EPAC1 activators as HIV latency reversal agents (LRA)

Abstract

The invention relates generally to novel EPAC1 activators, such as Formula I and the preparation thereof as well as the use of EPAC1 activators as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) latency reversal agents (LRAs). ##STR00001##

Claims

1. A compound of Formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein: ##STR00085## ##STR00086## is a substituted or unsubstituted indole of the following structure (Formula Ia): ##STR00087## wherein said structure of Formula Ia is attached to the (C=O) group of Formula I via the 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, or 7-position ring carbon atom; wherein said ring is attached to the (CO) group of Formula I at any available site; R.sup.2 is chosen from H, COR.sup.4, SO.sub.2R.sup.4, (OC)OR.sup.4, (OC)NHR.sup.4, C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl, CH.sub.2Ph, and C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylamine; R.sup.3 is substituted or unsubstituted group chosen from aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, -lactam, -lactam, -lactam, -lactam, and heterocycle; wherein each group is fused with the phenyl ring; R.sup.4 is chosen from H, C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.7 cycloalkyl, aryl, and heteroaryl.

2. The compound of claim 1, wherein R.sup.2 is H or a C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl group.

3. The compound of claim 2, wherein said structure of Formula Ia is attached to the (CO) group of Formula I via the 3-position ring carbon atom and wherein R.sup.2 is methyl.

4. The compound of claim 1, wherein said Formula Ia group is bonded to the (CO) group of Formula I via the 3-position ring carbon of Formula Ia.

5. The compound of claim 2, wherein R.sup.2 is methyl.

6. The compound of claim 1, wherein R.sup.3 is -lactam, wherein the 5, 6-ring carbons of the lactam ring are fused with the phenyl group of Formula I.

7. The compound of formula: ##STR00088##

8. The compound of claim 6, wherein the compound is: ##STR00089##

9. A method of activating latent HIV comprising contacting one or more cells with one or more compounds of claim 1.

10. A method of activating latent HIV comprising contacting one or more cells with ZL0568 and/or ZL06100 ##STR00090##

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

(1) The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.

(2) FIG. 1. Traditional strategy for HIV eradication: shock and killing

(3) FIG. 2A. Assessment of compound ZL0568, an exemplary embodiment of the invention, for the ability to stimulate GFP expression in J-lat cells. GFP fluorescence intensity was measured by microplate reader.

(4) FIG. 2B. Compound ZL0568, an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Compound ZL0568 activated GFP expression.

(5) FIG. 2C. Dose-dependent activation of GFP expression in J-lat cells by ZL0568 measured by flow cytometry.

(6) FIG. 2D. Dose-dependent activation of GFP expression in J-lat cells by ZL0568 measured by flow cytometry.

(7) FIG. 3A. Ribbon representation of ZL0568 docked into CBD-B of EPAC (PDB ID: 3CF6). ZL0568 is shown in magenta sticks. Binding site of EPAC is shown in ribbons. Key interaction residues are shown in gray sticks. Hydrogen bond is shown in purple dotted line.

(8) FIG. 3B Surface representation of predicted binding mode.

(9) FIG. 3C. Gene expression in J-lat cells with or without ZL0568 stimulation.

(10) FIG. 3D. Co-expression of GFP (green) and EPAC (red; Alex Fluor 594) in ZL0568-stimulated J-lat cells.

(11) FIG. 3E. Flow cytometric measurement of GFP expression in J-lat cells stimulated with EPAC-activator (007-AM) or inhibitor (ESI-009). Mock (DMSO) or JQ1 stimulation was included as controls.

(12) FIG. 3F. Functional involvement of EPAC in 007-AM stimulated HIV reactivation in J-lat cells.

(13) FIG. 4. Activation of latent HIV by compound ZL0568 in U1 cells. U1 cells were stimulated with various concentrations of compound ZL0568 as indicated or mock-stimulated (NC) for 48 hours. Reactivation of latent HIV were examined based on intracellular HIV p24 staining (p24%) by flow cytometry.

(14) FIG. 5A Activation of HIV gene expression (3 LTR) in a representative RV21 PBMC on Day 1, 2 and 5 after stimulation. The data are shown as fold change to NC.

(15) FIG. 5B. Activation of HIV gene expression by ZL0568 for HIV 3-LTR for multiple RV21 PBMCs.

(16) FIG. 5C. Activation of HIV gene expression by ZL0568 for HIV Gag for multiple RV21 PBMCs.

(17) FIG. 5D. Cumulative results for activation of HIV gene expression by ZL0568 compared to NC (3 LTR and Gag) (n=9). p<0.005.

(18) FIG. 6A. Relative HIV gene expression in one representative PBMC following different treatments. Fresh and cryopreserved PBMC of the same donor were compared.

(19) FIG. 6B. Relative viral release in one representative PBMC following different treatments. Fresh and cryopreserved PBMC of the same donor were compared.

(20) FIG. 6C. Relative HIV gene expression in multiple BMCs (n=8) after treatments were summarized.

(21) FIG. 6D. HIV release in supernatants of treated PBMC was measured by 1G5 reporter luciferase assay and compared between ZL0568 and NC.

(22) FIG. 7. Specificity and structure activity relationship (SAR) for ZL0568 compared with exemplary analogues (ZL0696, ZL0697, ZL0699 and ZL06100).

(23) FIG. 8A. Cellular toxicity of ZL0568 on J-lat cells. Toxicity was measured as % viable cells at Day 1, 2 and 3 after stimulation at various concentrations.

(24) FIG. 8B. Cellular toxicity of ZL0568 on human PBMC. Toxicity was measured as % viable cells at Day 1, 2 and 3 after stimulation at various concentrations.

(25) FIG. 8C. Caspase-3 and Caspase-1 expression in T cells with ZL0568 stimulation as compared to NC (24 hours).

(26) FIG. 8D. T-cell activation by ZL0568. Activation marker expression (CD25, CD38, CD69, HLA-DR) on T-cells was measured flow cytometry and compared between ZL0568 (10 uM) and NC.

(27) FIG. 8E. Expression of cytokines (% IFN-r, IL-2, MIP-1b or IL-17) in T cells between ZL0568 treatment (10 uM) and NC (24 hours), measured by intracellular cytokine staining.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

1.0. Definitions

(28) For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to certain embodiments and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, and alterations and modifications in the illustrated article of manufacture, and further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein are herein contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

(29) Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.

