.

Figures 8 to 11 illustrate convenient methods for preparing the multibinding compounds of this invention. In each of these figures, the jagged lines represent linkers.

Figures 12 and 13 illustrate convenient methods for preparation of starting materials used to prepare the multibinding compounds of this invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Biological systems in general are controlled by molecular interactions between bioactive ligands and their receptors, in which the receptor"recognizes"a molecule or a portion thereof (i. e., a ligand domain) to produce a biological effect. The leukotriene receptors are considered to be pharmacological receptors: They possess specific binding sites for ligands having agonist and antagonist activities. The binding of ligands to such sites modulates smooth muscle contraction, bronchioconstriction, vasoconstriction, vascular

permeability, eosinophil recruitment, mucus secretion and transport, and increased proliferation of fibroblasts, smooth muscles cells and airway epithelial cells. Accordingly, diseases or conditions that involve, or are mediated by, leukotriene receptors can be treated with pharmacologically active ligands that interact with such receptors to initiate, modulate or abrogate leukotriene activity.

The interaction of a leukotriene receptor and a leukotriene receptor-binding ligand may be described in terms of"affinity"and"specificity". The"affinity"and"specificity"of any given ligand-leukotriene receptor interaction is dependent upon the complementarity of molecular binding surfaces and the energetic costs of complexation (i. e., the net difference in free energy between bound and free states). Affinity may be quantified by the equilibrium constant of complex formation, the ratio of on/off rate constants, and/or by the free energy of complex formation.

The net free energy of interaction of such ligand with a leukotriene receptor is the difference between energetic gains (enthalpy gained through molecular complementarity and entropy gained through the hydrophobic effect) and energetic costs (enthalpy lost through decreased solvation and entropy lost through reduced translational, rotational and conformational degrees of freedom).

The compounds of this invention comprise 2 to 10 leukotriene receptor-binding ligands covalently linked together and capable of acting as multibinding agents. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the enhanced activity of these compounds is believed to arise at least in part from their ability to bind in a multivalent manner with multiple ligand binding sites on a leukotriene receptor or receptors, which gives rise to a more favorable net free energy of binding. Multivalent interactions differ from collections of individual monovalent (univalent) interactions by being capable of providing enhanced biologic and/or therapeutic effect. Multivalent binding can amplify binding affinities and differences in binding affinities, resulting in enhanced binding specificity as well as affinity.

Definitions As used herein: The term"alkyl"refers to a monoradical branched or unbranched saturated hydrocarbon chain, preferably having from 1 to 40 carbon atoms, preferably 1-10 carbon atoms, more preferably 1-6 carbon atoms, such as methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, secondary butyl, tert-butyl, n-hexyl, n-octyl, n-decyl, n-dodecyl, 2-ethyldodecyl, tetradecyl, and the like, unless otherwise indicated.

The term"substituted alkyl"refers to an alkyl group as defined above having from 1 to 5 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, substituted cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminoacyl, aminoacyloxy, oxyaminoacyl, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxyl, keto, thioketo, carboxyl, carboxylalkyl, thioaryloxy, thioheteroaryloxy, thioheterocyclooxy, thiol, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclic, heterocyclooxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro,-SO-alkyl,-SO-aryl,-SO-heteroaryl, -SO2-alkyl,-SO2-aryl,-SO2-heteroaryl, and-NRaRb, wherein Ra and Rb may be the same or different and and are chosen from hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic.

The term"alkylene"refers to a diradical of a branched or unbranched saturated hydrocarbon chain, preferably having from 1 to 40 carbon atoms, preferably 1-10 carbon atoms, more preferably 1-6 carbon atoms. This term is exemplified by groups such as methylene (-CH2-), ethylene (-CH2CH2-), the propylene isomers (e. g.,-CH2CH2CH2-and -CH (CH3) CH2-) and the like.

The term"substituted alkylene"refers to: (1) An alkylene group as defined above having from 1 to 5 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, substituted cycloalkenyl, acyl,

acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminoacyl, aminoacyloxy, oxyacylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxyl, keto, thioketo, carboxyl, carboxylalkyl, thiol, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, thioaryloxy, heteroaryl, heteroaryloxy, thioheteroaryloxy, heterocyclic, heterocyclooxy, thioheterocyclooxy, nitro, and-NRaRb, wherein Ra and Rb may be the same or different and are chosen from hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic. Additionally, such substituted alkylene groups include those where 2 substituents on the alkylene group are fused to form one or more cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, substituted cycloalkenyl, aryl, heterocyclic or heteroaryl groups fused to the alkylene group; (2) An alkylene group as defined above that is interrupted by 1-20 atoms independently chosen from oxygen, sulfur and NRa-, where Ra is chosen from hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic, or groups selected from carbonyl, carboxyester, carboxyamide and sulfonyl; and (3) An alkylene group as defined above that has both from 1 to 5 substituents as defined above and is also interrupted by 1-20 atoms as defined above. Examples of substituted alkylenes are chloromethylene (-CH (Cl)-), aminoethylene (-CH (NH2) CH2-), 2-carboxypropylene isomers (-CH2CH (CO2H) CH2-), ethoxyethyl (-CH2CH2O-CH2CH2), ethylmethylaminoethyl (-CH2CH2N (CH3) CH2CH2-), 1-ethoxy-2-(2-ethoxy-ethoxy) ethane (-CH2CH2O-CH2CH2- OCH2CH2-OCH2CH2-), and the like.

The term"alkaryl"or"aralkyl"refers to the groups-alkylene-aryl and-substituted alkylene-aryl in which alkylene and aryl are as defined herein. Such alkaryl groups are exemplified by benzyl, phenethyl and the like.

The term"alkoxy"refers to the groups alkyl-O-, alkenyl-O-, cycloalkyl-O-, cycloalkenyl-O-, and alkynyl-O-, where alkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, and alkynyl are as defined herein. Preferred alkoxy groups are alkyl-O-and include, by way of example, methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, iso-propoxy, n-butoxy, tert-butoxy, sec-butoxy, n-pentoxy, n-hexoxy, 1,2-dimethylbutoxy, and the like.

The term"substituted alkoxy"refers to the groups substituted alkyl-O-, substituted alkenyl-O-, substituted cycloalkyl-O-, substituted cycloalkenyl-O-, and substituted alkynyl-0- where substituted alkyl, substituted alkenyl, substituted cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkenyl and substituted alkynyl are as defined herein.

The term"alkylalkoxy"refers to the groups-alkylene-O-alkyl, alkylene-O-substituted alkyl, substituted alkylene-O-alkyl and substituted alkylene-O-substituted alkyl wherein alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkylene and substituted alkylene are as defined herein. Examples of such groups are methylenemethoxy (-CH2OCH3), ethylenemethoxy (-CH2CH2OCH3), n-propylene- iso-propoxy (-CH2CH2CH2OCH (CH3) 2), methylene-t-butoxy (-CH2-O-C (CH3) 3) and the like.

The term"alkylthioalkoxy"refers to the group-alkylene-S-alkyl, alkylene-S- substituted alkyl, substituted alkylene-S-alkyl and substituted alkylene-S-substituted alkyl wherein alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkylene and substituted alkylene are as defined herein.

Preferred alkylthioalkoxy groups are alkylene-S-alkyl and include, by way of example, methylenethiomethoxy (-CH2SCH3), ethylenethiomethoxy (-CH2CH2SCH3), n-propylene-iso- thiopropoxy (-CH2CH2CH2SCH (CH3) 2), methylene-t-thiobutoxy (-CH2SC (CH3) 3) and the like.

"Alkenyl"refers to a monoradical of a branched or unbranched unsaturated hydrocarbon preferably having from 2 to 40 carbon atoms, preferably 2-10 carbon atoms, more preferably 2-6 carbon atoms, and preferably having 1-6 double bonds. This term is further exemplified by such radicals as vinyl, prop-2-enyl, pent-3-enyl, hex-5-enyl, 5-ethyldodec-3,6-dienyl, and the like.

The term"substituted alkenyl"refers to an alkenyl group as defined above having from 1 to 5 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminoacyl, aminoacyloxy, oxyaminoacyl, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxyl, keto, thioketo, carboxyl, carboxylalkyl, thiol, thioalkoxy, substituted

thioalkoxy, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclic, aryloxy, thioaryloxy, heteroaryloxy, thioheteroaryloxy, heterocyclooxy, thioheterocyclooxy, nitro,-SO-alkyl,-SO-substituted alkyl,-SO-aryl,-SO-heteroaryl,-SO2-alkyl,-SO2-substituted alkyl,-SO2-aryl,-SO2- heteroaryl, and,-NRaRb, wherein Ra and Rb may be the same or different and are chosen from hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic.

"Alkenylene"refers to a diradical of an unsaturated hydrocarbon, preferably having from 2 to 40 carbon atoms, preferably 2-10 carbon atoms, more preferably 2-6 carbon atoms, and preferably having 1-6 double bonds. This term is further exemplified by such radicals as 1,2-ethenyl, 1,3-prop-2-enyl, 1,5-pent-3-enyl, 1,4-hex-5-enyl, 5-ethyl-1,12-dodec-3,6-dienyl, and the like.

The term"substituted alkenylene"refers to an alkenylene group as defined above having from 1 to 5 substituents, selected from the group consisting of alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminoacyl, aminoacyloxy, oxyacylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxyl, keto, thioketo, carboxyl, carboxylalkyl, thiol, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, thioaryloxy, heteroaryl, heteroaryloxy, thioheteroaryloxy, heterocyclic, heterocyclooxy, thioheterocyclooxy, nitro, and NRR'\ wherein Ra and Rb may be the same or different and are chosen from hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic.

Additionally, such substituted alkenylene groups include those where 2 substituents on the alkenylene group are fused to form one or more cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, substituted cycloalkenyl, aryl, heterocyclic or heteroaryl groups fused to the alkenylene group.

"Alkynyl"refers to a monoradical of an unsaturated hydrocarbon, preferably having from 2 to 40 carbon atoms, preferably 2-10 carbon atoms, more preferably 2-6 carbon atoms,

and preferably having 1-6 triple bonds. This term is further exemplified by such radicals as acetylenyl, prop-2-ynyl, pent-3-ynyl, hex-5-ynyl, 5-ethyldodec-3,6-diynyl, and the like.

The term"substituted alkynyl"refers to an alkynyl group as defined above having from 1 to 5 substituents, selected from the group consisting of alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminoacyl, aminoacyloxy, oxyacylamino, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxyl, keto, thioketo, carboxyl, carboxylalkyl, thiol, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, thioaryloxy, heteroaryl, heteroaryloxy, thioheteroaryloxy, heterocyclic, heterocyclooxy, thioheterocycloxy, nitro,-SO-alkyl,-SO-substituted alkyl, -SO-aryl,-SO-heteroaryl,-SO2-alkyl,-SO2-substituted alkyl,-SO2-aryl,-SO2-heteroaryl, SO2- heterocyclic, NRaRb, wherein Ra and Rb may be the same or different and are chosen from hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic.

"Alkynylene"refers to a diradical of an unsaturated hydrocarbon radical, preferably having from 2 to 40 carbon atoms, preferably 2-10 carbon atoms, more preferably 2-6 carbon atoms, and preferably having 1-6 triple bonds. This term is further exemplified by such radicals as 1,3-prop-2-ynyl, 1,5-pent-3-ynyl, 1,4-hex-5-ynyl, 5-ethyl-1,12-dodec-3,6-diynyl, and the like.

The term"acyl"refers to the groups-CHO, alkyl-C (O)-, substituted alkyl-C (O)-, cycloalkyl-C (O)-, substituted cycloalkyl-C (O)-, cycloalkenyl-C (O)-, substituted cycloalkenyl- C (O)-, aryl-C (O)-, heteroaryl-C (O)- and heterocyclic-C (O)- where alkyl, substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, substituted cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic are as defined herein.

The term"acylamino"refers to the group-C (O) NRR where each R is independently hydrogen, alkyl, substituted alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclic or where both R groups are

joined to form a heterocyclic group (e. g., morpholine) wherein alkyl, substituted alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic are as defined herein.

The term"aminoacyl"refers to the group-NRC (O) R where each R is independently hydrogen, alkyl, substituted alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclic wherein alkyl, substituted alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic are as defined herein.

The term"aminoacyloxy"refers to the group-NRC (O) OR where each R is independently hydrogen, alkyl, substituted alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclic wherein alkyl, substituted alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic are as defined herein.

The term"acyloxy"refers to the groups alkyl-C (O) O-, substituted alkyl-C (O) O-, cycloalkyl-C (O) O-, substituted cycloalkyl-C (O) O-, aryl-C (O) O-, heteroaryl-C (O) O-, and heterocyclic-C (O) O-wherein alkyl, substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, and heterocyclic are as defined herein.

The term"aryl"refers to an unsaturated aromatic carbocyclic group of from 6 to 20 carbon atoms having a single ring (e. g., phenyl) or multiple condensed (fused) rings (e. g., naphthyl or anthryl).

Unless otherwise constrained by the definition for the aryl substituent, such aryl groups can optionally be substituted with from 1 to 5 substituents selected from the group consisting of acyloxy, hydroxy, thiol, acyl, alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, substituted alkyl, substituted alkoxy, substituted alkenyl, substituted alkynyl, substituted cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkenyl, amino, aminoacyl, acylamino, alkaryl, aryl, aryloxy, azido, carboxyl, carboxylalkyl, cyano, halo, nitro, heteroaryl, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclic, heterocyclooxy, aminoacyloxy, oxyacylamino, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, thioaryloxy, thioheteroaryloxy,-SO-alkyl,-SO-substituted alkyl,-SO-aryl,

-SO-heteroaryl,-SO2-alkyl,-SO2-substituted alkyl,-SO2-aryl,-SO2-heteroaryl, trihalomethyl, NRaRb, wherein Ra and Rb may be the same or different and are chosen from hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic. Preferred aryl substituents include alkyl, alkoxy, halo, cyano, nitro, trihalomethyl, and thioalkoxy.

The term"aryloxy"refers to the group aryl-O-wherein the aryl group is as defined above including optionally substituted aryl groups as also defined above.

The term"arylene"refers to a diradical derived from aryl or substituted aryl as defined above, and is exemplified by 1,2-phenylene, 1,3-phenylene, 1,4-phenylene, 1,2-naphthylene and the like.

The term"amino"refers to the group-NH2 The term"substituted amino"refers to the group-NRR where each R is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, substituted alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic provided that both R's are not hydrogen.

The term"carboxyalkyl"refers to the group"-C (O) O-alkyl","-C (O) O-substituted alkyl","-C (O) O-cycloalkyl","-C (O) O-substituted cycloalkyl","-C (O) O-alkenyl","-C (O) O- substituted alkenyl","-C (O) O-alkynyl"and"-C (O) O-substituted alkynyl"where alkyl, substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, alkynyl and substituted alkynyl where alkynyl are as defined herein.

The term"cycloalkyl"refers to cyclic alkyl groups of from 3 to 20 carbon atoms having a single cyclic ring or multiple condensed rings. Such cycloalkyl groups include, by

way of example, single ring structures such as cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclooctyl, and the like, or multiple ring structures such as adamantanyl, and the like.

The term"substituted cycloalkyl"refers to cycloalkyl groups having from 1 to 5 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, substituted cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminoacyl, aminoacyloxy, oxyaminoacyl, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxyl, keto, thioketo, carboxyl, carboxylalkyl, thioaryloxy, thioheteroaryloxy, thioheterocyclooxy, thiol, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclic, heterocyclooxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro,-SO-alkyl,-SO-substituted alkyl,-SO-aryl,-SO- heteroaryl,-SO2-alkyl,-SO2-substituted alkyl,-SO2-aryl,-SO2-heteroaryl, and NRaRb, wherein Ra and Rb may be the same or different and are chosen from hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic.

The term"cycloalkenyl"refers to cyclic alkenyl groups of from 4 to 20 carbon atoms having a single cyclic ring or fused rings and at least one point of internal unsaturation.

Examples of suitable cycloalkenyl groups include, for instance, cyclobut-2-enyl, cyclopent-3- enyl, cyclooct-3-enyl and the like.

