Synthesis and structure-activity relationships of a novel series of tricyclic dihydropyridine-based KATP openers that potently inhibit bladder contractions in vitro

Structure-activity relationships were investigated on a novel series of tricyclic dihydropyridine-containing K(ATP) openers. This diverse group of analogues, comprising a variety of heterocyclic rings fused to the dihydropyridine nucleus, was designed to determine the influence on activity of hydrogen-bond-donating and -accepting groups and their stereochemical disposition. Compounds were evaluated for K(ATP) activity in guinea pig bladder cells using a fluorescence-based membrane potential assay and in a pig bladder strip assay. The inhibition of spontaneous bladder contractions in vitro was also examined for a subset of compounds. All compounds studied showed greater potency to inhibit spontaneous bladder contractions relative to their potencies to inhibit contractions elicited by electrical stimulation.