(30) For the purpose of interpreting this specification, the following definitions will apply and whenever appropriate, terms used in the singular will also include the plural and vice versa. In the event that any definition set forth below conflicts with the usage of that word in any other document, including any document incorporated herein by reference, the definition set forth below shall always control for purposes of interpreting this specification and its associated claims unless a contrary meaning is clearly intended (for example in the document where the term is originally used).

(31) The use of or means and/or unless stated otherwise.

(32) The use of a or an herein means one or more unless stated otherwise or where the use of one or more is clearly inappropriate.

(33) The use of comprise, comprises, comprising, include, includes, and including are interchangeable and not intended to be limiting. Furthermore, where the description of one or more embodiments uses the term comprising, those skilled in the art would understand that, in some specific instances, the embodiment or embodiments can be alternatively described using the language consisting essentially of and/or consisting of.

(34) As used herein, the term about refers to a 10% variation from the nominal value. It is to be understood that such a variation is always included in any given value provided herein, whether or not it is specifically referred to.

(35) As used herein, the term tertiary (3) ring carbon atom refers to where a ring carbon atom of a Het group of Formula I is bonded to three other non-hydrogen atoms, such as carbon (C) or a heteroatom such as nitrogen (N), oxygen (O), or sulfur (S).

(36) As used herein, the terms cell and cells refer to any types of cells from any animal, such as, without limitation, rat, mice, monkey, and human.

(37) The term salt refers to the relatively non-toxic, inorganic and organic acid addition salts of compounds of the present invention. These salts can be prepared in situ during the final isolation and purification of the compounds or by separately reacting the purified compound in its free base form with a suitable organic or inorganic acid and isolating the salt thus formed. Representative salts include the acetate, hydrobromide, hydrochloride, sulfate, bisulfate, nitrate, acetate, oxalate, valerate, oleate, palmitate, stearate, laurate, borate, benzoate, lactate, phosphate, tosylate, citrate, maleate, fumarate, succinate, tartrate, naphthylate mesylate, glucoheptonate, lactobionate and laurylsulphonate salts, and the like. These can include cations based on the alkali and alkaline earth metals, such as sodium, lithium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and the like, as well as non-toxic ammonium, tetramethylammonium, tetraethylammonium, methylamine, dimethylamine, trimethylamine, triethylamine, ethylamine and the like (See, for example, S. M. Berge et al., Pharmaceutical Salts, J. Pharm. Sci., 1977, 66:1-19, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

(38) The terms bioisostere, bioisosteric replacement, bioisosterism and closely related terms as used herein have the same meanings as those generally recognized in the art. Bioisosteres are atoms, ions, or molecules in which the peripheral layers of electrons can be considered identical. The term bioisostere is usually used to mean a portion of an overall molecule, as opposed to the entire molecule itself. Bioisosteric replacement involves using one bioisostere to replace another with the expectation of maintaining or slightly modifying the biological activity of the first bioisostere. The bioisosteres in this case are thus atoms or groups of atoms having similar size, shape and electron density.

(39) The term alkyl as used herein by itself or as part of another group refers to both straight and branched chain radicals, and cyclic alkyl groups. In one embodiment, the alkyl group has 1-12 carbons. In another embodiment, the alkyl group has 1-7 carbons. In another embodiment, the alkyl group has 1-6 carbons. In another embodiment, the alkyl group has 1-4 carbons. The term alkyl may include methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, t-butyl, isobutyl, pentyl, hexyl, isohexyl, heptyl, 4,4-dimethylpentyl, octyl, 2,2,4-trimethylpentyl, nonyl, decyl, undecyl, and dodecyl.

(40) The term heteroalkyl, by itself or in combination with another term, means, unless otherwise stated, a linear or branched chain having at least one carbon atom and at least one heteroatom selected from the group consisting of O, N, S, P, and Si. In certain embodiments, the heteroatoms are selected from the group consisting of O, and N. The heteroatom(s) may be placed at any interior position of the heteroalkyl group or at the position at which the alkyl group is attached to the remainder of the molecule. Up to two heteroatoms may be consecutive.

(41) The term alkylene as used herein refers to straight and branched chain alkyl linking groups, i.e., an alkyl group that links one group to another group in a molecule. In some embodiments, the term alkylene may include (CH.sub.2).sub.n where n is 2-8.

(42) The term aryl means a polyunsaturated hydrocarbon substituent. Aryl groups can be monocyclic or polycyclic (e.g., 2 to 3 rings that are fused together or linked covalently). Non-limiting examples of aryl and heteroaryl rings are phenyl, naphthyl, pyranyl, pyrrolyl, pyrazinyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazolyl, pyridinyl, furanyl, thiophenyl, thiazolyl, imidazolyl, isoxazolyl, and the like.

(43) The term heteroaryl as used herein refers to groups having 5 to 14 ring atoms; 6, 10 or 14 7-electrons shared in a cyclic array; and containing carbon atoms and 1, 2 or 3 oxygen, nitrogen or sulfur heteroatoms. A heteroaryl group can be attached to the remainder of the molecule through a carbon or heteroatom. Especially preferred heteroaryl groups include 1,2,3-triazole, 1,2,4-triazole, 5-amino 1,2,4-triazole, imidazole, oxazole, isoxazole, 1,2,3-oxadiazole, 1,2,4-oxadiazole, 3-amino-1,2,4-oxadiazole, 1,2,5-oxadiazole, 1,3,4-oxadiazole, pyridine, 2-aminopyridine, 4-aminopyridine, 2-aminoimidazoline, and 4-aminoimidazoline.

(44) An amino group refers to an NH.sub.2 group.

(45) A carboxylic acid group refers to a CO.sub.2H group.

(46) An alkynyl group refers to a straight or branched chain radical of 2-20 carbon atoms, unless the chain length is limited thereto, wherein there is at least one triple bond between two of the carbon atoms in the chain, including, but not limited to, acetylene, 1-propylene, 2-propylene, and the like. In some embodiments, alkynyl group refers to an alkynyl chain, which is 2 to 10 carbon atoms in length. In other embodiments, alkynyl group refers to an alkynyl chain, which is more 2 to 8 carbon atoms in length. In further embodiments, alkynyl group refers to an alkynyl chain, which is from 2 to 4 carbon atoms in length.

(47) An amido group refers to an CONH.sub.2 group. An alkylamido group refers to an CONHR group wherein R is a straight chained, or branched alkyl. In some embodiments, R may be taken together with the (CO) group to form a ring, which may be fused with, or bonded to, to a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclic ring.