The term"substituted cycloalkenyl"refers to cycloalkenyl groups having from 1 to 5 substituents selected from the group consisting of alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, substituted cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminoacyl, aminoacyloxy, oxyaminoacyl, azido, cyano, halogen, hydroxyl, keto, thioketo, carboxyl, carboxylalkyl, thioaryloxy, thioheteroaryloxy, thioheterocyclooxy, thiol, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclic, heterocyclooxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro,-SO-alkyl,-SO-substituted alkyl,-SO- aryl,-SO-heteroaryl,-SO2-alkyl,-SO2-substituted alkyl,-SO2-aryl,-SO2-heteroaryl, and NR^Rb, wherein Ra and Rb may be the same or different and are chosen from hydrogen,

optionally substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic.

The term"halo"or"halogen"refers to fluoro, chloro, bromo and iodo.

"Haloalkyl"refers to alkyl as defined above substituted by 1-4 halo groups as defined above, which may be the same or different, such as 3-fluorododecyl, 12,12,12- trifluorododecyl, 2-bromooctyl,-3-bromo-6-chloroheptyl, and the like.

The term"heteroaryl"refers to an aromatic group of from 1 to 15 carbon atoms and 1 to 4 heteroatoms selected from oxygen, nitrogen and sulfur within at least one ring (if there is more than one ring).

Unless otherwise constrained by the definition for the heteroaryl substituent, such heteroaryl groups can be optionally substituted with 1 to 5 substituents selected from the group consisting of acyloxy, hydroxy, thiol, acyl, alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, substituted alkyl, substituted alkoxy, substituted alkenyl, substituted alkynyl, substituted cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkenyl, amino, aminoacyl, acylamino, alkaryl, aryl, aryloxy, azido, carboxyl, carboxylalkyl, cyano, halo, nitro, heteroaryl, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclic, heterocyclooxy, aminoacyloxy, oxyacylamino, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, thioaryloxy, thioheteroaryloxy,-SO-alkyl,-SO-substituted alkyl,-SO-aryl,-SO- heteroaryl,-SO2-alkyl,-SO2-substituted alkyl,-SO2-aryl,-SO2-heteroaryl, trihalomethyl, mono-and di-alkylamino, mono-and NRaRb, wherein Ra and Rb may be the same or different and are chosen from hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic. Preferred heteroaryls include pyridyl, pyrrolyl and furyl.

The term"heteroaryloxy"refers to the group heteroaryl-O-.

The term"heteroarylene"refers to the diradical group derived from heteroaryl or substituted heteroaryl as defined above, and is exemplified by the groups 2,6-pyridylene, 2,4- pyridiylene, 1,2-quinolinylene, 1,8-quinolinylene, 1,4-benzofuranylene, 2,5-pyridinylene, 1,3- morpholinylene, 2,5-indolenyl, and the like.

The term"heterocycle"or"heterocyclic"refers to a monoradical saturated or unsaturated group having a single ring or multiple condensed rings, from 1 to 40 carbon atoms and from 1 to 10 hetero atoms, preferably 1 to 4 heteroatoms, selected from nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, and/or oxygen within the ring.

Unless otherwise constrained by the definition for the heterocyclic substituent, such heterocyclic groups can be optionally substituted with 1 to 5, and preferably 1 to 3 substituents, selected from the group consisting of alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, substituted cycloalkenyl, acyl, acylamino, acyloxy, amino, aminoacyl, aminoacyloxy, oxyaminoacyl, cyano, halogen, hydroxyl, keto, thioketo, carboxyl, carboxylalkyl, thioaryloxy, thioheteroaryloxy, thioheterocyclooxy, thiol, thioalkoxy, substituted thioalkoxy, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, heteroaryloxy, heterocyclic, heterocyclooxy, hydroxyamino, alkoxyamino, nitro,-SO-alkyl,-SO-substituted alkyl,-SO-aryl,-SO- heteroaryl,-SO2-alkyl,-SO2-substituted alkyl,-SO2-aryl,-SO2-heteroaryl, and NRaRb, wherein Ra and Rb may be the same or different and are chosen from hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic. Such heterocyclic groups can have a single ring or multiple condensed rings.

Examples of nitrogen heterocycles and heteroaryls include, but are not limited to, pyrrole, imidazole, pyrazole, pyridine, pyrazine, pyrimidine, pyridazine, indolizine, isoindole, indole, indazole, purine, quinolizine, isoquinoline, quinoline, phthalazine, naphthylpyridine, quinoxaline, quinazoline, cinnoline, pteridine, carbazole, carboline, phenanthridine, acridine, phenanthroline, isothiazole, phenazine, isoxazole, phenoxazine, phenothiazine, imidazolidine,

imidazoline, piperidine, piperazine, indoline, morpholino, piperidinyl, tetrahydrofuranyl, and the like as well as N-alkoxy-nitrogen containing heterocycles.

A preferred class of heterocyclics include"crown compounds"which refers to a specific class of heterocyclic compounds having one or more repeating units of the formula [-(CH2-) mY-] where m is equal to or greater than 2, and Y at each separate occurrence can be O, N, S or P. Examples of crown compounds include, by way of example only, [-(CH2) 3- NH-] 3, [-((CH2) 2-O) 4-((CH2) 2-NH) 2] and the like. Typically such crown compounds can have from 4 to 10 heteroatoms and 8 to 40 carbon atoms.

The term"heterocyclooxy"refers to the group heterocyclic-O-.

The term"thioheterocyclooxy"refers to the group heterocyclic-S-.

The term"heterocyclene"refers to the diradical group derived from a heterocycle as defined herein, and is exemplified by the groups 2,6-morpholino, 2,5-morpholino and the like.

The term"oxyacylamino"refers to the group-OC (O) NRR where each R is independently hydrogen, alkyl, substituted alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclic wherein alkyl, substituted alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic are as defined herein.

The term"thiol"refers to the group-SH.

The term"thioalkoxy"refers to the group-S-alkyl.

The term"substituted thioalkoxy"refers to the group-S-substituted alkyl.

The term"thioaryloxy"refers to the group aryl-S-wherein the aryl group is as defined above including optionally substituted aryl groups also defined above.

The term"thioheteroaryloxy"refers to the group heteroaryl-S-wherein the heteroaryl group is as defined above including optionally substituted aryl groups as also defined above.

As to any of the above groups which contain one or more substituents, it is understood, of course, that such groups do not contain any substitution or substitution patterns which are sterically impractical and/or synthetically non-feasible. In addition, the compounds of this invention include all stereochemical isomers arising from the substitution of these compounds.

"Alkyl optionally interrupted by 1-5 atoms chosen from O, S, or N"refers to alkyl as defined above in which the carbon chain is interrupted by O, S, or N. Within the scope are ethers, sulfides, and amines, for example 1-methoxydecyl, 1-pentyloxynonane, 1- (2- isopropoxyethoxy)-4-methylnonane, 1- (2-ethoxyethoxy) dodecyl, 2- (t-butoxy) heptyl, 1-pentylsulfanylnonane, nonylpentylamine, and the like.

"Heteroarylalkyl"refers to heteroaryl as defined above linked to alkyl as defined above, for example pyrid-2-ylmethyl, 8-quinolinylpropyl, and the like.

"Optional"or"optionally"means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances in which it does not. For example, optionally substituted alkyl means that alkyl may or may not be substituted by those groups enumerated in the definition of substituted alkyl.

The term"pharmaceutically acceptable salt"refers to salts which retain the biological effectiveness and properties of the multibinding compounds of this invention and which are

not biologically or otherwise undesirable. In many cases, the multibinding compounds of this invention are capable of forming acid and/or base salts by virtue of the presence of amino and/or carboxyl groups or groups similar thereto.

Pharmaceutically acceptable base addition salts can be prepared from inorganic and organic bases. Salts derived from inorganic bases, include by way of example only, sodium, potassium, lithium, ammonium, calcium and magnesium salts. Salts derived from organic bases include, but are not limited to, salts of primary, secondary and tertiary amines, such as alkyl amines, dialkyl amines, trialkyl amines, substituted alkyl amines, di (substituted alkyl) amines, tri (substituted alkyl) amines, alkenyl amines, dialkenyl amines, trialkenyl amines, substituted alkenyl amines, di (substituted alkenyl) amines, tri (substituted alkenyl) amines, cycloalkyl amines, di (cycloalkyl) amines, tri (cycloalkyl) amines, substituted cycloalkyl amines, disubstituted cycloalkyl amine, trisubstituted cycloalkyl amines, cycloalkenyl amines, di (cycloalkenyl) amines, tri (cycloalkenyl) amines, substituted cycloalkenyl amines, disubstituted cycloalkenyl amine, trisubstituted cycloalkenyl amines, aryl amines, diaryl amines, triaryl amines, heteroaryl amines, diheteroaryl amines, triheteroaryl amines, heterocyclic amines, diheterocyclic amines, triheterocyclic amines, mixed di-and tri-amines where at least two of the substituents on the amine are different and are selected from the group consisting of alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, substituted cycloalkenyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclic, and the like. Also included are amines where the two or three substituents, together with the amino nitrogen, form a heterocyclic or heteroaryl group.

Examples of suitable amines include, by way of example only, isopropylamine, trimethyl amine, diethyl amine, tri (iso-propyl) amine, tri (n-propyl) amine, ethanolamine, 2-dimethylaminoethanol, tromethamine, lysine, arginine, histidine, caffeine, procaine, hydrabamine, choline, betaine, ethylenediamine, glucosamine, N-alkylglucamines, theobromine, purines, piperazine, piperidine, morpholine, N-ethylpiperidine, and the like. It should also be understood that other carboxylic acid derivatives would be useful in the

practice of this invention, for example, carboxylic acid amides, including carboxamides, lower alkyi carboxamides, diallcyl carboxamides, and the like.

Pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts may be prepared from inorganic and organic acids. Salts derived from inorganic acids include hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, and the like. Salts derived from organic acids include acetic acid, propionic acid, glycolic acid, pyruvic acid, oxalic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, cinnamic acid, mandelic acid, methanesulfonic acid, ethanesulfonic acid, p-toluene-sulfonic acid, salicylic acid, and the like.

The term"protecting group"or"blocking group"refers to any group which when bound to one or more hydroxyl, thiol, amino or carboxyl groups of the compounds prevents reactions from occurring at these groups and which protecting group can be removed by conventional chemical or enzymatic steps to reestablish the hydroxyl, thiol, amino or carboxyl group. See, generally, T. W. Greene & P. G. M. Wuts, Protective Groups in Organic Synthesis, 2nd Ed., 1991, John Wiley and Sons, N. Y.

The particular removable blocking group employed is not critical and preferred removable hydroxyl blocking groups include conventional substituents such as allyl, benzyl, acetyl, chloroacetyl, thiobenzyl, benzylidine, phenacyl, t-butyl-diphenylsilyl and any other group that can be introduced chemically onto a hydroxyl functionality and later selectively removed either by chemical or enzymatic methods in mild conditions compatible with the nature of the product.

Preferred removable amino blocking groups include conventional substituents such as t-butyoxycarbonyl (t-BOC), benzyloxycarbonyl (CBZ), fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl (FMOC), allyloxycarbonyl (ALOC) and the like, which can be removed by conventional conditions compatible with the nature of the product.

Preferred carboxyl protecting groups include esters such as methyl, ethyl, propyl, t-butyl etc. which can be removed by mild hydrolysis conditions compatible with the nature of the product.

As used herein, the terms"inert organic solvent"or"inert solvent"mean a solvent inert under the conditions of the reaction being described in conjunction therewith [including, for example, benzene, toluene, acetonitrile, tetrahydrofuran ("THF"), dimethylformamide ("DMF"), chloroform ("CHC13..), methylene chloride (or dichloromethane or"CH2C12"), diethyl ether, ethyl acetate, acetone, methylethyl ketone, methanol, ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, tert-butanol, dioxane, pyridine, and the like]. Unless specified to the contrary, the solvents used in the reactions of the present invention are inert solvents.

The term"leukotriene receptor"refers to proteins that function to bind leukotrienes.

Leukotriene receptors which bind peptidyl leukotrienes are preferred. Those which bind leukotriene D4 are particularly targeted.

"Ligand"as used herein denotes a compound that is a binding partner for a leukotriene receptor, and is bound thereto, for example, by complementarity. The specific region or regions of the ligand molecule that is recognized by the ligand binding site of a leukotriene receptor is designated as the"ligand domain". A ligand may be either capable of binding to a receptor by itself, or may require the presence of one or more non-ligand components for binding (e. g., ions, a lipid molecule, a solvent molecule, and the like).

Ligands useful in this invention comprise leukotriene receptor inhibitors, particularly leukotriene D4 antagonists. Such compounds include, but are not limited to, heterodiol acid leukotriene antagonists', quinoline leukotriene antagonists 2, heterocyclic amide derivatives3, FPL-557124,L-6499234,L-6480514,RG-59014, sulukast4,CGP4515A4,SKF1062034,Bay-x71954,tomelukast4,16,pob ilukast4,16, ritolukast4, SR-26404, RG-12254, MK-571-"' and its enantiomers7, verlukast41216,

montelukast48 l2 l6, pranlukast4 l6, ablukast4,1,6-disubstituted indole and indazoles', 1,3,6-trisubstituted indoles6, fluorinated 3-benzyl-5-indolecarboxamides9, bicyclic and monocyclic cyclopentylurethane and cyclopentylacetamide N-arylsulfonyl amides14, LY- 648905716, styrylquinolones18 and carboxylated chalcones19. See Table 1 for structures of various leukotriene receptor ligands. Preferred ligands are non-peptidyl, although peptidomimetics may be used. One preferred feature is that the rings of the receptor ligand remain planar.

While it is contemplated that many leukotriene receptor ligands that are currently known can be used in the preparation of multibinding compounds of this invention (Table 1), it should be understood that portions of the ligand structure that are not essential for molecular recognition and binding activity (i. e., that are not part of the ligand domain) may be varied substantially, replaced with unrelated structures and, in some cases, omitted entirely without affecting the binding interaction. Accordingly, it should be understood that the term "ligand"is not intended to be limited to compounds known to be useful as leukotriene receptor-binding compounds (e. g., known drugs), in that ligands that exhibit marginal activity or lack useful activity as monomers can be highly active as multibinding compounds, because of the biological benefit conferred by multivalency. The primary requirement for a ligand as defined herein is that it has a ligand domain, as defined above, which is available for binding and inhibiting the activity of a leukotriene receptor.

For purposes of the present invention, the term"ligand"or"ligands"is intended to include the racemic ligands as well as the individual stereoisomers of the ligands, including pure enantiomers and non-racemic mixtures thereof. The scope of the invention as described and claimed encompasses the racemic forms of the ligands as well as the individual enantiomers and non-racemic mixtures thereof.

The term"ligand binding site"as used herein denotes a site on a leukotriene receptor that recognizes a ligand domain and provides a binding partner for the ligand. The ligand

binding site may be defined by monomeric or multimeric structures. This interaction may be capable of producing a unique biological effect, for example agonism, antagonism, modulation, or may maintain an ongoing biological event, and the like.

It should be recognized that the ligand binding sites of leukotriene receptors that participate in biological multivalent binding interactions are constrained to varying degrees by their intra-and intermolecular associations. For example, leukotriene receptor ligand binding sites may be covalently joined in a single structure, noncovalently associated in one or more multimeric structures, embedded in a membrane or biopolymer matrix, and so on, and therefore have less translational and rotational freedom than if the same sites were present as monomers in solution.

The terms"agonism"and"antagonism"are well known in the art. As used herein, the term"agonist"refers to a ligand that when bound to a leukotriene receptor stimulates its activity. The term"antagonist"refers to a ligand that when bound to a leukotriene receptor inhibits its activity. Receptor block or activation may result from allosteric effects of ligand binding to the receptor rather than occupancy of the receptor. These allosteric effects may produce changes in protein conformation that affect leukotriene binding sites.

The term"modulatory effect"is intended to refer to the ability of a ligand to change the activity of a leukotriene receptor through binding to the receptor.

"Multibinding agent"or"multibinding compound"refers herein to a compound that has from 2 to 10 leukotriene receptor ligands as defined herein (which may be the same or different) covalently bound to one or more linkers (which may be the same or different), and is capable of multivalency, as defined below.

A multibinding compound provides an improved biologic and/or therapeutic effect compared to that of the same number of unlinked ligands available for binding to the ligand

binding sites on a leukotriene receptor or receptors. Examples of improved"biologic and/or therapeutic effect"include increased ligand-receptor binding interactions (e. g., increased affinity, increased ability to elicit a functional change in the target, improved kinetics), increased selectivity for the target, increased potency, increased efficacy, decreased toxicity, increased therapeutic index, improved duration of action, improved bioavailability, improved pharmacokinetics, improved activity spectrum, and the like. The multibinding compounds of this invention will exhibit at least one, and preferably more than one, of the above-mentioned effects.

