Synthesis, biological evaluation, and molecular docking of ropivacaine analogs as local anesthetic agents

摘要

Abstract Two series of ropivacaine analogs ( 4a – 4q , 7a – 7c) were synthesized, and their biological activities were evaluated as local anesthetic agents. Most of the compounds displayed detectable local anesthetic characteristics. Among them, compound 4l showed significant efficacy with sciatic nerve block, infiltration, corneal surface, and spinal anesthetic activities. It was as potent as the reference compound ropivacaine. Dissociation constants of these compounds were 5.9–7.9. In addition, molecular docking modeling on compound 4l and ropivacaine was performed to delineate structural requirements and potential mechanisms for the local anesthetic activity. This study provides valuable new information for our ongoing endeavor to design more potent local anesthetics.