QSAR analysis of membrane permeability to organic compounds

Abstract

A general mathematical model involving partition coefficient, molecular weight and hydrogen bonding is used to correlate the structures and permeability of various organic compounds through the toad urinary bladder and human red blood cell (RBC) membranes. Log P_er (permeability) is correlated with log P_o/w (partition coefficient in olive oil/water, or ether/water), log MW (molecular weight) and H_b (hydrogen bonds). Log P_o/w is the most important factor among three parameters examined. While increased MW always has a negative effect on the permeability, increased H_b can have either a slightly positive or a slightly negative effect depending on the solvent and membrane systems used. Systematic comparison of the QSAR's (quantitative structure activity relationship) of different biological membranes may serve as a useful guide in drug targeting to different tissues and cell types.

Key Words:

• Human Red Cell
• Hydrogen Bonds
• Membrane Permeability
• Molecular Weight
• Partition Coefficient
• QSAR
• Toad Urinary Bladder