"Univalency"as used herein refers to a single binding interaction between one ligand with one ligand binding site as defined herein. It should be noted that a compound having multiple copies of a ligand (or ligands) exhibits univalency when only one ligand of that compound interacts with a ligand binding site. Examples of univalent interactions are depicted below. univalent interaction "Multivalency"as used herein refers to the concurrent binding of from 2 to 10 linked ligands, which may be the same or different, and two or more corresponding ligand binding sites, which may be the same or different. An example of trivalent binding is depicted below for illustrative purposes. trivalent interaction

It should be understood that not all compounds that contain multiple copies of a ligand attached to a linker necessarily exhibit the phenomena of multivalency, i. e., that the biologic and/or therapeutic effect of the multibinding agent is greater than that of the same number of unlinked ligands made available for binding to the ligand binding sites. For multivalency to occur, the ligand domains of the ligands that are linked together must be presented to their cognate ligand binding sites by the linker or linkers in a specific manner in order to bring about the desired ligand-orienting result, and thus produce a multibinding interaction.

The term"library"refers to at least 3, preferably from 1 o2 to 109 and more preferably from 102 to 104 multimeric compounds. Preferably, these compounds are prepared as a multiplicity of compounds in a single solution or reaction mixture which permits facile synthesis thereof. In one embodiment, the library of multimeric compounds can be directly assayed for multibinding properties. In another embodiment, each member of the library of multimeric compounds is first isolated and, optionally, characterized. This member is then assayed for multibinding properties.

The term"collection"refers to a set of multimeric compounds which are prepared either sequentially or concurrently (e. g., combinatorially). The collection comprises at least 2 members ; preferably from 2 to 109 members and still more preferably from 10 to 104 members.

The term"multimeric compound"refers to compounds comprising from 2 to 10 ligands covalently connected through at least one linker which compounds may or may not possess multibinding properties (as defined herein).

The term"pseudohalide"refers to functional groups which react in displacement reactions in a manner similar to a halogen. Such functional groups include, by way of example, mesyl, tosyl, azido and cyano groups.

The term"linker", identified where appropriate by the symbol X, refers to a group or groups that covalently links from 2 to 10 ligands (as defined above) in a manner that provides a compound capable of multivalency. The linker is a ligand-orienting entity that permits attachment of multiple copies of a ligand (which may be the same or different) thereto.

The term"linker"includes everything that is not considered to be part of the ligand, e. g., ancillary groups such as solubilizing groups, lipophilic groups, groups that alter pharmacodynamics or pharmacokinetics, groups that modify the diffusability of the multibinding compound, spacers that attach the ligand to the linker, groups that aid the ligand-orienting function of the linker, for example, by imparting flexibility or rigidity to the linker as a whole, or to a portion thereof, and so on. The term"linker"does not, however, cover solid inert supports such as beads, glass particles, rods, and the like, but it is to be understood that the multibinding compounds of this invention can be attached to a solid support if desired, for example, for use in separation and purification processes and for similar applications.

The extent to which the previously discussed enhanced activity of multibinding compounds is realized in this invention depends upon the efficiency with which the linker or linkers that joins the ligands presents them to their array of ligand binding sites. Beyond presenting these ligands for multivalent interactions with ligand binding sites, the linker spatially constrains these interactions to occur within dimensions defined by the linker.

The linkers used in this invention are selected to allow multivalent binding of ligands to any desired ligand binding site of a leukotriene receptor, whether such sites are located within the cell membrane, on the surface of the cell membrane, extracellularly, intracellularly, or at any intermediate position thereof. The preferred linker length will vary depending on the distance between adjacent ligand binding sites, and the geometry, flexibility and composition of the linker. The length of the linker will preferably be in the range of about 2A

to about ICOA, more preferably from about 2A to about 5 OA and even more preferably from about 5A to about 20A.

The ligands are covalently attached to the linker or linkers using conventional chemical techniques. The reaction chemistries resulting in such linkage are well known in the art and involve the use of reactive functional groups present on the linker and ligand.

Preferably, the reactive functional groups on the linker are selected relative to the functional groups available on the ligand for coupling, or which can be introduced onto the ligand for this purpose. Again, such reactive functional groups are well known in the art. For example, reaction between a carboxylic acid of either the linker or the ligand and a primary or secondary amine of the ligand or the linker in the presence of suitable well-known activating agents results in formation of an amide bond covalently linking the ligand to the linker; reaction between an amine group of either the linker or the ligand and a sulfonyl halide of the ligand or the linker results in formation of a sulfonamide bond covalently linking the ligand to the linker; and reaction between an alcohol or phenol group of either the linker or the ligand and an alkyl or aryl halide of the ligand or the linker results in formation of an ether bond covalently linking the ligand to the linker. The table below and Figure 6 illustrate numerous reactive functional groups and the resulting bonds formed by reaction therebetween. Where functional groups are lacking, they can be created by suitable chemistries that are described in standard organic chemistry texts such as J. March, Advanced Organic Chemistry, 4* Ed., (Wiley-Interscience, N. Y., 1992).

Complementary Binding Chemistries

First Reactive Group Second Reactive Group Linkage hydroxyl isocyanate urethane amineepoxidep-hydroxyamine sulfonylhalide amine sulfonamide carboxyl amine amide hydroxyl alkyl/aryl halide ether amine alkyl halide substituted amine The linker is attached to the ligand at a position that retains ligand domain-ligand binding site interaction and specifically which permits the ligand domain of the ligand to orient itself to bind to the ligand binding site. Such positions and synthetic protocols for linkage are well known in the art. The term linker embraces everything that is not considered to be part of the ligand.

The relative orientation in which the ligand domains are displayed depends both on the particular point or points of attachment of the ligands to the linker, and on the framework geometry. Both the multibinding compounds and the multimeric compounds of the present invention include all stereoisomeric forms and mixtures thereof. The determination of where acceptable substitutions can be made on a ligand is typically based on prior knowledge of structure-activity relationships of the ligand and/or congeners and/or structural information about ligand-receptor complexes (e. g., X-ray crystallography, NMR, and the like). Such positions and synthetic protocols for linkage are well known in the art and can be determined by those with ordinary skill in the art (see, e. g., METHODS OF PREPARATION, Examples 1-4 and Figures 8 to 11. Following attachment of a ligand to the linker or linkers, or to a significant portion thereof (e. g., 2-10 atoms of linker), the linker-ligand conjugate may

be tested for retention of activity in a relevant assay system (see Utilitv and Testing below for representative assays).

At present, it is preferred that the multibinding compound is a bivalent compound in which two ligands are covalently linked, or a trivalent compound, in which three ligands are covalently linked. Linker design is further discussed under METHODS OF PREPARATION.

"Potency"as used herein refers to the minimum concentration at which a ligand is able to achieve a desirable biological or therapeutic effect. The potency of a ligand is typically proportional to its affinity for its receptor. In some cases, the potency may be non- linearly correlated with its affinity. In comparing the potency of two drugs, e. g., a multibinding agent and the aggregate of its unlinked ligand, the dose-response curve of each is determined under identical test conditions (e. g., in an in vitro or in vivo assay, in an appropriate animal model (such as a human patient)). The finding that the multibinding agent produces an equivalent biologic or therapeutic effect at a lower concentration than the aggregate unlinked ligand (e. g., on a per weight, per mole or per ligand basis) is indicative of enhanced potency.

"Selectivity"or"specificity"is a measure of the binding preferences of a ligand for different receptors. The selectivity of a ligand with respect to its target receptor relative to another receptor is given by the ratio of the respective values ouf yod (i. e., the dissociation constants for each ligand-receptor complex) or, in cases where a biological effect is observed below the Kd, the ratio of the respective EC50s or IC50s (i. e., the concentrations that produce 50% of the maximum response for the ligand interacting with the two distinct receptors).

The term"treatment"refers to any treatment of a disease or condition in a mammal, particularly a human, and includes:

(i) preventing the disease or condition from occurring in a subject which may be predisposed to the condition but has not yet been diagnosed with the condition and, accordingly, the treatment constitutes prophylactic treatment for the pathologic condition; (ii) inhibiting the disease or condition, i. e., arresting its development; (iii) relieving the disease or condition, i. e., causing regression of the disease or condition; or (iv) relieving the symptoms resulting from the disease or condition without addressing the underlying disease or condition, e. g., relieving symptoms of angina pectoris and other conditions of ischemia but not an underlying cause such as, for example, atherosclerotic disease or hypertension.

The phrase"disease or condition which is modulated by treatment with a multibinding leukotriene receptor ligand"covers all disease states and/or conditions that are generally acknowledged in the art to be usefully treated with a ligand for a leukotriene receptor in general, especially leukotriene D4 receptors, and those disease states and/or conditions that have been found to be usefully treated by a specific multibinding compound of our invention, i. e., the compounds of Formula I. Such disease states include, by way of example only, asthma, allergy, and the like.

The term"therapeutically effective amount"refers to that amount of multibinding compound that is sufficient to effect treatment, as defined above, when administered to a mammal in need of such treatment. The therapeutically effective amount will vary depending upon the subject and disease condition being treated, the weight and age of the subject, the severity of the disease condition, the manner of administration and the like, which can readily be determined by one of ordinary skill in the art.

The term"pharmaceutically acceptable excipient"is intended to include vehicles and carriers capable of being coadministered with a multibinding compound to facilitate the performance of its intended function. The use of such media for pharmaceutically active

substances is well known in the art. Examples of such vehicles and carriers include solutions, solvents, dispersion media, delay agents, emulsions and the like. Any other conventional carrier suitable for use with the multibinding compounds also falls within the scope of the present invention.

METHODS OF PREPARATION Linkers The linker or linkers, when covalently attached to multiple copies of the ligands, provides a biocompatible, substantially non-immunogenic multibinding compound. The biological activity of the multibinding leukotriene receptor compound is highly sensitive to the geometry, composition, size, length, flexibility or rigidity, the presence or absence of anionic or cationic charge, the relative hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity, and similar properties of the linker. Accordingly, the linker is preferably chosen to maximize the biological activity of the compound. The linker may be biologically"neutral,"i. e., not itself contribute any additional biological activity to the multibinding compound, or it may be chosen to further enhance the biological activity of the compound. In general, the linker may be chosen from any organic molecule construct that orients two or more ligands for binding to the receptors to permit multivalency. In this regard, the linker can be considered as a"framework"on which the ligands are arranged in order to bring about the desired ligand-orienting result, and thus produce a multibinding compound.

For example, different orientations of ligands can be achieved by varying the geometry of the framework (linker) by use of mono-or polycyclic groups, such as aryl and/or heteroaryl groups, or structures incorporating one or more carbon-carbon multiple bonds (alkenyl, alkenylene, alkynyl or alkynylene groups). The optimal geometry and composition of frameworks (linkers) used in the multibinding compounds of this invention are based upon the properties of their intended receptors. For example, it is preferred to use rigid cyclic groups (e. g., aryl, heteroaryl), or non-rigid cyclic groups (e. g., cycloalkyl or crown-groups) to

reduce conformational entropy when such may be necessary to achieve energetically coupled binding.

Different hydrophobic/hydrophilic characteristics of the linker as well as the presence or absence of charged moieties can readily be controlled by the skilled artisan. For example, the hydrophobic nature of a linker derived from hexamethylene diamine (H2N (CH2) 6NH2) or related polyamines can be modified to be substantially more hydrophilic by replacing the alkylene group with a poly (oxyalkylene) group such as found in the commercially available "Jeffamines" (class of surfactants).

Different frameworks can be designed to provide preferred orientations of the ligands.

The identification of an appropriate framework geometry for ligand domain presentation is an important first step in the construction of a multi binding agent with enhanced activity.

Systematic spatial searching strategies can be used to aid in the identification of preferred frameworks through an iterative process. Figure 2 illustrates a useful strategy for determining an optimal framework display orientation for ligand domains and can be used for preparing the bivalent compounds of this invention. Various alternative strategies known to those skilled in the art of molecular design can be substituted for the one described here.

As shown in Figure 2, the ligands (shown as filled circles) are attached to a central core structure such as phenyldiacetylene (Panel A) or cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid (Panel B). The ligands are spaced apart from the core by an attaching moiety of variable lengths m and n. If the ligand possesses multiple attachment sites (see discussion below), the orientation of the ligand on the attaching moiety may be varied as well. The positions of the display vectors around the central core structures are varied, thereby generating a collection of compounds. Assay of each of the individual compounds of a collection generated as described will lead to a subset of compounds with the desired enhanced activities (e. g., potency, selectivity). The analysis of this subset using a technique such as Ensemble Molecular Dynamics will suggest a framework orientation that favors the properties desired.

The process may require the use of multiple copies of the same central core structure or combinations of different types of display cores. It is to be noted that core structures other than those shown here can be used for determining the optimal framework display orientation of the ligands. The above-described technique can be extended to trivalent compounds and compounds of higher-order valency.

A wide variety of linkers is commercially available (Chem Sources USA and Chem Sources International; the ACD electronic database; and Chemical Abstracts). Many of the linkers that are suitable for use in this invention fall into this category. Others can be readily synthesized by methods known in the art, and as described below. Examples of linkers include aliphatic moieties, aromatic moieties, steroidal moieties, peptides, and the like.

Specific examples are peptides or polyamides, hydrocarbons, aromatics, heterocyclics, ethers, lipids, cationic or anionic groups, or a combination thereof.

Examples are given below and in Figure 3, but it should be understood that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. For example, properties of the linker can be modified by the addition or insertion of ancillary groups into the linker, for example, to change the solubility of the multibinding compound (in water, fats, lipids, biological fluids, etc.), hydrophobicity, hydrophilicity, linker flexibility, antigenicity, stability, and the like. For example, the introduction of one or more poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG) groups onto the linker enhances the hydrophilicity and water solubility of the multibinding compound, increases both molecular weight and molecular size and, depending on the nature of the unPEGylated linker, may increase the in vivo retention time. Further, PEG may decrease antigenicity and potentially enhances the overall rigidity of the linker.

Ancillary groups that enhance the water solubility/hydrophilicity of the linker, and accordingly, the resulting multibinding compounds, are useful in practicing this invention.

Thus, it is within the scope of the present invention to use ancillary groups such as, for

example, small repeating units of ethylene glycols, alcohols, polyols, (e. g., glycerin, glycerol propoxylate, saccharides, including mono-, oligosaccharides, etc.) carboxylates (e. g., small repeating units of glutamic acid, acrylic acid, etc.), amines (e. g., tetraethylenepentamine), and the like to enhance the water solubility and/or hydrophilicity of the multibinding compounds of this invention. In preferred embodiments, the ancillary group used to improve water solubility/hydrophilicity will be a polyether. In particularly preferred embodiments, the ancillary group will contain a small number of repeating ethylene oxide (-CH2CH2O-) units.

The incorporation of lipophilic ancillary groups within the structure of the linker to enhance the lipophilicity and/or hydrophobicity of the compounds of Formula I is also within the scope of this invention. Lipophilic groups useful with the linkers of this invention include, but are not limited to, lower alkyl, aromatic groups and polycyclic aromatic groups.

The aromatic groups may be either unsubstituted or substituted with other groups, but are at least substituted with a group which allows their covalent attachment to the linker. As used herein the term"aromatic groups"incorporates both aromatic hydrocarbons and heterocyclic aromatics. Other lipophilic groups useful with the linkers of this invention include fatty acid derivatives which may or may not form micelles in aqueous medium and other specific lipophilic groups which modulate interactions between the multibinding compound and biological membranes.

