Vasopressin V1a and V1b receptor modulators: a patent review (2012 – 2014)

Abstract

Introduction: The vasopressin V1a and V1b receptors are involved in many crucial physiological, reproductive, behavioral and social functions. Consequently, they are also involved in several pathological conditions, thus the ligands capable of selective stimulation/inhibition of these receptors may present therapeutic benefit in a variety of diseases.

Areas covered: In this review, the author focuses on the vasopressin V1a and V1b receptors, their biological functions and agonists and antagonists patented in the years 2012 – 2014. This paper is divided according to both the target receptor and the applicant and describes the compounds from the patents along with their biological activity.

Expert opinion: In the recent years, pharmaceutical companies have discovered and patented new compounds which act through vasopressin V1a and/or V1b receptors, both peptide and non-peptide. Among the V1bR antagonists published in the last years, the oxindole derivatives appear to be the most promising drug candidates.

Keywords:

• agonist
• antagonist
• vasopressin
• vasopressin receptor

Declaration of interest

The author has no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.