(48) A dialkylamido group refers to an CONRR group wherein R and R are may straight-chained, or branched, alkyl or may be taken together to form a ring, which may be fused with, or bonded to, to a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclic ring.

(49) The term halogen or halo or halide as used herein by itself or as part of another group refers to chlorine, bromine, fluorine or iodine.

(50) The term hydroxy or hydroxyl as used herein by itself or as part of another group refers to an OH group.

(51) An alkoxy group refers to an O-alkyl group wherein alkyl is as defined above. In one embodiment, the alkyl group has 1-12 carbons. In another embodiment, the alkyl group has 1-7 carbons. In a further embodiment, the alkyl group has 1-6 carbons. In another embodiment, the alkyl group has 1-4 carbons.

(52) The term heterocycle or heterocyclic ring, as used herein except where noted, represents a stable 5- to 7-membered monocyclic-, or stable 7- to 11-membered bicyclic heterocyclic ring system, any ring of which may be saturated or unsaturated, and which consists of carbon atoms and from one to three heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of N, O and S, and wherein the nitrogen and sulfur heteroatoms may optionally be oxidized, and the nitrogen heteroatom may optionally be quaternized, and including any bicyclic group in which any of the above-defined heterocyclic rings is fused to a benzene ring. Rings may contain one oxygen or sulfur, one to three nitrogen atoms, or one oxygen or sulfur combined with one or two nitrogen atoms. The heterocyclic ring may be attached at any heteroatom or carbon atom that results in the creation of a stable structure.

(53) The term alkylamino as used herein by itself or as part of another group refers to an amino group which is substituted with one alkyl group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms. The term dialkylamino as used herein by itself or as part of another group refers to an amino group which is substituted with two alkyl groups, each having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms.

(54) Various groups are described herein as substituted or unsubstituted (i.e., optionally substituted). Optionally substituted groups may include one or more substituents independently selected from: halogen, nitro, cyano, hydroxy, amino, mercapto, formyl, carboxy, oxo, carbamoyl, alkyl, heteroalkyl, alkoxy, alkylthio, alkylamino, (alkyl).sub.2amino, alkylsulfinyl, alkylsulfonyl, arylsulfonyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, and substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In certain aspects, the optional substituents may be further substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from: halogen, nitro, cyano, hydroxy, amino, mercapto, formyl, carboxy, carbamoyl (C(O)NR.sub.2), unsubstituted alkyl, unsubstituted heteroalkyl, alkoxy, alkylthio, alkylamino, (alkyl).sub.2amino, alkyl sulfinyl, alkyl sulfonyl, aryl sulfonyl, unsubstituted cycloalkyl, unsubstituted heterocyclyl, unsubstituted aryl, or unsubstituted heteroaryl. Exemplary optional substituents include, but are not limited to: OH, oxo (O), Cl, F, Br, C.sub.1-4alkyl, phenyl, benzyl, NH.sub.2, NH(C.sub.1-4alkyl), N(C.sub.1-4alkyl).sub.2, NO.sub.2, S(C.sub.1-4alkyl), SO.sub.2(C.sub.1-4alkyl), CO.sub.2(C.sub.1-4alkyl), and O(C.sub.1-4alkyl).

(55) Numbering of Indole Ring Moiety:

(56) For the purposes of this application, the indole moiety is numbered as follows:

(57) ##STR00008##

(58) Numbering of Lactam Ring Moiety:

(59) In general, the purposes of this application, for numbering for a lactam moiety, the nitrogen atom is the 1-position, the CO is numbered at the 2-position and the remaining ring atoms are numbered accordingly. For example, the -lactam ring moiety is numbered as follows:

(60) ##STR00009##

(61) Numbering of the Aryl Group of Formula I Scaffold

(62) In general, the purposes of this application, for numbering of the aryl group of Formula I scaffold:

(63) ##STR00010##

2.0. Compounds

(64) The inventors have surprisingly discovered certain novel small molecules that may be used as LRAs. In some aspects of the invention, compounds of the invention may be used to target EPAC. In certain aspects of the invention, compounds of the invention may be used to target EPAC to activate latent HIV. In other aspects of the invention, compounds of the invention may be used to activate latent HIV.

(65) One aspect of the invention pertains to compounds of Formula I, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof wherein:

(66) ##STR00011##

(67) ##STR00012## is a group chosen from: (i) a substituted or unsubstituted indole of the following structure (Formula Ia):

(68) ##STR00013## wherein said structure of Formula Ia is attached to the (CO) group of Formula I via the 2-, 3-, 4, 5-, 6-, or 7-position ring carbon atom of Formula Ia; (ii) a classical bioisostere of the indole ring; and (iii) a non-classical bioisostere of the indole ring chosen from:

(69) ##STR00014## wherein said ring is attached to the (CO) group of Formula I at any available site. R.sup.2 is independently one or more substituents chosen from H, COR.sup.4, SO.sub.2R.sup.4, (OC)OR.sup.4, (OC)NHR.sup.4, C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl, CH.sub.2Ph, and C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkylamine; R.sup.3 is independently one or more substituents chosen from H; C.sub.1-C.sub.6-alkoxy; OH; halide; NO.sub.2; C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl; (CH.sub.2).sub.nOH, wherein n is 1-8; and a 1,1-dioxidothiomorpholino group; an optionally fused substituted or unsubstituted group chosen from aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, -lactam, -lactam, -lactam, -lactam, and heterocycle; (CO)OR.sup.4; (CO)NR.sup.5R.sup.6; and NR.sup.5R.sup.6; wherein R.sup.4, R.sup.5, and R.sup.6 are independently chosen from H, C1-C6 alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocycle; R.sup.4, R.sup.5 and R.sup.6 are independently chosen from H, C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl, C.sub.1-C.sub.7 cycloalkyl, cycloaryl and cycloheteroaryl.

(70) In some embodiments, the invention encompasses where Het is a non-classical bioisostere of the indole ring chosen from:

(71) ##STR00015##
wherein said ring is attached to the (CO) group of Formula I at any available site. In further embodiments, said ring is attached to the (CO) group of Formula I via a ring carbon or a heteroatom. In further embodiments, said ring is attached to the (CO) group of Formula I via a tertiary ring carbon, or a heteroatom.

(72) In some embodiments, the invention encompasses compounds of Formula I, wherein Het is a substituted, or an unsubstituted group, chosen from:

(73) ##STR00016##

(74) wherein R.sup.1 is H, OH, alkyl, alkoxy, aryl, halogen, carboxyl, cyano, or nitro. In certain embodiments, R.sup.1 is a C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl group. In some embodiments, R.sup.1 is methyl.