Also within the scope of this invention is the use of ancillary groups which result in the compound of Formula I being incorporated into a vesicle, such as a liposome, or a micelle. The term"lipid"refers to any fatty acid derivative that is capable of forming a bilayer or micelle such that a hydrophobic portion of the lipid material orients toward the bilayer while a hydrophilic portion orients toward the aqueous phase. Hydrophilic characteristics derive from the presence of phosphato, carboxylic, sulfato, amino, sulfhydryl, nitro and other like groups well known in the art. Hydrophobicity could be conferred by the inclusion of groups that include, but are not limited to, long chain saturated and unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbon groups of up to 20 carbon atoms and such groups substituted by one or

more aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, and/or heterocyclic group (s). Preferred lipids are phosphoglycerides and sphingolipids, representative examples of which include phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidic acid, palmitoyleoyl phosphatidylcholine, lysophosphatidylcholine, lysophosphatidyl-ethanolamine, dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine, dioleoylphosphatidyl- choline, distearoyl-phosphatidylcholine and dilinoleoylphosphatidylcholine. Other compounds lacking phosphorus, such as sphingolipid and glycosphingolipid families, are also within the group designated as lipid. Additionally, the amphipathic lipids described above may be mixed with other lipids including triglycerides and sterols.

The flexibility of the linker can be manipulated by the inclusion of ancillary groups which are bulky and/or rigid. The presence of bulky or rigid groups can hinder free rotation about bonds in the linker, or bonds between the linker and the ancillary group (s), or bonds between the linker and the functional groups. Rigid groups can include, for example, those groups whose conformational freedom is restrained by the presence of rings and/or 7r-bonds, for example, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic groups. Other groups which can impart rigidity include polypeptide groups such as oligo-or polyproline chains.

Rigidity can also be imparted electrostatically. Thus, if the ancillary groups are either positively or negatively charged, the similarly charged ancillary groups will force the linker into a configuration affording the maximum distance between each of the like charges. The energetic cost of bringing the like-charged groups closer to each other, which is inversely related to the square of the distance between the groups, will tend to hold the linker in a configuration that maintains the separation between the like-charged ancillary groups.

Further, ancillary groups bearing opposite charges will tend to be attracted to their oppositely charged counterparts and potentially may enter into both inter-and intramolecular ionic bonds. This non-covalent mechanism will tend to hold the linker in a conformation which allows bonding between the oppositely charged groups. The addition of ancillary groups which are charged, or alternatively, protected groups that bear a latent charge which is

unmasked, following addition to the linker, by deprotection, a change in pH, oxidation, reduction or other mechanisms known to those skilled in the art, is within the scope of this invention.

Bulky groups can include, for example, large atoms, ions (e. g., iodine, sulfur, metal ions, etc.) or groups containing large atoms, polycyclic groups, including aromatic groups, non-aromatic groups and structures incorporating one or more carbon-carbon s-bonds (i. e., alkenes and alkynes). Bulky groups can also include oligomers and polymers which are branched-or straight-chain species. Species that are branched are expected to increase the rigidity of the structure more per unit molecular weight gain than are straight-chain species.

In preferred embodiments, rigidity (entropic control) is imparted by the presence of alicyclic (e. g., cycloalkyl), aromatic and heterocyclic groups. In other preferred embodiments, this comprises one or more six-membered rings. In still further preferred embodiments, the ring is an aryl group such as, for example, phenyl or naphthyl, or a macrocyclic ring such as, for example, a crown compound.

In view of the above, it is apparent that the appropriate selection of a linker group providing suitable orientation, entropy and physico-chemical properties is well within the skill of the art.

Eliminating or reducing antigenicity of the multibinding compounds described herein is also within the scope of this invention. In certain cases, the antigenicity of a multibinding compound may be eliminated or reduced by use of groups such as, for example, poly (ethylene glycol).

The Compounds of Formula I As explained above, the multibinding compounds described herein comprise 2-10 ligands attached covalently to a linker that links the ligands in a manner that allows their

multivalent binding to ligand binding sites of leukotriene receptors. The linker spatially constrains these interactions to occur within dimensions defined by the linker. This and other factors increases the biologic and/or therapeutic effect of the multibinding compound as compared to the same number of ligands used in monobinding form.

The compounds of this invention are preferably represented by the empirical formula (L) p (X) q where L, X, p and q are as defined above. This is intended to include the several ways in which the ligands can be linked together in order to achieve the objective of multivalency, and a more detailed explanation is provided below.

As noted previously, the linker may be considered as a framework to which ligands are attached. Thus, it should be recognized that the ligands can be attached at any suitable position on this framework, for example, at the termini of a linear chain or at any intermediate position thereof.

The simplest and most preferred multibinding compound is a bivalent compound which can be represented as L-X-L, where L is a ligand and is the same or different and X is the linker. A trivalent compound could also be represented in a linear fashion, i. e., as a sequence of repeated units L-X-L-X-L, in which L is a ligand and is the same or different at each occurrence, as is X. However, a trivalent compound can also comprise three ligands attached to a central core, and thus be represented as (L) 3X, where the linker X could include, for example, an aryl or cycloalkyl group. Tetravalent compounds can be represented in a linear array: L-X-L-X-L-X-L, or a branched array:

i. e., a branched construct analogous to the isomers of butane (n-butyl, iso-butyl, sec-butyl, and t-butyl). Alternatively, it could be represented as an aryl or cycloalkyl derivative as described above with four (4) ligands attached to the core linker.

The same considerations apply to higher multibinding compounds of this invention containing from 5-10 ligands. However, for multibinding agents attached to a central linker such as an aryl, cycloalkyl or heterocyclyl group, or a crown compound, there is a self-evident constraint that there must be sufficient attachment sites on the linker to accommodate the number of ligands present; for example, a benzene ring could not accommodate more than 6 ligands, whereas a multi-ring linker (e. g., biphenyl) could accommodate a larger number of ligands.

The formula (L) p (X) q is also intended to represent a cyclic compound of formula (-L- X-) n, where n is 2-10.

All of the above variations are intended to be within the scope of the invention defined by the formula (L) (X). Examples of bivalent and higher-order valency compounds of this invention are provided in Figures 4A to 4D.

With the foregoing in mind, a preferred linker may be represented by the following formula: -X'-Z-(Y'-Z)m-Y"-Z-X'- in which: m is an integer of from 0 to 20; X'at each separate occurrence is-O-,-S-,-S (O)-,- S (O) 2-,-NR-,-N+ R R'-,-C (O)-,-C (O) O-,-C (O) NH-,-C (S),-C (S) O-,-C (S) NH- or a covalent bond, where R and R at each separate occurrence are as defined below for R'and R" ; Z is at each separate occurrence selected from alkylene, substituted alkylene, alkylalkoxy, cycloalkylene, substituted cycloalkylene, alkenylene, substituted alkenylene, alkynylene, substituted alkynylene, cycloalkenylene, substituted alkenylene, arylene, substituted arylene, heteroarylene, heterocyclene, substituted heterocyclene, crown compounds, or a covalent bond; Y'and Y"at each separate occurrence are selected from the group consisting of

-S-S-or a covalent bond ; in which: n is 0,1 or 2; and R'and R"at each separate occurrence re selected from hydrogen, alkyl, substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, alkynyl, substituted alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl or heterocyclic.

Additionally, the linker moiety can be optionally substituted at any atom therein by one or more alkyl, substituted alkyl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, alkynyl, substituted alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl and heterocyclic group.

As indicated above, the simplest (and preferred) construct is a bivalent compound which can be represented as L-X-L, where L is a leukotriene receptor ligand that is the same or different at each occurrence, and X is the linker. Accordingly, examples of the preparation of a bivalent ligand are given below as an illustration of the manner in which multibinding compounds of Formula I are obtained.

The reaction schemes that follow illustrate preferred linking strategies for linking zafirlukast and montelukast. Both of these compounds are antagonists for cysteinal leukotriene receptors. These strategies are intended to apply as well to any leukotriene receptor ligand that includes, or can be functionalized with groups compatible with the chosen linker. Examples of ligands are shown in Table I.

As was previously discussed, the linker or linkers can be attached to different positions on the ligand molecule to achieve different orientations of the ligand domains and thereby facilitate multivalency. For example, the positions that are potentially available for linking zafirlukast and montelukast are indicated by arrows in the structure shown in Figures SA and 5B. Representative multivalomers using these positions are shown in Figures 7A and 7B.

Certain leukotriene receptor ligands may be chiral and exhibit stereoselectivity. The most active enantiomers are preferably used as ligands in the multibinding compounds of this invention. The chiral resolution of enantiomers is accomplished by well known procedures that result in the formation of diastereomeric derivatives or salts, followed by conventional separation by chromatographic procedures or by fractional crystallization (see, e. g., Bossert, et al., Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 20: 762-769 (1981) and U. S. Patent No. 5,571,827 and references cited therein). Single stereoisomers may also be obtained by stereoselective synthesis.

The ligands are covalently attached to the linker using conventional chemical techniques. The reaction chemistries resulting in such linkage are well known in the art and involve the coupling of reactive functional groups present on the linker and ligand. In some cases, it may be necessary to protect portions of the ligand that are not involved in linking reactions. Protecting groups for this purpose are well known in the art and are indicated generally in the reaction schemes by the symbols PG and PG'.

Preferably, the reactive functional groups on the linker are selected relative to the functional groups on the ligand that are available for coupling, or can be introduced onto the ligand for this purpose. In some embodiments, the linker is coupled to ligand precursors, with the completion of ligand synthesis being carried out in a subsequent step. Where functional groups are lacking, they can be created by suitable chemistries that are described in standard organic chemistry texts such as J. March, Advanced Organic Chemistry, 4th Ed.

(Wiley-Interscience, N. Y., 1992). Examples of the chemistry for connecting ligands by a linker are shown in Figure 6, where R'and W represent a ligand and/or the linking group.

One skilled in the art will appreciate that synthetically equivalent coupling reactions can be substituted for the reactions illustrated herein.

The linker to which the ligands or ligand precursors are attached comprises a"core" molecule having two or more functional groups with reactivity that is complementary to that of the functional groups on the ligand. Figure 3 illustrates the diversity of"cores"that are useful for varying the linker size, shape, length, orientation, rigidity, acidity/basicity, hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity, hydrogen bonding characteristics and number of ligands connected. This pictorial representation is intended only to illustrate the invention, and not to limit its scope to the structures shown. In the Figures and reaction schemes that follow, a jagged line is used to generically represent a core molecule. The jagged line is equivalent to a linker as defined above after reaction.

The preferred compounds of Formula I are bivalent. Accordingly, and for the purpose of simplicity, most of the figures and reaction schemes below illustrate the synthesis of bivalent leukotriene receptor inhibitors. It should be noted, however, that the same techniques can be used to generate higher order multibinding compounds, i. e., the compounds of the invention where p is 3-10.

Reactions performed under standard amide coupling conditions are carried out in an inert polar solvent (e. g., DMF, DMA) in the presence of a hindered base (e. g., TEA, DIPEA) and standard amide coupling reagents (e. g., DPPA, PyBOP, HATU, DCC).

Several methods for preparing bivalent leukotriene receptor antagonist compounds, as exemplified here for the leukotriene D4 receptor antagonists zafirlukast and montelukast, and structurally analogous molecules, are illustrated in the reaction schemes shown in Figures 8- 11. These are described in detail in Examples 1-4.

The strategies for preparing compounds of Formula I discussed above involve coupling the ligand directly to a homobifunctional core. Another strategy that can be used with all ligands, and for the preparation of both bivalent and higher order multibinding compounds, is to introduce a'spacer'before coupling to a central core. Such a spacer can itself be selected from the same set as the possible core compounds. This linking strategy would use starting materials prepared as described above.

Compounds of Formula I of higher order valency, i. e., p>2, can be prepared by simple extension of the above strategies. Compounds are prepared by coupling ligands to a central core bearing multiple functional groups. The reaction conditions are the same as described above for the preparation of bivalent compounds, with appropriate adjustments made in the molar quantities of ligand and reagents.

Ligands may also be coupled to a polypeptide core with a sidechain spacer. Solid phase peptide synthesis can be used to produce a wide variety of peptidic core molecules.

Techniques well-known to those skilled in the art (including combinatorial methods) are used to vary the distance between ligand attachment sites on the core molecule, the number of attachment sites available for coupling, and the chemical properties of the core molecule.

Orthogonal protecting groups are used to selectively protect functional groups on the core molecule, thus allowing ancillary groups to be inserted into the linker of the multibinding compound and/or the preparation of"heterovalomers" (i. e., multibinding compounds with nonidentical ligands).

All of the synthetic strategies described above employ a step in which the ligand, attached to spacers or not, is symmetrically linked to functionally equivalent positions on a central core. Compounds of Formula I can also be synthesized using an asymmetric linear approach. This strategy is preferred when linking two or more ligands at different points of connectivity or when preparing heterovalomers.

Isolation and Purification of the Compounds Isolation and purification of the compounds and intermediates described herein can be effected, if desired, by any suitable separation or purification such as, for example, filtration, extraction, crystallization, column chromatography, thin-layer chromatography, thick-layer chromatography, preparative low or high-pressure liquid chromatography or a combination of these procedures. Characterization is preferably by NMR and mass spectroscopy.

Utility and Testing The multibinding compounds of this invention can be used to inhibit leukotriene receptors in various tissues including lung, trachea and blood vessels. They will typically be used for the treatment of diseases and conditions in mammals that involve or are mediated by leukotriene receptors, such as asthma, allergy, and the like.

The multibinding compounds of this invention are tested in well-known and reliable assays and their activities are compared with those of the corresponding unlinked (i. e., monovalent) ligands.

Binding affinity to leukotriene receptors The binding affinity of the compounds of the present invention compared to [3H] LTD4 is determined by a radioligand competitive inhibition assay.7,8,9,10,11 The ability of the present compounds to compete with [HTJLTD or a similar radioactive ligand in binding to guinea pig or human lung membranes is measured in vitro. The binding affinity, calculated from competition curves, is compared with that of the monovalent ligand and/or monovalent linker-ligand conjugate.

The binding affinity relative to [3H] LTC4 is determined by a radioligand competitive inhibition assay. l° ll The ability of the present compounds to compete with [3H] LTC4 or a similar radioactive ligand in binding to guinea pig or human lung membranes is measured in vitro. The binding affinity, calculated from competition curves, is compared with that of the monovalent ligand and/or monovalent linker-ligand conjugate.

The binding affinity relative to [3H] LTE4 is determined by a radioligand competitive inhibition assay. ll The ability of the present compounds to compete with H] LTE4 or a similar radioactive ligand in binding to guinea pig lung membranes is measured in vitro.

The binding affinity, calculated from competition curves, is compared with that of the monovalent ligand and/or monovalent linker-ligand conjugate.

Receptor Selectivity: The receptor selectivity of the compounds of this invention may be determined using isolated tissue systems to evaluate the functional receptor selectivity of the compounds toward LT receptors."The affinity of the compounds tested for their ability to antagonize

LT versus non-LT receptors is evaluated using a panel of tissues selected for the receptor type. The compounds will show virtually no affinity for receptors other than LT receptors, indicating receptor selectivity. The receptor selectivity is compared with that of the monovalent ligand and/or monovalent linker-ligand conjugate.

Inhibition of leukotriene activity The ability of the compounds of this invention to inhibit leukotriene activity may be determined by assessing their ability to inhibit LTD4 or LTE4-induced contractions of guinea pig ileuml° or tracheal strips in vitro.5,6,9,10 Human trachea may also be used.'" Percent inhibition of LTC4, LTD4 or LTE4 contractile response in tissues receiving test compounds relative to tissues treated with vehicle alone is calculated to determine antagonist activity. The response is compared with that of the monovalent ligand and/or monovalent linker-ligand conjugate.

In vivo leukotriene inhibition activity of the compounds of the present invention may be determined using a spontaneously breathing, conscious squirrel monkey'llo or guinea pig model. 56 ll Animals are pretreated with compound or vehicle prior to aerosol challenge with LTD4, and time to dyspnea is measured for each group. Similarly, a model of antigen-induced dyspnea in hyperreactive rats78 l0 may be used. In this model, rats are dosed orally with drug prior to antigen provocation and time to dyspnea is measured for each group. The result is compared with that of the monovalent ligand and/or monovalent linker-ligand conjugate.

In vivo leukotriene inhibition activity of the compounds of the present invention may also be determined using an anesthetized guinea pig model. l° Animals are pretreated with iv administration of compound or vehicle prior to challenge with an iv bolus dose of LTC4, LTD4 or LTE4, and reduction of the agonist response is measured for each group. The

reduction in response is compared with that of the monovalent ligand and/or monovalent linker-ligand conjugate.

The ability of the compounds of the present invention to inhibit leukotriene activity in vivo may be determined using an allergic sheep model. 8 Conscious allergic sheep are given test compound iv, then subject to aerosol challenge with allergen. Decreased peak early response and late response to antigen challenge are measured compared to controls.

The decreased responses are compared with that of the monovalent ligand and/or monovalent linker-ligand conjugate.

The ability of the compounds of the present invention to act as LT antagonists by reversing LT-induced bronchospasm may be determined. "LTC4, LTD4, or LTE4 is administered iv as a bolus dose, followed by iv administration of test compound or vehicle immediately following maximal change in Rp. The rate of return of Rp and Cdyn to baseline compared to vehicle controls is monitored. The compounds produce an increase in the rate of return of both parameters. Rate of return is compared with that produced by the monovalent ligand and/or monovalent linker-ligand conjugate.

The ability of the compounds of the present invention to act as LT antagonists by their ability to inhibit or reverse antigen-induced bronchoconstriction may be determined." Guinea pigs are sensitized with an antigen such as ovalbumin, then pretreated with compound iv prior to antigen challenge. Reduction of antigen-induced increases in Rp and decreases in Cdyn are measured. Similarly, test compound may be administered iv at the peak of antigen-induced bronchospasm and the production of a more rapid return to baseline may be measured. Results are compared with that of the monovalent ligand and/or monovalent linker-ligand conjugate.

The ability of the compounds of the present invention to block the effect of LT in non-pulmonary tissue may be measured using a guinea pig model which measures increased vascular permeability. ll The ability of the compounds to produce antagonism of LT- induced increases in cutaneous vascular permeability is measured. Results are compared with that of the monovalent ligand and/or monovalent linker-ligand conjugate.

Combinatorial Libraries The methods described above lend themselves to combinatorial approaches for identifying multimeric compounds which possess multibinding properties for leukotriene receptors.

Specifically, factors such as the proper juxtaposition of the individual ligands of a multibinding compound with respect to the relevant array of binding sites on a target or targets is important in optimizing the interaction of the multibinding compound with its target (s) and to maximize the biological advantage through multivalency. One approach is to identify a library of candidate multibinding compounds with properties spanning the multibinding parameters that are relevant for a particular target. These parameters include: (1) the identity of ligand (s), (2) the orientation of ligands, (3) the valency of the construct, (4) linker length, (5) linker geometry, (6) linker physical properties, and (7) linker chemical functional groups.

Libraries of multimeric compounds potentially possessing multibinding properties (i. e., candidate multibinding compounds) and comprising a multiplicity of such variables are prepared and these libraries are then evaluated via conventional assays corresponding to the ligand selected and the multibinding parameters desired. Considerations relevant to each of these variables are set forth below:

Selection of ligand (s) A single ligand or set of ligands is (are) selected for incorporation into the libraries of candidate multibinding compounds which library is directed against a particular biological target or targets. The only requirement for the ligands chosen is that they are capable of interacting with the selected target (s). Thus, ligands may be known drugs, modified forms of known drugs, substructures of known drugs or substrates of modified forms of known drugs (which are competent to interact with the target), or other compounds. Ligands are preferably chosen based on known favorable properties that may be projected to be carried over to or amplified in multibinding forms. Favorable properties include demonstrated safety and efficacy in human patients, appropriate PK/ADME profiles, synthetic accessibility, and desirable physical properties such as solubility, logP, etc. However, it is crucial to note that ligands which display an unfavorable property from among the previous list may obtain a more favorable property through the process of multibinding compound formation; i. e., ligands should not necessarily be excluded on such a basis. For example, a ligand that is not sufficiently potent at a particular target so as to be efficacious in a human patient may become highly potent and efficacious when presented in multibinding form. A ligand that is potent and efficacious but not of utility because of a non-mechanism-related toxic side effect may have increased therapeutic index (increased potency relative to toxicity) as a multibinding compound. Compounds that exhibit short in vivo half-lives may have extended half-lives as multibinding compounds. Physical properties of ligands that limit their usefulness (e. g. poor bioavailability due to low solubility, hydrophobicity, hydrophilicity) may be rationally modulated in multibinding forms, providing compounds with physical properties consistent with the desired utility.

Orientation: selection of ligand attachment points and linking chemistry Several points are chosen on each ligand at which to attach the ligand to the linker.

The selected points on the ligand/linker for attachment are functionalized to contain complementary reactive functional groups. This permits probing the effects of presenting

the ligands to their receptor (s) in multiple relative orientations, an important multibinding design parameter. The only requirement for choosing attachment points is that attaching to at least one of these points does not abrogate activity of the ligand. Such points for attachment can be identified by structural information when available. For example, inspection of a co-crystal structure of a protease inhibitor bound to its target allows one to identify one or more sites where linker attachment will not preclude the enzyme: inhibitor interaction. Alternatively, evaluation of ligand/target binding by nuclear magnetic resonance will permit the identification of sites non-essential for ligand/target binding. See, for example, Fesik, et al., U. S. Patent No. 5,891,643. When such structural information is not available, utilization of structure-activity relationships (SAR) for ligands will suggest positions where substantial structural variations are and are not allowed. In the absence of both structural and SAR information, a library is merely selected with multiple points of attachment to allow presentation of the ligand in multiple distinct orientations. Subsequent evaluation of this library will indicate what positions are suitable for attachment.

It is important to emphasize that positions of attachment that do abrogate the activity of the monomeric ligand may also be advantageously included in candidate multibinding compounds in the library provided that such compounds bear at least one ligand attached in a manner which does not abrogate intrinsic activity. This selection derives from, for example, heterobivalent interactions within the context of a single target molecule. For example, consider a receptor antagonist ligand bound to its target receptor, and then consider modifying this ligand by attaching to it a second copy of the same ligand with a linker which allows the second ligand to interact with the same receptor molecule at sites proximal to the antagonist binding site, which include elements of the receptor that are not part of the formal antagonist binding site and/or elements of the matrix surrounding the receptor such as the membrane. Here, the most favorable orientation for interaction of the second ligand molecule with the receptor/matrix may be achieved by attaching it to the linker at a position which abrogates activity of the ligand at the formal antagonist binding

site. Another way to consider this is that the SAR of individual ligands within the context of a multibinding structure is often different from the SAR of those same ligands in momomeric form.

The foregoing discussion focused on bivalent interactions of dimeric compounds bearing two copies of the same ligand joined to a single linker through different attachment points, one of which may abrogate the binding/activity of the monomeric ligand. It should also be understood that bivalent advantage may also be attained with heterodimeric constructs bearing two different ligands that bind to common or different targets. For example, a 5HT4 receptor antagonist and a bladder-selective muscarinic M3 antagonist may be joined to a linker through attachment points which do not abrogate the binding affinity of the monomeric ligands for their respective receptor sites. The dimeric compound may achieve enhanced affinity for both receptors due to favorable interactions between the 5HT4 ligand and elements of the M3 receptor proximal to the formal M3 antagonist binding site and between the M3 ligand and elements of the SHT4 receptor proximal to the formal 5HT4 antagonist binding site. Thus, the dimeric compound may be more potent and selective antagonist of overactive bladder and a superior therapy for urinary urge incontinence.

Once the ligand attachment points have been chosen, one identifies the types of chemical linkages that are possible at those points. The most preferred types of chemical linkages are those that are compatible with the overall structure of the ligand (or protected forms of the ligand) readily and generally formed, stable and intrinsically inocuous under typical chemical and physiological conditions, and compatible with a large number of available linkers. Amide bonds, ethers, amines, carbamates, ureas, and sulfonamides are but a few examples of preferred linkages.

Linkers: spanning relevant multibinding parameters through selection of valence, linker length, linker geometry, rigidity, physical properties, and chemical functional groups In the library of linkers employed to generate the library of candidate multibinding compounds, the selection of linkers employed in this library of linkers takes into consideration the following factors: Valency. In most instances the library of linkers is initiated with divalent linkers.

The choice of ligands and proper juxtaposition of two ligands relative to their binding sites permits such molecules to exhibit target binding affinities and specificities more than sufficient to confer biological advantage. Furthermore, divalent linkers or constructs are also typically of modest size such that they retain the desirable biodistribution properties of small molecules.

Linker length. Linkers are chosen in a range of lengths to allow the spanning of a range of inter-ligand distances that encompass the distance preferable for a given divalent interaction. In some instances the preferred distance can be estimated rather precisely from high-resolution structural information of targets, typically enzymes and soluble receptor targets. In other instances where high-resolution structural information is not available (such as 7TM G-protein coupled receptors), one can make use of simple models to estimate the maximum distance between binding sites either on adjacent receptors or at different locations on the same receptor. In situations where two binding sites are present on the same target (or target subunit for multisubunit targets), preferred linker distances are 2-20 Å, with more preferred linker distances of 3-12 Å. In situations where two binding sites reside on separate (e.g., prtein) target sites, preferred linker distances are 20-100 Å, with more preferred distances of 30-70 Å.

Linker geometry and rigidity. The combination of ligand attachment site, linker length, linker geometry, and linker rigidity determine the possible ways in which the

ligands of candidate multibinding compounds may be displayed in three dimensions and thereby presented to their binding sites. Linker geometry and rigidity are nominally determined by chemical composition and bonding pattern, which may be controlled and are systematically varied as another spanning function in a multibinding array. For example, linker geometry is varied by attaching two ligands to the ortho, meta, and para positions of a benzene ring, or in cis-or trans-arrangements at the 1,1- vs. 1,2-vs. 1,3-vs. 1,4- positions around a cyclohexane core or in cis-or trans-arrangements at a point of ethylene unsaturation. Linker rigidity is varied by controlling the number and relative energies of different conformational states possible for the linker. For example, a divalent compound bearing two ligands joined by 1,8-octyl linker has many more degrees of freedom, and is therefore less rigid than a compound in which the two ligands are attached to the 4,4' positions of a biphenyl linker.

Linker physical properties. The physical properties of linkers are nominally determined by the chemical constitution and bonding patterns of the linker, and linker physical properties impact the overall physical properties of the candidate multibinding compounds in which they are included. A range of linker compositions is typically selected to provide a range of physical properties (hydrophobicity, hydrophilicity, amphiphilicity, polarization, acidity, and basicity) in the candidate multibinding compounds. The particular choice of linker physical properties is made within the context of the physical properties of the ligands they join and preferably the goal is to generate molecules with favorable PK/ADME properties. For example, linkers can be selected to avoid those that are too hydrophilic or too hydrophobic to be readily absorbed and/or distributed in vivo.

Linker chemical functional groups. Linker chemical functional groups are selected to be compatible with the chemistry chosen to connect linkers to the ligands and to impart the range of physical properties sufficient to span initial examination of this parameter.

Combinatorial synthesis Having chosen a set of n ligands (n being determined by the sum of the number of different attachment points for each ligand chosen) and m linkers by the process outlined above, a library of (n!) m candidate divalent multibinding compounds is prepared which spans the relevant multibinding design parameters for a particular target. For example, an array generated from two ligands, one which has two attachment points (A1, A2) and one which has three attachment points (Bl, B2, B3) joined in all possible combinations provide for at least 15 possible combinations of multibinding compounds: A1-A1 A1-A2 A1-B1 A1-B2 A1-B3 A2-A2 A2-B1 A2-B2 A2-B3 Bl-Bl B1-B2 B1-B3 B2-B2 B2-B3 B3-B3 When each of these combinations is joined by 10 different linkers, a library of 150 candidate multibinding compounds results.

Given the combinatorial nature of the library, common chemistries are preferably used to join the reactive functionalies on the ligands with complementary reactive functionalities on the linkers. The library therefore lends itself to efficient parallel synthetic methods. The combinatorial library can employ solid phase chemistries well known in the art wherein the ligand and/or linker is attached to a solid support. Alternatively and preferably, the combinatorial libary is prepared in the solution phase. After synthesis, candidate multibinding compounds are optionally purified before assaying for activity by, for example, chromatographic methods (e. g., HPLC).

Analysis of array bv biochemical. analytical, pharmacological, and computational methods Various methods are used to characterize the properties and activities of the candidate multibinding compounds in the library to determine which compounds possess multibinding properties. Physical constants such as solubility under various solvent

conditions and logD/clogD values can be determined. A combination of NMR spectroscopy and computational methods is used to determine low-energy conformations of the candidate multibinding compounds in fluid media. The ability of the members of the library to bind to the desired target and other targets is determined by various standard methods, which include radioligand displacement assays for receptor and ion channel targets, and kinetic inhibition analysis for many enzyme targets. In vitro efficacy, such as for receptor agonists and antagonists, ion channel blockers, and antimicrobial activity, can also be determined. Pharmacological data, including oral absorption, everted gut penetration, other pharmacokinetic parameters and efficacy data can be determined in appropriate models. In this way, key structure-activity relationships are obtained for multibinding design parameters which are then used to direct future work.

The members of the library which exhibit multibinding properties, as defined herein, can be readily determined by conventional methods. First those members which exhibit multibinding properties are identified by conventional methods as described above including conventional assays (both in vitro and in vivo).

Second, ascertaining the structure of those compounds which exhibit multibinding properties can be accomplished via art recognized procedures. For example, each member of the library can be encrypted or tagged with appropriate information allowing determination of the structure of relevant members at a later time. See, for example, Dower, et al., International Patent Application Publication No. WO 93/06121; Brenner, et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., USA, 89: 5181 (1992); Gallop, et al., U. S. Patent No.

5,846,839; each of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Alternatively, the structure of relevant multivalent compounds can also be determined from soluble and untagged libaries of candidate multivalent compounds by methods known in the art such as those described by Hindsgaul, et al., Canadian Patent Application No.

2,240,325 which was published on July 11,1998. Such methods couple frontal affinity

chromatography with mass spectroscopy to determine both the structure and relative binding affinities of candidate multibinding compounds to receptors.

The process set forth above for dimeric candidate multibinding compounds can, of course, be extended to trimeric candidate compounds and higher analogs thereof.

Follow-up synthesis and analysis of additional array (s) Based on the information obtained through analysis of the initial library, an optional component of the process is to ascertain one or more promising multibinding"lead" compounds as defined by particular relative ligand orientations, linker lengths, linker geometries, etc. Additional libraries can then be generated around these leads to provide for further information regarding structure to activity relationships. These arrays typically bear more focused variations in linker structure in an effort to further optimize target affinity and/or activity at the target (antagonism, partial agonism, etc.), and/or alter physical properties. By iterative redesign/analysis using the novel principles of multibinding design along with classical medicinal chemistry, biochemistry, and pharmacology approaches, one is able to prepare and identify optimal multibinding compounds that exhibit biological advantage towards their targets and as therapeutic agents.