(75) In some embodiments, the (CO) group of Formula I is attached to the 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, or 7-position ring carbon atom of said structure of Formula Ia.

(76) In some embodiments, the (CO) group of Formula I is attached to the 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, or 7-position ring carbon atom of said structure of Formula Ib.

(77) In certain embodiments, the invention encompasses compounds of Formula I, wherein Het is a Formula Ia group, or a Formula Ib group, wherein R.sup.2 is H or a C.sub.1-C.sub.6 alkyl group. In some embodiments, R.sup.2 is methyl.

(78) In further embodiments, the invention encompasses compounds of Formula I, wherein Het is a substituted, or an unsubstituted, Formula Ia group, or Formula Ib group, wherein the 3-position ring carbon of said group is attached to the (CO) group of Formula I and wherein R.sup.2 is methyl.

(79) In further embodiments, the invention encompasses compounds of Formula I, wherein Het is a substituted, or an unsubstituted, Formula Ia group, or Formula Ib group, wherein the 2-position ring carbon, or the 3-position ring carbon of said group is bonded to the (CO) group of Formula I.

(80) In further embodiments, the invention encompasses compounds of Formula I, Het is a substituted, or an unsubstituted, Formula Ia group, or Formula Ib group, wherein the 3-position ring carbon of said group is bonded to the (CO) group of Formula I.

(81) In further embodiments, the invention encompasses compounds of Formula I, wherein Het is a substituted, or an unsubstituted group, chosen from:

(82) ##STR00017##

(83) wherein said Het group is attached to the (CO) group of the Formula I moiety via a tertiary (3) ring carbon atom.

(84) In certain embodiments, the invention encompasses compounds of Formula I, wherein the aryl group of Formula I is optionally fused with R.sup.3, wherein R.sup.3 is a substituted or unsubstituted group chosen from aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, -lactam, -lactam, -lactam, -lactam, and heterocycle.

(85) In some embodiments, the 2,3-ring positions of the aryl group of Formula I is fused with a R.sup.3 group. In other embodiments, the 3,4-ring positions of the aryl group of Formula I is fused with a R.sup.3 group.

(86) In some embodiments, the inventions encompasses compounds of Formula I, wherein R.sup.3 is an optionally substituted or unsubstituted ring (fused with the phenyl ring) chosen from aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, -lactam, -lactam, -lactam, -lactam, and heterocycle.

(87) In some embodiments, the invention encompasses compounds of Formula I, wherein R.sup.3 is -Lactam, and wherein the 4, 5-ring carbons of the lactam ring are fused with the aryl group of Formula I. In further embodiments, the 3,4-ring positions of the aryl group of Formula I are fused with the 4, 5-ring carbons of the lactam ring.

(88) In other embodiments, the 2,3-ring positions of the aryl group of Formula I are fused with the 4, 5-ring carbons of the lactam ring.

(89) In further embodiments, the invention encompasses compounds of Formula I, wherein R.sup.3 is -Lactam, and wherein the 4, 5-ring carbons of the lactam ring are fused with the aryl group of Formula I.

(90) In certain embodiments, the compound of Formula I is one of:

(91) TABLE-US-00001 Structure Chemical Name (compound number/identifier) (compound number/identifier) (E)-N-(2-Chlorophenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H- indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0696) (E)-N-(4-chloro-3- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H- indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0568) 0 (E)-N-(3-Chlorophenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H- indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0697) (E)-N-(4-Chlorophenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H- indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0698) (E)-N-(3,5-Dichlorophenyl)-2-(1-methyl- 1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0699) (E)-2-(1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxo-N- (2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolin-6- yl)acetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL06100) (E)-2-(1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxo-N- phenylacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0701) (E)-N-(3,5-Di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-(1- methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2- oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0702) (E)-2-(1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxo-N- (3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)acetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0703) (E)-N-(3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2- (1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2- oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0704) (E)-2-(1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxo-N- (3,4,5-trifluorophenyl)acetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0705) (E)-2-(1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxo-N- (3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)acetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0706) 0 (E)-N-(3-Methoxyphenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H- indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0707) (E)-N-(3-(Hydroxymethyl)phenyl)-2-(1- methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2- oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0708) (E)-N-(4-(1,1- Dioxidothiomorpholino)phenyl)-2-(1- methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2- oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0710) (E)-N-(3-Fluoro-5- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H- indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0711) (E)-N-(3-Chloro-5- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H- indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0712) (E)-N-(4-Chloro-3-fluorophenyl)-2-(1- methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2- oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0713) (E)-N-(3,4-Dichlorophenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H- indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0714) (E)-2-(benzofuran-3-yl)-N-(3,5-dichloro- phenyl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0570) (E)-N-(4-chloro-3- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(1H-indol-3- yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0744) (E)-N-(3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-(1H- indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0745) 0 (E)-2-(1-benzyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-N-(4- chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2- oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0755) (E)-2-(1-benzyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-N- (3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2- oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0756) (E)-N-(4-chloro-3- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(1,7-dimethyl- 1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0759) (E)-N-(3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-(1,7- dimethyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2- oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0760) (E)-2-(5-cyano-1H-indol-3-yl)-N-(3,5-di-tert- butylphenyl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0762) (E)-N-(3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-(5-nitro-1H- indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0769) (E)-N-(4-chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl) phenyl)-2-(4-cyano-1-methyl-1H-indol- 3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0770) (E)-2-(4-cyano-1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-N- (3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2- oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0772) (E)-2-(5-cyano-1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-N- (3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2- oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0774) (E)-N-(4-chloro-3- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(5-cyano-1- methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2- oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (ZL0775) 0 (E)-2-(1-Benzoyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-N-(4- chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2- oxoacetohydrazonoyl cyanide (PW1075)

(92) 2.1. Synthesis of Compounds of the Invention

(93) The description of preparation of certain compounds of the invention is meant to be exemplary of certain embodiments of the invention. The reagents and reactant used for synthetic conversions outlined herein and below is merely exemplary. The invention contemplates using the same or different reagents discussed herein to achieve preparation of the compounds of the invention.

(94) Certain embodiments of the invention (for example, series A1, also referred to herein as Formula II) may be synthesized (see Scheme 1, below) by first generating by derivation of starting material 1, indoles with various substituents. Reaction of compound 1 with one or more reagents, for example, acyl chlorides, sulfonyl chlorides, chloroformates, or isocyanates in the presence of a base, such as sodium hydride (NaH), to produce diversified intermediates 2. Introduction of oxopropanenitrile into compound 2 in the presence of, for example, acetic anhydride (Ac.sub.2O) and 2-cyanoacetic acid will yield key intermediates 3. Amine 4 may be transformed into its corresponding diazo salt 5 with HCl and sodium nitrite (NaNO.sub.2). The addition reactions between 3 and 5 in the presence of a base, such as sodium acetate (NaOAc) to give compounds of Series A1 (or Formula II).

(95) Furthermore, certain embodiments of the invention (for example, series A2, also referred to herein as Formula I) may be obtained by taking heterocycles 6, which may be classical or non-classical bioisosteres of indole ring, with ester functional group as the starting material, intermediates 7 with side chain of oxopropanenitrile can be obtained using a base, such as sodium hydride (NaH) in the presence of a solvent, such as CH.sub.3CN (acetonitrile). Similarly, the reaction of compounds 5 and 7 may be used to produce compounds of Series A2 (a/k/a Formula I) as shown in Scheme 1:

(96) ##STR00051##

(97) In some embodiments, preparation of certain compounds of the invention may involve a coupling reaction as exemplified by preparation of compound ZL0696 (Scheme 2):

(98) ##STR00052##

(99) In another embodiment, preparation of certain compounds of the invention may involve a coupling reaction as exemplified by preparation of compound ZL0744 (Scheme 3):

(100) ##STR00053##

(101) In another embodiment, preparation of certain compounds of the invention may involve a coupling reaction as exemplified by preparation of compound ZL0755 (Scheme 4):

(102) ##STR00054##

(103) In another embodiment, preparation of certain compounds of the invention may involve a coupling reaction as exemplified by preparation of compound PW0175 (Scheme 5):

(104) ##STR00055##

3.0. Method of Use

(105) One aspect of the invention pertains to generally to use of compounds of the invention to activate latent HIV.

(106) The inventors utilized a well-characterized, EPAC agonist (007-AM; a cAMP analog) to stimulate J-lat cells and surprisingly discovered that 007-AM can induce significant HIV reactivation (based on GFP expression), whereas EPAC-specific inhibitor ESI-09 had no HIV activation effect; ablation of EPAC (EPAC1) expression by CRISPR/Cas9 abrogated 007-AM-stimulated HIV activation, supporting a functional role of EPAC signaling in this process.

(107) The inventors also surprisingly discovered that compound ZL0568 causes modest level of T-cell activation (FIG. 8D), suggesting that the HIV activating effect of ZL0568 through EPAC very possibly involves some T-cell activation signaling pathways.

(108) In some embodiments, the invention encompasses a method of activating latent HIV by contacting one or more cells with one or more compounds of the invention, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

(109) In further embodiments, the invention encompasses a method of activating latent HIV by contacting one or more cells with one or more compounds of Formula I, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

(110) In further embodiments, the invention encompasses a method of activating latent HIV by contacting one or more cells with one or more compounds chosen from ZL0568 and ZL06100, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

(111) In further embodiments, the invention encompasses a method of activating latent HIV by contacting one or more cells with compound ZL0568, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

(112) In further embodiments, the invention encompasses a method of activating latent HIV by contacting one or more cells with compound ZL06100, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

4.0 Examples

(113) 4.1. Discovery of a Novel Compound that can Activate Latent HIV in the J-Lat Cells.

(114) The inventors have discovered compound ZL0568, an exemplary embodiment of the invention, can selectively stimulate significant GFP expression in J-lat cells (FIG. 2A), indicating that this compound may be used to activate latent HIV. Dose-dependent activation of GFP expression by ZL0568 in J-lat cells was confirmed by flow cytometric analysis with an EC.sub.50 value of 8 M (in DMSO) (FIG. 2C-D). At this concentration, the compound ZL0568 manifested negligible toxicity to J-lat cells. See e.g., FIG. 8A-E.

(115) 4.2. Involvement of EPAC in ZL0568-Induced HIV Reactivation (GFP Expression) in J-Lat Cells

(116) The inventors sought to explore potential mechanisms or pathways that mediate ZL0568-induced HIV reactivation in J-lat cells. The experiments focused on EPAC signaling. First, to investigate the binding of ZL0568 with EPAC, molecular docking of ZL0568 with cAMP binding domain B (CBD-B) of active EPAC (PDB ID: 3CF6) using the Schrdinger Small-Molecule Drug Discovery Suite was performed. ZL0568 was found to fit well into the functional CBD-B binding pocket of active EPAC. The indole ring and the N-methyl moiety of ZL0568 can form strong hydrophobic interactions with residues V386, L397, L406 and A416 of EPAC. The trifluoromethyl group on phenyl ring of ZL0568 interacts with residues D401 and D402. Moreover, hydrogen bonds are formed between the oxygen atom of the carbonyl group and residues L406, as well as between the nitrogen atom of the linker and residue D402 (FIG. 3A-B).

(117) Next, the effect of ZL0568 stimulation on gene expression in J-lat cells with a focus on EPAC pathway (EPAC; RAP1), PKA (another intracellular cAMP sensor) and T-cell activation pathway (NF-kB; IKK) was explored, and it was found that only EPAC was selectively up-regulated (FIG. 3C), suggesting a potential feed-back regulatory mechanism for EPAC expression by ZL0568.

(118) It was also found that EPAC and GFP co-expressed in ZL0568-stimulated cells (FIG. 3D), suggesting a relationship between EPAC and induction of GFP expression following ZL0568 treatment. To further investigate the role of EPAC signaling in HIV reactivation, a well-characterized EPAC activator (007-AM) (47-49) to stimulate J-lat cells was used and showed that 007-AM could induce significant GFP expression (12.8%; 10 M), which was higher than that by JQ1 (8.97%; 10 M) but lower than that by compound ZL0568 (21.7%; 10 M), whereas the EPAC-selective inhibitor ESI-09 had no GFP-activating effect (FIG. 3E).

(119) CRISPR/Cas9 was then used to knock out EPAC expression in J-lat cells and it was found that ablation of EPAC led to marked decrease in 007-AM-stimulated GFP expression, providing strong evidence for functional involvement of EPAC in mediating HIV reactivation in J-lat cells.

(120) 4.3. Activating Latent HIV in U-1 Cells Using ZL0568.