To further elaborate upon this procedure, suitable divalent linkers include, by way of example only, those derived from dicarboxylic acids, disulfonylhalides, dialdehydes, diketones, dihalides, diisocyanates, diamines, diols, mixtures of carboxylic acids, sulfonylhalides, aldehydes, ketones, halides, isocyanates, amines and diols. In each case, the carboxylic acid, sulfonylhalide, aldehyde, ketone, halide, isocyanate, amine and diol functional group is reacted with a complementary functionality on the ligand to form a covalent linkage. Such complementary functionality is well known in the art as illustrated in the following table:

COMPLEMENTARY BINDING CHEMISTRIES First Reactive Group Second Reactive Group Linkage hydroxyl isocyanate urethane amine epoxide p-hydroxyamine sulfonyl halide amine sulfonamide carboxyl acid amine amide hydroxyl alkyl/aryl halide ether aldehyde amine/NaCNBH4 amine ketone amine/NaCNBH4 amine amine isocyanate carbamate Exemplary linkers include the following linkers identified as X-1 through X-418 as set forth below: Diacids R n 9"9 n P"OH0OH0OH HO 0 j, H H 0ON 0 OH HO-o ( ° CM. XMXxXx-6 !? °H 0 OH qottOH HO 0 OH CH X-2 X-3 X-4 X4 X-6 S HO O- HO-A \==/ X. 7X-it oX9X-tOX-UX-t2 o n, e XJ X-8 o X-9 X-t0 X-1 ! X-12 0 ou H OH OH pH O No p O 0 O hfC O Ha HC X-13 X-14 X-l3 Xd6 X-17 X-18 p HO p oH Ho OH H o 0 0 HO H CH r. A ° Vl O H OH X-19 X-20 X-21 X-22 X-23 X-24 0 0 0 0 HO 0 HO // \J \O x-zs x. 2s°'x-n xas X. a x-3n _. Q O o OH cl bu ci 0 H a X-31 X-32 X-33 X-34 X-35 X-36 0 0 Nô 0% o () i °' o S °H A o 0 ro o u oN c cH, X-37 X-38 X-39 X-40g X-4I X-42 ho 0 0 0 HOA -- w HOÅ vO 13H HO ; HO g @ OH O a1 X-43 X-44 X-45 X-46. 7 X-48 iO O "11N u OH O y ! { UN/rU p O/--' ( y Q. ON--/'OH ! O 0 Ib HO X-49 o X-30 X-SI X-52 X31 X-34 __. __. _.. ___- _ H, C 11-. 0 HO O I \ P Q p HO FIC''O'1r -55 NC X-56 X-57 X-58 X-59 X-60 l9 PH. j I O I K o1 Ho s s o ro 0 0 0 X-61 X-62 X-63 X-64 X-65 X-66 0 a, °'. o Hp M 0 0 /\ Ho O a X-67 X-69 X69 X-70 X-71 X-72 HOI I I I I I 1 I/%-o _. __. HO r' UH p, oH ° c cl 0 cm d'cl a N' IIN HJ « . O eN o MO dl w p OM O o1, (NO O X-79 X-80 X-8l ° 8 X-82 X. 83 X-84 . _-ppp555 ! Il, MO"y.../ ON/// J l d1 k"... GO r i ,, yb,,"U X-83-X-86 7 (. 87 o a n T °"- . R I ON S 8V ' dl/I O O ND p o, 7 O X-91 X-93 X-97 X-94 X-9 X-96 r r r r r o oH rSccH, HF cH, ra HO 0 0 Ct% qu 1F ff ff f 0 -ON p O O X.97X-9 ! X-99X-tCDX-) 01x-102 Oh HO 3,,,, 1\/1 w ou F F F F F F 0 t X-103 X-104 X-105-X-106 X-107 X-108 HO ! 10 G HO _rJ [ ID 1 O1 al Q V, OFI N /,.. ON 'O Q 5 Xd09 I os x {} 31 r 4 iN OH ON °'" p qpp 0 O-O O OH OH ti0 o ON o' J n, \ I s H FID O o u HD OH HO OH p O OH X 116 XJ 17 X l li X-l 19 X-121 IL w-0 o--o \\ O HO'OW HO OH 3'0 p r-r ° o o_J 0 w X-121 X-122 X-123 X-124 X. 12i X-121 0II OH OH G HO"v v v'0 II... K ruz s 0.-1.o ON zoo M/O 1a o X127 X-128 X129 X-130 X-131 X-132 DisulfonylHalides . _ ) ° °gs° o cs''i f7 p I G Io o o I1 //e-F I/O \ I o OSvC OSvG O9vd o9F 0 X-133 X 134 X. 135 X-13 t X. 137 X-13 F,/10 F 0 0 jO""'° o s a° i w i. o'° ° a o'av's'a 0 0.- : b- X-139 X. 140 X-141 cttw X-14 X-14 X-14 S 0 ci v, r a f, B i i e s ai ? o w y ooa oo CL3 "NNN/ I i a-°/° I $a i j G C Xd4 ! a Xt46 X-147 X-146 X-t49 X-I50 W w a w w q °,k. A !. La a, AkA l ii, ci A X. ui X-ts1 . _ X lJl X. 152. __Dialdehydes 0 zi o zo4 os o X-153 X14 X-135 X-136 X-157 X-I58 ou" I o X-159 X-160 X-161 X-162 X-163 X-164 o i i I o"'°° o o_ o 1 I w o \/ X-165 X-166 X-167 X-168 X-169 X-170 011 : 1l" ir-O 1 ira ira aw X-171 X-172 X-173 X-174 Dihalides Cl% W e/arer i °'. a a oH oß\\o 9 0 r r o i I X-175 X-176 X-177 X-179 X-179 X-19 e, && y a 0 < ~a tY v Brj' g \\ bo 11 oN F P Cl% f °"',"'..'' 5 X-193 X-I94 X-193 XI96 X-l97 X-198 Ek o. C (. k fw o & O & X-1'YJ X200 X-201 X-202 X-203 X-204 Nô, 0 nu-0 X-205 X-206 X-207 X-201 X-209--X-210 X-211 X-212 X-213 X-214 N . F a Ne X-ZHX.! t2X-2) 3X-2t4 Diisocyanates ''v i °- F% C-O N 11C-0 0-Ql X-215 X-216 X-217 X-21. X-219 X-220 / /y 9 CM, NG C NF a x-ni x-zxz xa x-zzo x. u x-zzs o/N I I N/o o r GSI I No o a I a, o w I \o i _ v a 0 X-227 X-218 X229 X230 X-231 ° X-232 °> X-22>77/zBJ ; </4rg~b3-. _. _ o\ o\N N'N I 0 N X 1O. 0/. W i X. 273 X74 X-237 °S 7 (_736 d X-2371 _ < o X 238 O G % N C X-239 X-240 X. \ i/o O O 4s ll //H j" m. I N N I 0 X-244 X-24 : X-246 x-247 X-M< Diamines GH X-249 X. 2J0 X-231 X-252 X-237'S". v X-234 H) Nt% N N Non nez XdJ3 X-2i6 X-238 X-259 vNwNMCN'7'//"7 I I N4 I NII, N9N'7 N R'IGO N X-261 X-262 X-267 X-T64 X-163 X-2G6 4r yN_N, CH. HO X-267X-2ftX-269X. 270X. 27) X-272 rtlN HsN/HN/ I \ X-267 X-261 X-265 X. 27s X. 271 X-27 : x. zn x-xa x. 2 ». mb x.n x-ns X-273X-274X-27i'. 275X. 277x-27t KY°0- X- ! 79X- : MX-20 a \-/x-: <2X-2Mx-! t4 a_. I5"N'J "3c u v tfH, Xd79 X-2H0 X-281 X-282 X-287 X-2B4 nu, v I \ $'\ 0 CH, x. za x-zas x-xe N'x-zne x-xas x-o P6N,,7 \//O N, HN>NH, ""' "'' X-291 Xd92 X. y93 X294 X. 293 X-296 tlCVNwNVGF HiNMi 0\\//0 I I I tS I \ H4 i I. I Ni NH2 X-197 X-298 X299 X-300 X-301 X. 3U1 X-297 X-299 X-299 X-300 X-301 X. 302 MI. /\ N X-303 X-304 X-305 X-306 X-3 X-308 NH, kN HN. H3 N \ NH, X309 X-310 X-71l X-712 X-3l3 X314 - Cl% I04 X-3MX. 3XX-3t7X-3t ! X-3t9X-3M v W X-321 X-322 X-323 X-324 X-325 Diols //////I -\ 326! 7X-3 ! iX-9 ! 9x-330x-33i CX f- , X-332 X-333 X-334 X-33'X-336 X-33 JY i JC i Y 0 X-338 X-339 X-340 X-341 X-342 X-34' N N M X-344: X-346X-347X-34 ! X-349 N N X-3J0 X-3 ! 1 X772 X-333 XJ34 X-355 I \//WU 356 X-357 X-359 X-359 X-3601 X-361 \\// i zizi J'- "v 0 0 (Y X-362 X-363 X-364 X-365 X-366 X-367 r X-368 X369 X-370 X-37I X7 ? 1 X-377 /M/ X H ~ X374 X-373 X376 X377 X-778 X-379 'iS !' X-380 X381 X382 X-83 X-384 X-383 Dithiols X3s6 XJS7 x-3Sa r)< s~X786 XJ89 X-398 X-389 X-390 X-79t ###### X-394X-395X-396X-397X-392X-393 # # # # # # X-400X-401X-402X-403X-398X-399 # # # # # # X-406X-407X-408X-409X-404X-405 # # # # # # X-412X-413X-414X-415X-410X-411 ### X-418X-416X-417

Representative ligands for use in this invention include, by way of example, L-1 through L-2. L-1 ligands are zafirlukast compounds (see, e. g., Figures 8-10 and Examples 1-3). Montelukast structures are designated L-2 ligands (see, e. g., Figure 11 and Example 4).

Combinations of ligands (L) and linkers (X) per this invention include, by way example only, homo-and hetero-dimers wherein a first ligand is selected from L-1 through L-2 above and the second ligand and linker is selected from the following: <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-1-L-1/X-2-L-1/X-3-L-1/X-4-L-1/X-5-L-1/X-6-<BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-7-L-1/X-8-L-1/X-9-L-1/X-10-L-l/X-11-L-1/X-12-<BR> ; <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-13-L-1/X-14-L-1/X-15-L-1/X-16-L-1/X-17-L-1/X-18- L-1/X-19-L-1/X-20-L-1/X-21-L-1/X-22-L-1/X-23-L-1/X-24- L-1/X-25-L-1/X-26-L-1/X-27-L-1/X-28-L-1/X-29-L-1/X-30- L-1/X-31-L-1/X-32-L-1/X-33-L-1/X-34-L-1/X-35-L-1/X-36- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-37-L-1/X-38-L-1/X-39-L-1/X-40-L-1/X-41-L-1/X-42-<BR > <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-43-L-1/X-44-L-1/X-45-L-1/X-46-L-1/X-47-L-1/X-48- L-1/X-49-L-1/X-50-L-1/X-51-L-1/X-52-L-1/X-53-L-1/X-54- L-1/X-55-L-1/X-56-L-1/X-57-L-1/X-58-L-1/X-59-L-1/X-60- L-1/X-61-L-1/X-62-L-1/X-63-L-1/X-64-L-1/X-65-L-1/X-66- <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-67-L-1/X-68-L-1/X-69-L-1/X-70-L-1/X-71-L-1/X-72-<BR > <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-73-L-1/X-74-L-1/X-75-L-1/X-76-L-1/X-77-L-1/X-78-<BR > <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-79-L-1/X-80-L-l/X-81-L-1/X-82-L-1/X-83-L-1/X-84-<BR > <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-85-L-1/X-86-L-1/X-87-L-1/X-88-L-1/X-89-L-1/X-90-<BR > <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-91-L-1/X-92-L-1/X-93-L-1/X-94-L-1/X-95-L-1/X-96-<BR > <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-97-L-1/X-98-L-1/X-99-L-1/X-100-L-1/X-101-L-1/X-102-< ;BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-103-L-1/X-104-L-1/X-105-L-1/X-106-L-1/X-107-L-1/X-108- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-109-L-1/X-110-L-1/X-111-L-1/X-112-L-1/X-113-L-1/X-114- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-115-L-1/X-116-L-1/X-117-L-1/X-118-L-1/X-119-L-1/X-120-

L-1/X-123-L-1/X-124-L-1/X-125-L-1/X-126-L-1/X-121-L-1/X-122- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-127-L-1/X-128-L-1/X-129-L-1/X-130-L-1/X-131-L-1/X-132- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-133-L-1/X-134-L-1/X-135-L-1/X-136-L-1/X-137-L-1/X-138- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-139-L-1/X-140-L-1/X-141-L-1/X-142-L-1/X-143-L-1/X-144- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-145-L-1/X-146-L-1/X-147-L-1/X-148-L-1/X-149-L-1/X-150- L-1/X-153-L-1/X-154-L-1/X-155-L-1/X-156-L-1/X-151-L-1/X-152- <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-157-L-1/X-158-L-1/X-159-L-1/X-160-L-1/X-161-L-1/X-162- L-1/X-165-L-1/X-166-L-1/X-167-L-1/X-168-L-1/X-163-L-1/X-164- L-1/X-169-L-1/X-170-L-1/X-171-L-1/X-172-L-1/X-173-L-1/X-174- L-1/X-175-L-1/X-176-L-1/X-177-L-1/X-178-L-1/X-179-L-1/X-180- <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-181-L-1/X-182-L-1/X-183-L-1/X-184-L-1/X-185-L-1/X-186- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-187-L-1/X-188-L-1/X-189-L-1/X-190-L-1/X-191-L-1/X-192- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-193-L-1/X-194-L-1/X-195-L-1/X-196-L-1/X-197-L-1/X-198- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-199-L-1/X-200-L-1/X-201-L-1/X-202-L-1/X-203-L-1/X-204- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-205-L-1/X-206-L-1/X-207-L-1/X-208-L-1/X-209-L-1/X-210- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-211-L-1/X-212-L-1/X-213-L-1/X-214-L-1/X-215-L-1/X-216- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-217-L-1/X-218-L-1/X-219-L-1/X-220-L-1/X-221-L-1/X-222- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-223-L-1/X-224-L-1/X-225-L-1/X-226-L-1/X-227-L-1/X-228- L-1/X-229-L-1/X-230-L-1/X-231-L-1/X-232-L-1/X-233-L-1/X-234- <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-235-L-1/X-236-L-1/X-237-L-1/X-238-L-1/X-239-L-1/X-240- L-1/X-243-L-1/X-244-L-1/X-245-L-1/X-246-L-1/X-241-L-1/X-252- <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-247-L-1/X-248-L-1/X-249-L-1/X-250-L-1/X-251-L-1/X-252- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-253-L-1/X-254-L-1/X-255-L-1/X-256-L-1/X-257-L-1/X-258- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-259-L-1/X-260-L-1/X-261-L-1/X-262-L-1/X-263-L-1/X-264- L-1/X-265-L-1/X-266-L-1/X-267-L-1/X-268-L-1/X-269-L-1/X-270- L-1/X-273-L-1/X-274-L-1/X-275-L-1/X-276-L-1/X-271-L-1/X-272- <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-277-L-1/X-278-L-1/X-279-L-1/X-280-L-1/X-281-L-1/X-282- L-1/X-285-L-1/X-286-L-1/X-287-L-1/X-288-L-1/X-283-L-1/X-284- L-1/X-291-L-1/X-292-L-1/X-293-L-1/X-294-L-1/X-289-L-1/X-290-

L-1/X-295-L-1/X-296-L-1/X-297-L-1/X-298-L-l/X-299-L-1/X-300- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-301-L-1/X-302-L-1/X-303-L-1/X-304-L-1/X-305-L-1/X-306- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-307-L-1/X-308-L-1/X-309-L-1/X-310-L-1/X-311-L-1/X-312- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-313-L-1/X-314-L-1/X-315-L-1/X-316-L-1/X-317-L-1/X-318- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-319-L-1/X-320-L-1/X-321-L-1/X-322-L-1/X-323-L-1/X-324- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-325-L-1/X-326-L-1/X-327-L-1/X-328-L-1/X-329-L-1/X-330- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-331-L-1/X-332-L-1/X-333-L-1/X-334-L-1/X-335-L-1/X-336- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-337-L-1/X-338-L-1/X-339-L-1/X-340-L-1/X-341-L-1/X-342- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-343-L-1/X-344-L-1/X-345-L-1/X-346-L-1/X-347-L-1/X-348- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-349-L-1/X-350-L-1/X-351-L-1/X-352-L-1/X-353-L-1/X-354- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-355-L-1/X-356-L-1/X-357-L-1/X-358-L-1/X-359-L-1/X-360- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-361-L-1/X-362-L-1/X-363-L-1/X-364-L-1/X-365-L-1/X-366- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-367-L-1/X-368-L-1/X-369-L-1/X-370-L-1/X-371-L-1/X-372- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-373-L-1/X-374-L-1/X-375-L-1/X-376-L-1/X-377-L-1/X-378- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-379-L-1/X-380-L-1/X-381-L-1/X-382-L-1/X-383-L-1/X-384- L-1/X-387-L-1/X-388-L-1/X-389-L-1/X-390-L-1/X-385-L-1/X-386- L-1/X-393-L-1/X-394-L-1/X-395-L-1/X-396-L-1/X-391-L-1/X-392- L-1/X-397-L-1/X-398-L-1/X-399-L-1/X-400-L-1/X-401-L-1/X-402- L-1/X-405-L-1/X-406-L-1/X-407-L-1/X-408-L-1/X-403-L-1/X-404- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-1/X-409-L-1/X-410-L-1/X-411-L-1/X-412-L-1/X-413-L-1/X-414- L-1/X-417-L-1/X-418-L-1/X-415-L-1/X-416- L-2/X-1-L-2/X-2-L-2/X-3-L-2/X-4-L-2/X-5-L-2/X-6- L-2/X-7-L-2/X-8-L-2/X-9-L-2/X-10-L-2/X-11-L-2/X-12- L-2/X-13-L-2/X-14-L-2/X-15-L-2/X-16-L-2/X-17-L-2/X-18- L-2/X-19-L-2/X-20-L-2/X-21-L-2/X-22-L-2/X-23-L-2/X-24- L-2/X-25-L-2/X-26-L-2/X-27-L-2/X-28-L-2/X-29-L-2/X-30- <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-31-L-2/X-32-L-2/X-33-L-2/X-34-L-2/X-35-L-2/X-36-<BR > <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-37-L-2/X-38-L-2/X-39-L-2/X-40-L-2/X-41-L-2/X-42-