(121) Whether or not compound ZL0568, an exemplary embodiment of the invention, can activate latent HIV in human monocytic U1 cells was evaluated. In particular, U1 cells were stimulated with various concentrations of ZL0568 or mock DMSO (NC). Reactivation of latent HIV was measured based on intracellular HIV p24 staining by flow cytometry. It was found that ZL0568 could also stimulate HIV reactivation in U1 cells in a dose-dependent manner, based on p24 expression (FIG. 4).

(122) 4.4. Activation of HIV Gene Expression by ZL0568 in PBMC of ART Nave, Viremic HIV-Infected Individuals

(123) A significant limitation for some existing LRAs (e.g. HDACi & BETi) is related to their limited efficacy to activate latent HIV in primary cells (16, 17, 19-21). Whether or not our compound ZL0568 can stimulate HIV gene expression in human PBMC from ART-nave, viremic HIV-infected individuals was assessed using cells from the RV21, an ART-nave, HIV infection cohort at the Military HIV Research Program (MHRP). See e.g., Liu F, et al. Sequential Dysfunction and Progressive Depletion of Candida albicans-Specific CD4 T Cell Response in HIV-1 Infection. PLoS Pathog 12(6):e1005663 (2016). A widely-used method to detect HIV transcription in cells from infected individuals involves measurement of RNAs containing HIV gag sequences. Since this method lacks a stringent selection for polyadenylated RNAs, it does not exclusively detect fully elongated and correctly processed HIV-1 mRNAs. See e.g., Bullen C K, Laird G M, Durand C M, Siliciano J D, & Siliciano R F, New ex vivo approaches distinguish effective and ineffective single agents for reversing HIV-1 latency in vivo. Nat Med 20(4):425-429 (2014).

(124) Therefore, in addition to Gag, a new PCR assay, established by the Siliciano group, specific for intracellular HIV mRNA using a primer/probe set that detects the 3-sequence common to all correctly terminated HIV RNAs was employed. See e.g., Bullen C K, Laird G M, Durand C M, Siliciano J D, & Siliciano R F, New ex vivo approaches distinguish effective and ineffective single agents for reversing HIV-1 latency in vivo. Nat Med 20(4):425-429 (2014).

(125) First, HIV gene expression in a representative RV21 PBMC at multiple time points after ZL0568 stimulation was examined and it was found that ZL0568 (10 M) induced HIV 3-TLR expression on Day 2 after stimulation, which became less significant on Day 5 (FIG. 5A). Focus was then shifted to Day 2 for examining ex vivo activation of HIV by ZL0568 (3-LTR, n=5, FIG. 5B; Gag, n=4, FIG. 5C) and obtained consistent results from different donors. When analyzing 3TLR and Gag results together, it was shown that ZL0568 could significantly activate HIV gene expression in ART-nave, RV21 PBMCs (p<0.005) (FIG. 4E).

(126) 4.5. Activation of Latent HIV in PBMC of HAART-Suppressed, Aviremic HIV-Infected Individuals

(127) The ability of compound ZL0568 to activate latent HIV in PBMC of ART-suppressed, aviremic HIV-infected subjects was tested. PBMC samples were obtained from the well-established HIV infection cohort from the National NeuroAIDS Tissue Consortium (NNTC) with (66, 67). First, feasibility of using NNTC's cryopreserved PBMC in the experiments was explored by comparing the results from fresh and frozen PBMC of the same subject. It was observed that cell viability and RNA quantity/quality isolated from these cells were comparable between fresh and cryopreserved cells (data not shown). Thus, fresh and cryopreserved PBMC from a representative NNTC subject (ID: 8400337177) were stimulated with compound ZL0568 (10 M) as compared to stimulation with mock (NC) or positive controls (JQ1, Prostratin and PMA; concentrations of positive controls were used as previously reported (21, 25)).

(128) It was found that compared to NC, ZL0568 treatment caused significant HIV gene expression, based on PCR quantification of HIV 3LTR at 48 hours after treatment, in both fresh and frozen PBMCs (FIG. 6A). As important controls, PMA and Prostratin (PKC agonist) also markedly activated HIV gene expression (higher than ZL0568), whereas JQ1 failed to do so in these cells (FIG. 6A), which was consistent with recent reports (21). HIV release in the supernatants of PBMC at 72 hours after treatments using the 1G5 luciferase reporter assay (68, 69) was measured and very similar results were found (FIG. 6B). We noted that although the levels of HIV activation in frozen PBMC were generally lower than those in fresh PBMC, the differences among different treatments were consistently detected (FIG. 6A-B), supporting the feasibility of using NNTC's cryopreserved PBMCs in our system.

(129) Compound ZL0568 was further tested in multiple NNTC's donor PBMCs (n=8) for HIV gene activation (FIG. 6C) as well as viral production (FIG. 6D). Statistically significant results were observed for enhanced HIV activation by ZL0568 as compared to NC (p<0.01) (FIG. 6C-D). Taken together, these data provide strong evidence that compound ZL0568, an exemplary embodiment of the invention, can activate latent HIV in PBMC of ART-suppressed, aviremic HIV-infected subjects.

(130) 4.6. Specificity of ZL0568 in Activating Latent HIV in J-Lat: A Strong Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR).

(131) Specificity and structure-activity relationship (SAR) for ZL0568 was determined by synthesizing and testing four analogues (ZL0696, ZL0697, ZL0699 and ZL06100; 10 M). Their structures compared to ZL0568 are shown in FIG. 7. It was found that modification of ZL0568 structure to its analogs substantially abrogated the ability to stimulate GFP expression in J-lat cells, except that the analog ZL06100 with 3,4-dihydroquinolin-2(1H)-one moiety still maintained some potency, but at lower level than ZL0568. These data strongly suggest the specificity of ZL0568 in activating latent HIV and a meaningful SAR for this class of molecules.

(132) 4.8. ZL0568 Shows Limited Cellular Toxicity and Induces Modest T-Cell Activation but No Production of Inflammatory Cytokines.

(133) Cellular toxicity profile of ZL0568 and its effects on human T cells was evaluated. It was found that even at a fairly high concentration (40 M), ZL0568 caused limited cellular toxicity in both J-lat and human PBMC, which was measured as % viable cells (FIG. 8A-B) (cytotoxicity CC50=75 M). It was also shown that there was no preferential induction of cell death signals (caspase-3/caspase-1) in T cells by ZL0568 treatment (FIG. 8C). This possibility was precluded since apoptosis was recently shown to be associated with HIV reactivation (68). Analysis of the effects of compound ZL0568 on T cells showed that ZL0568 (10 M) caused modest T-cell activation, based on enhanced expression of CD25 and CD38 (p<0.001); no significant increase in CD69 and HLA-DR expression was observed (FIG. 8D). Critically, ZL0568 treatment did not induce expression of inflammatory cytokines in T cells (IFN-, IL-2, MIP-113 and IL-17) (FIG. 8E). This observation is intriguing, since recent study showed that only LRAs capable of activating T cells to some extent could reactivate latent HIV in primary cells (21). Overall, these data show that compound ZL0568 manifests a good cellular toxicity profile and induces modest T-cell activation but no production of cytokines.