L-2/X-43-L-2/X-44-L-2/X-45-L-2/X-46-L-2/X-47-L-2/X-48- L-2/X-49-L-2/X-50-L-2/X-51-L-2/X-52-L-2/X-53-L-2/X-54- L-2/X-55-L-2/X-56-L-2/X-57-L-2/X-58-L-2/X-59-L-2/X-60- L-2/X-61-L-2/X-62-L-2/X-63-L-2/X-64-L-2/X-65-L-2/X-66- L-2/X-67-L-2/X-68-L-2/X-69-L-2/X-70-L-2/X-71-L-2/X-72- L-2/X-73-L-2/X-74-L-2/X-75-L-2/X-76-L-2/X-77-L-2/X-78- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-79-L-2/X-80-L-2/X-81-L-2/X-82-L-2/X-83-L-2/X-84- L-2/X-85-L-2/X-86-L-2/X-87-L-2/X-88-L-2/X-89-L-2/X-90- L-2/X-91-L-2/X-92-L-2/X-93-L-2/X-94-L-2/X-95-L-2/X-96- L-2/X-97-L-2/X-98-L-2/X-99-L-2/X-100-L-2/X-101-L-2/X-102- L-2/X-103-L-2/X-104-L-2/X-105-L-2/X-106-L-2/X-107-L-2/X-108- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-109-L-2/X-110-L-2/X-111-L-2/X-112-L-2/X-113-L-2/X-114- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-115-L-2/X-116-L-2/X-117-L-2/X-118-L-2/X-119-L-2/X-120- L-2/X-121-L-2/X-122-L-2/X-123-L-2/X-124-L-2/X-125-L-2/X-126- L-2/X-127-L-2/X-128-L-2/X-129-L-2/X-130-L-2/X-131-L-2/X-132- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-133-L-2/X-134-L-2/X-135-L-2/X-136-L-2/X-137-L-2/X-138- L-2/X-139-L-2/X-140-L-2/X-141-L-2/X-142-L-2/X-143-L-2/X-144- L-2/X-145-L-2/X-146-L-2/X-147-L-2/X-148-L-2/X-149-L-2/X-150- L-2/X-151-L-2/X-152-L-2/X-153-L-2/X-154-L-2/X-155-L-2/X-156- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-157-L-2/X-158-L-2/X-159-L-2/X-160-L-2/X-161-L-2/X-162- L-2/X-163 L-2/X-164 L-2/X-165 L-2/X-166 L-2/X-167 L-2/X-168 L-2/X-169 L-2/X-170 L-2/X-171 L-2/X-172 L-2/X-173-L-2/X-174- L-2/X-175-L-2/X-176-L-2/X-177-L-2/X-178-L-2/X-179-L-2/X-180- L-2/X-181-L-2/X-182-L-2/X-183-L-2/X-184-L-2/X-185-L-2/X-186- L-2/X-187-L-2/X-188-L-2/X-189-L-2/X-190-L-2/X-191-L-2/X-192- L-2/X-193-L-2/X-194-L-2/X-195-L-2/X-196-L-2/X-197-L-2/X-198- L-2/X-199-L-2/X-200-L-2/X-201-L-2/X-202-L-2/X-203-L-2/X-204- L-2/X-205-L-2/X-206-L-2/X-207-L-2/X-208-L-2/X-209-L-2/X-210- <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-211-L-2/X-212-L-2/X-213-L-2/X-214-L-2/X-215-L-2/X-216-

L-2/X-217-L-2/X-218-L-2/X-219-L-2/X-220-L-2/X-221-L-2/X-222- L-2/X-223-L-2/X-224-L-2/X-225-L-2/X-226-L-2/X-227-L-2/X-228- L-2/X-229-L-2/X-230-L-2/X-231-L-2/X-232-L-2/X-233-L-2/X-234- L-2/X-235-L-2/X-236-L-2/X-237-L-2/X-238-L-2/X-239-L-2/X-240- L-2/X-241-L-2/X-242-L-2/X-243-L-2/X-244-L-2/X-245-L-2/X-246- L-2/X-247-L-2/X-248-L-2/X-249-L-2/X-250-L-2/X-251-L-2/X-252- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-253-L-2/X-254-L-2/X-255-L-2/X-256-L-2/X-257-L-2/X-258- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-259-L-2/X-260-L-2/X-261-L-2/X-262-L-2/X-263-L-2/X-264- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-265-L-2/X-266-L-2/X-267-L-2/X-268-L-2/X-269-L-2/X-270- L-2/X-271-L-2/X-272-L-2/X-273-L-2/X-274-L-2/X-275-L-2/X-276- L-2/X-277-L-2/X-278-L-2/X-279-L-2/X-280-L-2/X-281-L-2/X-282- L-2/X-283-L-2/X-284-L-2/X-285-L-2/X-286-L-2/X-287-L-2/X-288- L-2/X-289-L-2/X-290-L-2/X-291-L-2/X-292-L-2/X-293-L-2/X-294- L-2/X-295-L-2/X-296-L-2/X-297-L-2/X-298-L-2/X-299-L-2/X-300- L-2/X-301-L-2/X-302-L-2/X-303-L-2/X-304-L-2/X-305-L-2/X-306- <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-307-L-2/X-308-L-2/X-309-L-2/X-310-L-2/X-311-L-2/X-312- L-2/X-313-L-2/X-314-L-2/X-315-L-2/X-316-L-2/X-317-L-2/X-318- L-2/X-319-L-2/X-320-L-2/X-321-L-2/X-322-L-2/X-323-L-2/X-324- L-2/X-325-L-2/X-326-L-2/X-327-L-2/X-328-L-2/X-329-L-2/X-330- L-2/X-331-L-2/X-332-L-2/X-333-L-2/X-334-L-2/X-335-L-2/X-336- L-2/X-337-L-2/X-338-L-2/X-339-L-2/X-340-L-2/X-341-L-2/X-342- <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-343-L-2/X-344-L-2/X-345-L-2/X-346-L-2/X-347-L-2/X-348- L-2/X-349-L-2/X-350-L-2/X-351-L-2/X-352-L-2/X-353-L-2/X-354- L-2/X-355-L-2/X-356-L-2/X-357-L-2/X-358-L-2/X-359-L-2/X-360- L-2/X-361-L-2/X-362-L-2/X-363-L-2/X-364-L-2/X-365-L-2/X-366- L-2/X-367-L-2/X-368-L-2/X-369-L-2/X-370-L-2/X-371-L-2/X-372- L-2/X-373-L-2/X-374-L-2/X-375-L-2/X-376-L-2/X-377-L-2/X-378- L-2/X-379-L-2/X-380-L-2/X-381-L-2/X-382-L-2/X-383-L-2/X-384-

L-2/X-385-L-2/X-386-L-2/X-387-L-2/X-388-L-2/X-389-L-2/X-390- L-2/X-391-L-2/X-392-L-2/X-393-L-2/X-394-L-2/X-395-L-2/X-396- L-2/X-397-L-2/X-398-L-2/X-399-L-2/X-400-L-2/X-401-L-2/X-402- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-403-L-2/X-404-L-2/X-405-L-2/X-406-L-2/X-407-L-2/X-408- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-409-L-2/X-410-L-2/X-411-L-2/X-412-L-2/X-413-L-2/X-414- <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> <BR> L-2/X-415-L-2/X-416-L-2/X-417-L-2/X-418.

Pharmaceutical Formulations When employed as pharmaceuticals, the compounds of Formula I are usually administered in the form of pharmaceutical compositions. This invention therefore provides pharmaceutical compositions which contain, as the active ingredient, one or more of the compounds of Formula I above or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, carriers, diluents, permeation enhancers, solubilizers and adjuvants. The compounds may be administered alone or in combination with other therapeutic agents. Such compositions are prepared in a manner well known in the pharmaceutical art (see, e. g., Remington's Pharm. Sci., Mack Publishing Co., Philadelphia, PA, 17i Ed. (1985) and"Modern Pharm. ", Marcel Dekker, Inc., 3dEd. (G. S. Banker & C. T.

Rhodes, Eds.).

The ability of the compounds of the present invention to antagonize the actions of the leukotrienes makes them useful for preventing or reversing the symptoms induced by the leukotrienes in a human subject. This antagonism of the actions of leukotrienes indicates that the compounds and pharmaceutical compositions thereof are useful to treat, prevent, or ameliorate in mammals and especially in humans: 1) pulmonary disorders including diseases such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and related obstructive airway diseases, 2) allergies and allergic reactions such as allergic rhinitis, contact dermatitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and the like, 3) inflammation such as arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease, 4) pain, 5) skin disorders such as atopic eczema, and the like, 6) cardiovascular disorders such as angina, myocardial ischemia, hypertension, platelet aggregation, and the like, 7) renal insufficiency

arising from ischemia induced by immunological or chemical (cyclosporin) etiology, 8) migraine or cluster headache, 9) ocular conditions such as uveitis, 10) hepatitis resulting from chemical, immunological or infectious stimuli, 11) trauma or shock states such as burn injuries, endotoxemia, and the like, 12) allograft rejection, 13) prevention of side effects associated with therapeutic administration of cytokines such as interleukin 2 and tumor necrosis factor, 14) chronic lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis, bronchitis and other small- and large-airway diseases, and 15) cholecystitis'.

Thus, the compounds of the present invention may also be used to treat or prevent mammalian (especially, human) disease states such as erosive gastritis; erosive esophagitis; diarrhea; cerebral spasm; premature labor; spontaneous abortion; dysmenorrhea; ischemia; noxious agent-induced damage or necrosis of hepatic, pancreatic, renal, or myocardial tissue; liver parenchymal damage caused by hepatoxic agents such as CCI and D-galactosamine; ischemic renal failure; disease-induced hepatic damage; bile salt induced pancreatic or gastric damage; trauma-or stress-induced cell damage; and glycerol-induced renal failure. The compounds may also exhibit cytoprotective action'2.

The compounds of Formula I may be administered by any of the accepted modes of administration of agents having similar utilities, for example, by oral, parenteral, rectal, buccal, intranasal or transdermal routes. The most suitable route will depend on the nature and severity of the condition being treated. Oral administration is a preferred route for the compounds of this invention. In making the compositions of this invention, the active ingredient is usually diluted by an excipient or enclosed within such a carrier which can be in the form of a capsule, sachet, paper or other container. When the excipient serves as a diluent, it can be a solid, semi-solid, or liquid material, which acts as a vehicle, carrier or medium for the active ingredient. Thus, the compositions can be in the form of tablets, pills, powders, lozenges, sachets, cachets, elixirs, suspensions, emulsions, solutions, syrups, aerosols (as a solid or in a liquid medium), ointments containing, for example, up to 10% by weight of the active compound, soft and hard gelatin capsules, suppositories, sterile injectable

solutions, and sterile packaged powders. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the active agents may be prepared using standard procedures known to those skilled in the art of synthetic organic chemistry and described, e. g., by J. March, Advanced Organic Chem.

Rections, Mechanisms and Structure, 4th Ed. (N. Y.: Wiley-Interscience, 1992).

Some examples of suitable excipients include lactose, dextrose, sucrose, sorbitol, mannitol, starches, gum acacia, calcium phosphate, alginates, tragacanth, gelatin, calcium silicate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone, cellulose, sterile water, syrup, and methyl cellulose. The formulations can additionally include: lubricating agents such as talc, magnesium stearate, and mineral oil; wetting agents; emulsifying and suspending agents; preserving agents such as methyl-and propylhydroxy-benzoates; sweetening agents; and flavoring agents.

The compositions of the invention can be formulated so as to provide quick, sustained or delayed release of the active ingredient after administration to the patient by employing procedures known in the art. Controlled release drug delivery systems for oral administration include osmotic pump systems and dissolutional systems containing polymer-coated reservoirs or drug-polymer matrix formulations. Examples of controlled release systems are given in U. S. Patent Nos. 3,845,770; 4,326,525; 4,902514; and 5,616,345. Another preferred formulation for use in the methods of the present invention employs transdermal delivery devices ("patches"). Such transdermal patches may be used to provide continuous or discontinuous infusion of the compounds of the present invention in controlled amounts. The construction and use of transdermal patches for the delivery of pharmaceutical agents is well known in the art. See, e. g., U. S. Patent Nos. 5,023,252; 4,992,445 and 5,001,139. Such patches may be constructed for continuous, pulsatile, or on demand delivery of pharmaceutical agents.

The compositions are preferably formulated in a unit dosage form. The term"unit dosage forms"refers to physically discrete units suitable as unitary dosages for human

subjects and other mammals, each unit containing a predetermined quantity of active material calculated to produce the desired therapeutic effect, in association with a suitable pharmaceutical excipient (e. g., a tablet, capsule, ampoule). The active compound is effective over a wide dosage range and is generally administered in a pharmaceutically effective amount. Preferably, for oral administration, each dosage unit contains from 1-250 mg of a compound of Formula I, and for parenteral administration, preferably from 0.1 to 60 mg of a compound of Formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. It will be understood, however, that the amount of the compound actually administered will be determined by a physician, in the light of the relevant circumstances, including the condition to be treated, the chosen route of administration, the actual compound administered and its relative activity, the age, weight, and response of the individual patient, the severity of the patient's symptoms, and the like.

For preparing solid compositions such as tablets, the principal active ingredient is mixed with a pharmaceutical excipient to form a solid preformulation composition containing a homogeneous mixture of a compound of the present invention. When referring to these preformulation compositions as homogeneous, it is meant that the active ingredient is dispersed evenly throughout the composition so that the composition may be readily subdivided into equally effective unit dosage forms such as tablets, pills and capsules.

The tablets or pills of the present invention may be coated or otherwise compounded to provide a dosage form affording the advantage of prolonged action. For example, the tablet or pill can comprise an inner dosage and an outer dosage component, the latter being in the form of an envelope over the former. The two components can be separated by an enteric layer which serves to resist disintegration in the stomach and permit the inner component to pass intact into the duodenum or to be delayed in release. A variety of materials can be used for such enteric layers or coatings, such materials including a number of polymeric acids and mixtures of polymeric acids with such materials as shellac, cetyl alcohol, and cellulose acetate.

The liquid forms in which the novel compositions of the present invention may be incorporated for administration orally or by injection include aqueous solutions, suitably flavored syrups, aqueous or oil suspensions, and flavored emulsions with edible oils such as corn oil, cottonseed oil, sesame oil, coconut oil, or peanut oil, as well as elixirs and similar pharmaceutical vehicles.

Compositions for inhalation or insufflation include solutions and suspensions in pharmaceutically acceptable, aqueous or organic solvents, or mixtures thereof, and powders.

The liquid or solid compositions may contain suitable pharmaceutically acceptable excipients as described supra. Preferably the compositions are administered by the oral or nasal respiratory route for local or systemic effect. Compositions in preferably pharmaceutically acceptable solvents may be nebulized by use of inert gases. Nebulized solutions may be inhaled directly from the nebulizing device or the nebulizing device may be attached to a face mask tent, or intermittent positive pressure breathing machine. Solution, suspension, or powder compositions may be administered, preferably orally or nasally, from devices which deliver the formulation in an appropriate manner.

The following formulation examples illustrate representative pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention.

Formulation Example 1 Hard gelatin capsules containing the following ingredients are prepared: Quantity Ingredientfmg/capsule Active Ingredient 30.0 Starch 305.0 Magnesium stearate 5.0

The above ingredients are mixed and filled into hard gelatin capsules in 340 mg quantities.

Formulation Example 2 A tablet formula is prepared using the ingredients below: Quantity Ingredient (mg/tablet Active Ingredient 25.0 Cellulose, microcrystalline 200.0 Colloidal silicon dioxide 10.0 Stearic acid 5.0 The components are blended and compressed to form tablets, each weighing 240 mg.

Formulation Example 3 A dry powder inhaler formulation is prepared containing the following components: Ingredient Weight % Active Ingredient 5 Lactose 95 The active ingredient is mixed with the lactose and the mixture is added to a dry powder inhaling appliance.