(134) 4.9. Preparation of Exemplary Embodiments of the Invention

(135) The general synthetic procedures and characterization data for certain embodiments of the invention as well as intermediates used in the preparation thereof is presented as follows:

1-Methyl-1H-indole (ZL0691)

(136) To a solution of indole (3,510 mg, 30 mmol) in 100 mL THF at 0 C., NaH (3,600 mg, 90 mmol) was added. After 30 min at rt, the solution was cooled to 0 C. again, CH.sub.3I (4,260 mg, 30 mmol) was added dropwise. After 12 hours, the mixture was cooled to 0 C., saturated NH.sub.4Cl was added to quench the reaction. The mixture was extracted by EA twice. The combined organic layer was then washed with saturated NaHCO.sub.3 and brine, dried over Na.sub.2SO.sub.4, filtrated and concentrated to give a light yellow liquid as a crude product.

3-(1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-3-oxopropanenitrile (ZL0693)

(137) 1-Methyl-1H-indole (1,000 mg, 7.63 mmol) was added to a solution prepared by dissolution of cyanoacetic acid (648 mg, 7.63 mmol) in 7 mL Ac.sub.2O at 50 C., and then the mixture was stirred at 85 C. for 10 min. After cooling to rt, the mixture was filtered to collect the white solid as desired product ZL0693 (1.02 g, 68% for two steps). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 8.38 (s, 1H), 8.15 (d, J=7.1 Hz, 1H), 7.59 (d, J=7.6 Hz, 1H), 7.31 (dq, J=13.3, 6.4 Hz, 2H), 4.45 (s, 2H), 3.89 (s, 3H).

(E)-N-(2-Chlorophenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0696)

(138) To a solution of 2-chloroaniline (32 mg, 0.25 mmol) in 1 mL H.sub.2O and 1 mL CH.sub.3CN, 10% HCl (0.92 mmol) was added at 0 C. After stirring at rt for 30 min, NaNO.sub.2 (21 mg, 0.3 mmol) in 1 mL H.sub.2O was added. After stirring at 0 C. for 5 min, NaOAc (123 mg, 1.5 mmol) and ZL0693 (50 mg, 0.25 mmol) in 2 mL EtOH/DMF (1:1) were added. The mixture was filtered to give the desired product (84 mg, quant.) as a yellow solid. .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 15.32 (s, 1H), 10.50 (s, 1H), 8.68 (s, 1H), 8.47 (s, 1H), 8.33-8.23 (m, 1H), 7.80-7.54 (m, 3H), 7.48 (s, 1H), 7.41-7.19 (m, 3H), 3.95 (d, J=6.5 Hz, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 180.22, 178.90, 139.44, 137.90, 137.50, 137.19, 130.48, 130.33, 129.32, 129.23, 127.39, 127.22, 126.86, 126.25, 124.52, 123.75, 123.06, 122.52, 121.97, 120.95, 119.41, 118.80, 116.55, 113.09, 112.89, 111.74, 111.34, 111.28, 34.22, 33.95.

(139) ##STR00056##

(E)-N-(4-chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0568)

(140) Yellow solid (99 mg, 98%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.22 (s, 1H), 8.48 (s, 1H), 8.24 (d, J=7.3 Hz, 1H), 7.95 (s, 1H), 7.75 (s, 2H), 7.60 (d, J=7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.36-7.25 (m, 2H), 3.93 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.47, 142.16, 139.65, 137.16, 133.24, 128.01, 127.60, 127.37, 125.15, 124.92, 123.71, 122.98, 121.87, 121.39, 116.95, 115.90, 115.82, 111.75, 111.43, 111.28, 33.76.

(141) ##STR00057##

(E)-N-(3-Chlorophenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0697)

(142) Yellow solid (83 mg, 99%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.01 (s, 1H), 8.42 (s, 1H), 8.24 (d, J=7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.59 (d, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.53 (s, 1H), 7.45 (d, J=5.8 Hz, 2H), 7.36-7.24 (m, 2H), 7.21-7.15 (m, 1H), 3.93 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.67, 144.26, 139.47, 137.16, 134.37, 131.67, 127.40, 124.15, 123.65, 122.90, 121.91, 116.51, 116.26, 115.22, 111.90, 111.54, 111.24, 33.84.

(143) ##STR00058##

(E)-N-(4-Chlorophenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0698)

(144) Yellow solid (79 mg, 94%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.01 (s, 1H), 8.40 (s, 1H), 8.26 (d, J=7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.59 (d, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.50 (q, J=8.9 Hz, 4H), 7.31 (dd, J=15.6, 7.4 Hz, 2H), 3.94 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.73, 141.81, 139.29, 137.14, 129.85, 128.54, 127.45, 123.62, 122.86, 121.96, 118.39, 115.88, 112.04, 111.59, 111.20, 33.89.

(145) ##STR00059##

(E)-N-(3,5-Dichlorophenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0699)

(146) Yellow solid (40 mg, 43%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.08 (s, 1H), 8.45 (s, 1H), 8.22 (d, J=7.4 Hz, 1H), 7.59 (d, J=7.9 Hz, 1H), 7.46 (s, 2H), 7.37-7.25 (m, 3H), 3.93 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.43, 145.13, 139.82, 137.22, 135.30, 127.31, 123.72, 123.34, 122.99, 121.85, 117.19, 115.22, 111.66, 111.48, 111.31, 33.79.

(147) ##STR00060##

(E)-2-(1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxo-N-(2-oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolin-6-yl)acetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL06100)

(148) Yellow solid (76 mg, 82%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 11.91 (s, 1H), 10.14 (s, 1H), 8.41 (s, 1H), 8.26 (d, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.58 (d, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.31 (dd, J=17.9, 9.5 Hz, 4H), 6.91 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 3.94 (s, 3H), 2.93 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 2H), 2.46 (d, J=7.1 Hz, 2H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 180.00, 170.39, 138.95, 137.52, 137.05, 135.76, 127.51, 125.34, 123.49, 122.70, 122.00, 116.52, 116.29, 115.94, 114.30, 112.43, 111.64, 111.11, 33.83, 30.71, 25.57.