Formulation Example 4 Tablets, each containing 30 mg of active ingredient, are prepared as follows:

Quantity Ingredient m/tablet Active Ingredient 30.0 Starch 45.0 Microcrystalline cellulose 35.0 Polyvinylpyrrolidone (as 10% solution in sterile water) 4.0 Sodium carboxymethyl starch 4.5 Magnesium stearate 0.5 Talc 1.0 Total120.0 The active ingredient, starch and cellulose are passed through a No. 20 mesh U. S. sieve and mixed thoroughly. The solution of polyvinylpyrrolidone is mixed with the resultant powders, which are then passed through a 16 mesh U. S. sieve. The granules so produced are dried at 50°C to 60°C and passed through a 16 mesh U. S. sieve. The sodium carboxymethyl starch, magnesium stearate, and talc, previously passed through a No. 30 mesh U. S. sieve, are then added to the granules which, after mixing, are compressed on a tablet machine to yield tablets each weighing 120 mg.

Formulation Example 5 Capsules, each containing 40 mg of medicament are made as follows: Quantity Ingredient (mg/capsule) Active Ingredient 40.0 Starch 109.0 Magnesium stearate 1.0 Total 150.0

The active ingredient, starch, and magnesium stearate are blended, passed through a No. 20 mesh U. S. sieve, and filled into hard gelatin capsules in 150 mg quantities.

Formulation Example 6 Suppositories, each containing 25 mg of active ingredient are made as follows: Ingredient Amount Active Ingredient 25.0 mg Saturated fatty acid glycerides to 2,000.0 mg The active ingredient is passed through a No. 60 mesh U. S. sieve and suspended in the saturated fatty acid glycerides previously melted using the minimum heat necessary. The mixture is then poured into a suppository mold of nominal 2.0 g capacity and allowed to cool.

Formulation Example 7 Suspensions, each containing 50 mg of medicament per 5.0 mL dose are made as follows: Ingredient Amount Active Ingredient 50.0 mg Xanthan gum 4.0 mg Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (11%) Microcrystalline cellulose (89%) 50.0 mg Sucrose 1.75 g Sodium benzoate 10.0 mg Flavor and Color q. v.

Purified water to 5.0 ml

The active ingredient, sucrose and xanthan gum are blended, passed through a No. 10 mesh U. S. sieve, and then mixed with a previously made solution of the microcrystalline cellulose and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose in water. The sodium benzoate, flavor, and color are diluted with some of the water and added with stirring. Sufficient water is then added to produce the required volume.

Formulation Example 8 Quantity Ingredient (mg/capsule Active Ingredient 15.0 mg Starch 407.0 mg Magnesium stearate 3.0 mg Total 425.0 mg The active ingredient, starch, and magnesium stearate are blended, passed through a No. 20 mesh U. S. sieve, and filled into hard gelatin capsules in 425.0 mg quantities.

Formulation Example 9 A subcutaneous formulation may be prepared as follows: Ingredient Quantity Active Ingredient 5.0 mg Corn Oil 1.0 mL Frequently, it will be desirable or necessary to introduce the pharmaceutical composition to the brain, either directly or indirectly. Direct techniques usually involve placement of a drug delivery catheter into the host's ventricular system to bypass the blood-brain barrier. One such implantable delivery system used for the transport of biological

factors to specific anatomical regions of the body is described in U. S. Patent 5,011,472 which is herein incorporated by reference.

Indirect techniques, which are generally preferred, usually involve formulating the compositions to provide for drug latentiation by the conversion of hydrophilic drugs into lipid-soluble drugs. Latentiation is generally achieved through blocking of the hydroxy, carbonyl, sulfate, and primary amine groups present on the drug to render the drug more lipid soluble and amenable to transportation across the blood-brain barrier. Alternatively, the delivery of hydrophilic drugs may be enhanced by intra-arterial infusion of hypertonic solutions which can transiently open the blood-brain barrier.

Synthesis Examples Example 1. (Figure 8) A. Preparation of Intermediate Homovalomer (17) To a solution of (20a), prepared as described in Figure 12, in ethyl acetate with 20 mmols of triethylamine is added 10 mmols of (la) Registry Number 2157-16-6. After lh, the reaction is washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate, filtered, and the solvent removed in vacuo. The residue is purified by chromatography to afford the title product.

B. Preparation of Intermediate Homovalomer (18) A solution of lithium hydroxide monohydrate (2.85 mmol) in water is added to a stirred solution of (17) (0.57 mmol) in a mixture of methanol and THF under nitrogen. After 20 h, the mixture is concentrated in vacuo and acidified with 1 M hydrochloric acid. The white precipitate is collected by filtration, washed with a little water, and recrystallized from a toluene/hexanes mixture to afford the title product.

C. Preparation of Zafirlukast Homovalomer (21a) A mixture of acid (18) (14.2 mmol), 2-methylbenzenesulfonamide (29.82 mmol), 4- (dimethylamino) pyridine (29.82 mmol), and 1- [3- (dimethylamino) propyl]-3- ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (29.82 mmol) is dissolved in CH2Cl2, under nitrogen, and the mixture is stirred for 18 h. The mixture is then poured into 1 M HCI. The separated aqueous layer is extracted with CH2Cl2, and the combined extracts are washed with water and brine, dried, and evaporated. The product is precipitated from hot methanol by water to afford the title product.

Example 2. (Figure 9) A. Preparation of Intermediate (35) Compound (40a) (34.0 mmol), prepared as described in Figure 12, is dissolved in dichloromethane under a nitrogen atmosphere. Di-tert-butyl dicarbonate (Boc2O) (119.12 mmol) dissolved in dichloromethane is added dropwise to the stirred solution.. The course of the reaction is followed by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and stirring is continued at room temperature until the reaction is judged complete. The reaction mixture is evaporated, giving a precipitate that is collected by filtration. The precipitate is rinsed with ether to afford the title product.

B. Preparation of Intermediate (36) Palladium-on-carbon (10% w/w) is added to a solution of (35) (1.57 mmol) in THF and the mixture is hydrogenated at 3.45 bars for 2h. The mixture is filtered through a pad of diatomaceous earth, and the solvent is evaporated. The product is purified by chromatography, using ethyl acetate/hexanes as the eluant to afford the title product.

C. Preparation of Intermediate (37) Cyclopentyl chloroformate (0.77 mmol) is added to a stirred solution of (36) (0.77 mmol) and N-methylmorpholine (0.77 mmol), in CH2Cl2 under nitrogen. The mixture is stirred for 2h, then poured into 1 M hydrochloric acid, and extracted with ethyl acetate. The combined extracts are washed with saturated brine, dried, and evaporated to give a viscous oil. The product is purified by chromatography, eluting with ethyl acetate/hexanes, to afford the title product.

D. Preparation of Intermediate Homovalomer (38) Compound (37) (1 mmol) is dissolved in CH2Cl2. A solution of 10% trifluoroacetic acid in CH2Cl2 is added, and the reaction is stirred for 1 hour at room temperature. The solvent is then removed in vacuo to provide the desired material as the TFA salt. The desired material is then purified from this mixture using HPLC. In the second step, the resulting amine (2.58 mmol) is added to a stirred suspension of oil-free sodium hydride (2.58 mmol) in dry THF, under nitrogen. After 10 min, 1,4-dibromobutane (2a) (1.29 mmol) is added to the dark-red solution. After 30 min, the mixture is poured into 1 M hydrochloric acid and extracted with ethyl acetate. The combined extracts are washed with brine, then dried, and evaporated. The product was isolated by chromatography, eluting with hexanes/CH2Cl2/ethyl acetate, to give a yellow oil, which is crystallized from a mixture of CH2Cl2 and hexanes to afford the title product.

E. Preparation of Intermediate Homovalomer (39) Compound (39) is prepared as described in Example 1. B.

F. Preparation of Zafirlukast Homovalomer (41a) Compound (41a) is prepared as described in Example 1. C.

Example 3 (Figure 10) A. Preparation of Intermediate (60) Compound (70a) (50 mmol) is dissolved in CH2Cl2 and triethylamine (250 mmol) and tert-butyldemethylsilyl chloride (55 mmol) are added. The progress of the reaction is monitored by TLC. When judged complete, the solution is washed with water, then dried and evaporated to afford the title product.

B. Preparation of Intermediate (61) A stirred solution of (60) (673.3 mmol) in CC14 is heated under gentle reflux with a 350-W tungsten lamp and subjected to an air purge by means of a T-tube attached to a water aspirator. A solution of bromine (670.8 mmol) in CCl4 is added dropwise over 4h.

Evaporation of the solvent gives a yellow residue which is triturated with Et2O-hexane. The residue is collected by filtration to afford the title product.

C. Preparation of Intermediate (62) Silver (I) oxide (30.8 mmol) is added to a stirred solution of 5-nitroindole (30.8 mmol) and (61) (30.8 mmol) in dioxane, under nitrogen. The mixture is heated at 60°C for 20 h.

The solvent is evaporated under reduced pressure, ethyl acetate is added, and the mixture is filtered through a pad of diatomaceous earth. The solvent is evaporated and the product is isolated by chromatography, eluting with ethyl acetate/hexanes, to give a yellow oil, which is crystallized from a CH2Cl2/hexanes mixture to afford the title product.

D. Preparation of Intermediate (63) Nitroester (62) (1.29 mmol) is added to a stirred suspension of oil-free sodium hydride (1.29 mmol) in dry THF, under nitrogen. After 10 min, methyl iodide (1.29 mmol) is added to the dark-red solution. After 30 min, the mixture is poured into 1 M hydrochloric acid and extracted with ethyl acetate. The combined extracts are washed with brine, then dried, and

evaporated. The product was isolated by chromatography, eluting with hexanes/CH2Cl2/ethyl acetate, to give a yellow oil, which is crystallized from a mixture of CH2Cl2 and hexanes to afford the title product.

E. Preparation of Intermediate (64) Compound (64) is prepared as described in Example 2. B.

F. Preparation of Intermediate (65) Compound (65) is prepared as described in Example 2. C.

G. Preparation of Intermediate (66) Compound (65) (30 mmol) is dissolved in MeOH and CsF (50 mmol) is added. After 3 hours CH2CL2 is added. The mixture is washed with water, then dried and evaporated.

The residue is chromatographed to afford the title product.

H. Preparation of Intermediate Homovalomer (67) A solution of 20 mmols of compound (66) in DMF with 10 mmols of 1,4- dibromobutane (3a) and 80 mmols of potassium carbonate is heated as necessary and the reaction followed by TLC. When judged complete, the mixture is partitioned between isopropyl acetate and water and the organic phase washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and the solvent removed in vacuo. The residue is purified by chromatography to afford the title structure.

I. Preparation of Intermediate Homovalomer (68) Compound (68) is prepared as described in Example l. B.

J. Preparation of Zafirlukast Homovalomer (71a) Compound (71a) is prepared as described in Example 1. C.

Example 4. (Figure 11) A. Preparation of Intermediate (80) Compound (80) is synthesized according to the procedure described in Drugs of the Future, 1997,22 (10), 1103-1111 and Figure 13.

B. Preparation of Linker Precursor (4a) 2-(2-Carboxy-2-mercaptomethyl-butoxymethyl)-2-mercaptomethyl -butyric acid(2-Carboxy-2-mercaptomethyl-butoxymethyl)-2-mercaptometh yl-butyric acid (4a) is synthesized starting with di (trimethylolpropane), Registry Number 23235-61-2, according to the procedure described for the synthesis of 2- [1-(sulfanylmethyl) cyclopropyl] acetic acid in Drugs of the Future, 1997,22 (10), 1103-1111.

C. Preparation of Montelukast Homovalomer (81) To 2- (2-Carboxy-2-mercaptomethyl-butoxymethyl)-2-mercaptomethyl-b utyric acid (4a) (0.33 mmol) in degassed THF cooled at-15 oC is added slowly a solution of n- butyllithium (0.66mmol, 2.5 M in Hex) over 10 min. The heterogeneous mixture is warmed to-8C for 30 min. Mesylate (80) (0.66 mmol) in THF is added to the suspension and stirred at-15 oC overnight. Aqueous NH4C1 is added and the mixture is extracted with ethyl acetate. Flash chromatography using Hex/EtOAc/AcOH as the eluant affords the title product.

While the present invention has been described with reference to the specific embodiments thereof, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material, composition of matter, process, process step or steps, to the objective spirit and scope of the present invention. All such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the claims appended hereto.

All of the publications, patent applications and patents cited in this application are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent application or patent was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Patent Attorney Docket No. 032367-033 Table 1: Antagonists for Cysteinal Leukotriene Receptor 0 0 0 N Tl fY\ fY T"o\\ HO kNH NN Oh FPL-55712 ONO-1978 Pranlukast Onon ONO-RS-411 SB205312 COONa COONa \ SJ SJ Nez xi MK-571 L-660711 MK-679 L-668,019 Verlukast Venzair /9/~COO-Na+ 0 s , N S "-oN-' w w H CI N H II'I Zaflrlukast 0 Zafirtukast L o Montetukast HO Accolatep O Singulair ICI-204,219 MK-476 L-706,631 Table 2: Activity of Antagonists for Cysteinal Leukotriene Receptors NAME DEVELOPER, LTD4 LTD4 GUINEA LTD4 INDUCED OTHER CLINICAL RESULTS STATUS, BINDING PIG BRONCHO- ROUTE TRACHEA CONSTRICTON CONTRACTION PPL-55712 Fisons IC50 = pA2 = 6.0 Small inhibition of LTC4 Improved lung function in some Suspended 4000 nM induced asthmatic patients Inhalation bronchoconstriction ONO-1978 ONO with pKB = 7.5 26 fold shift in LTD4 Blocks bronchoconstriction after antigen chall Pranlukast Smithkline dose response curve 3.5 h reduction in bronchial hyperresponsiveness, bu OnomTM Beecham after 5 d of 450 mg bid; 7 lung function in asthmatics. Blocks bronchoc ONO-RS-411 Launched in fold shift at 24 h analgesic challenge in aspirin sensitive asthmati SB205312 Japan lung function, symptoms and reduced ß-agonist Oral chronic study MK-571 Merck K1 = 0.2 pKB = 9.3 >83 fold shift in LTD4 Blocks bronchoconstriction induced by exercise L-660711 Suspended nM dose response curve late phase responses to antigen. Improved b iv, oral following 280 mg iv dose function in moderate asthmatics. Effect is a in asthmatic patients albuterol. Improved lung function and reduce mild to moderate asthrnatics.

Table 2. Activity of antagonists for Cysteinal Leukotriene Receptors (Continued) NAME DEVELOPER, LTD4 LTD4 GUINEA LTD4 INDUCED OTHER CLINICAL RESULTS STATUS, BINDING PIG BRONCHO- ROUTE TRACHEA CONSTRICTION CONTRACTION MK-679 Merck IC50 = pKB = 8.8 Blocks bronchoconstriction induced by aspirin. L-668,019 Suspended 3.1 nM baseline lung function in asthmatics by aerosol o Verlukast Aerosol, iv, lung function and upper respiratory symptom VenzairTM oral sensitive asthmatics. Improves lung functon an asthmatics after 6 wks of therapy, but liver a observed in 5% of patients. Montelukast Merck IC50 = pA2 = 9.3 >50 fold shift in LTD4 100 mg causes prompt bronchodilation in mode SingulairTM Launched 0.5 nM 24 h following 40 mg oral which is additive with and blocked exercis MK-476 Oral dose bronchoconstriction 24 h after dosing. 10 mg L-706,631 wks produced a significant improvement in h quality of life, and ß-agonist use. Zafirlukast Zeneca K1 = 0.3 pA2 = 9.5 117 fold shift in LTD4 Effective in blocking by allergen following o AccodateTM Launched nM dose response curve 2 h administration; by exercise following oral ICI-204,219 Oral after 40 mg oral dose; 5 administration; cold air. Provided acute impr fold shift persists at 24 h function, symptoms after 5 or 13 wks in stabl Provided symptomatic improvement inalle

Table 3: Properties of Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists FEATURE ZAFIRLUKAST MONTELUKAST LTD4 Binding Kj = 0. 3 nM ICso = 0.5 nM LTD4 Guinea Pig PA2 = 9.5 pA2 = 9. 3 Trachea Contraction (competitive) Bioavailability 64% Clearance 45.5 ml/min Half-life 10 h 2. 7-5.5 h Dosing 20 mg 10 mg Route of Administration Oral Oral Frequency of dosing Twice Daily Once Daily