(149) ##STR00061##

(E)-2-(1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxo-N-phenylacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0701)

(150) Yellow solid (60 mg, 80%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 11.94 (s, 1H), 8.42 (s, 1H), 8.27 (d, J=7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.59 (d, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.53 (d, J=8.1 Hz, 2H), 7.44 (t, J=7.8 Hz, 2H), 7.36-7.25 (m, 2H), 7.16 (t, J=7.1 Hz, 1H), 3.94 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.91, 142.77, 139.17, 137.12, 130.00, 127.48, 124.78, 123.59, 122.83, 121.98, 116.77, 115.31, 112.15, 111.61, 111.19, 33.89.

(151) ##STR00062##

(E)-N-(3,5-Di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0702)

(152) Yellow solid (88 mg, 85%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 11.95 (s, 1H), 8.47 (s, 1H), 8.27 (d, J=7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.59 (d, J=7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.42 (s, 2H), 7.30 (dt, J=14.8, 7.2 Hz, 2H), 7.24 (d, J=6.4 Hz, 1H), 3.90 (s, 3H), 1.32 (s, 18H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 180.11, 152.25, 142.35, 138.87, 137.02, 127.51, 123.54, 122.78, 121.99, 118.96, 114.42, 112.23, 111.75, 111.26, 111.15, 35.18, 33.75, 31.59.

(153) ##STR00063##

(E)-2-(1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxo-N-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)acetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0703)

(154) Yellow solid (92 mg, 94%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 11.90 (s, 1H), 8.50 (s, 1H), 8.25 (d, J=7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.58 (d, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.36-7.21 (m, 2H), 6.88 (s, 2H), 3.91 (s, 3H), 3.83 (s, 6H), 3.66 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.93, 153.99, 138.95, 138.81, 137.08, 134.81, 127.47, 123.53, 122.77, 121.95, 114.63, 112.19, 111.59, 111.16, 94.30, 60.65, 56.12, 33.65.

(155) ##STR00064##

(E)-N-(3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0704)

(156) Yellow solid (72 mg, 66%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.37 (s, 1H), 8.54 (s, 1H), 8.22 (d, J=7.6 Hz, 1H), 8.05 (s, 2H), 7.82 (s, 1H), 7.60 (d, J=7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.40-7.21 (m, 2H), 3.90 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.36, 144.62, 140.01, 137.18, 132.05, 131.61, 127.30, 123.76, 123.03, 121.80, 117.65, 116.82, 111.52, 111.40, 111.33, 33.61.

(157) ##STR00065##

(E)-2-(1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxo-N-(3,4,5-trifluorophenyl)acetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0705)

(158) Yellow solid (94 mg, quant.). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.03 (s, 1H), 8.42 (s, 1H), 8.23 (d, J=7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.58 (d, J=7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.31 (dd, J=15.5, 7.1 Hz, 4H), 3.93 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.31, 149.50, 139.69, 137.23, 127.35, 123.69, 122.95, 121.90, 117.18, 111.77, 111.44, 111.25, 101.50, 101.18, 33.84.

(159) ##STR00066##

(E)-2-(1-Methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxo-N-(3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)acetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0706)

(160) Yellow solid (86 mg, 93%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.17 (s, 1H), 8.46 (s, 1H), 8.25 (d, J=7.1 Hz, 1H), 7.82 (s, 1H), 7.78 (d, J=8.3 Hz, 1H), 7.67 (t, J=7.9 Hz, 1H), 7.60 (d, J=7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.48 (d, J=7.6 Hz, 1H), 7.36-7.25 (m, 2H), 3.92 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.64, 143.54, 139.56, 137.15, 131.27, 130.82, 130.39, 127.39, 123.67, 122.93, 121.89, 120.72, 120.67, 120.27, 116.49, 113.25, 113.20, 113.14, 113.09, 111.82, 111.50, 111.25, 33.75.

(161) ##STR00067##

(E)-N-(3-Methoxyphenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0707)

(162) Orange solid (80 mg, 96%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 11.93 (s, 1H), 8.44 (s, 1H), 8.26 (d, J=7.4 Hz, 1H), 7.58 (d, J=7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.36-7.23 (m, 3H), 7.15-7.07 (m, 2H), 6.73 (d, J=8.2 Hz, 1H), 3.92 (s, 3H), 3.80 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.92, 160.68, 144.23, 139.07, 137.11, 130.85, 127.48, 123.56, 122.80, 121.97, 115.19, 112.20, 111.66, 111.18, 111.09, 109.11, 101.85, 55.51, 33.80.

(163) ##STR00068##

(E)-N-(3-(Hydroxymethyl)phenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0708)

(164) Yellow solid (74 mg, 89%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.00 (s, 1H), 8.45 (s, 1H), 8.31-8.23 (m, 1H), 7.59 (d, J=7.3 Hz, 2H), 7.39 (t, J=7.2 Hz, 2H), 7.31 (ddd, J=15.1, 9.7, 4.2 Hz, 2H), 7.08 (d, J=6.2 Hz, 1H), 5.34 (t, J=5.5 Hz, 1H), 4.57 (d, J=5.2 Hz, 2H), 3.94 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.94, 144.80, 142.82, 139.11, 137.04, 129.62, 127.52, 123.57, 122.81, 122.58, 121.97, 115.25, 115.02, 114.24, 112.11, 111.53, 111.16, 63.06, 33.82.

(165) ##STR00069##

(E)-N-(4-(1,1-Dioxidothiomorpholino)phenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0710)

(166) Yellow solid (96 mg, 88%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 11.88 (s, 1H), 8.38 (s, 1H), 8.27 (d, J=7.4 Hz, 1H), 7.58 (d, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.45 (d, J=8.9 Hz, 2H), 7.35-7.23 (m, 2H), 7.12 (d, J=8.9 Hz, 2H), 3.93 (s, 3H), 3.78 (s, 4H), 3.14 (s, 4H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 180.06, 145.37, 138.73, 137.03, 135.44, 127.52, 123.49, 122.70, 122.02, 118.20, 117.31, 113.91, 112.56, 111.74, 111.11, 50.33, 47.51, 33.85.

(167) ##STR00070##

(E)-N-(3-Fluoro-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0711)

(168) Yellow solid (79 mg, 81%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.21 (s, 1H), 8.46 (s, 1H), 8.23 (d, J=7.4 Hz, 1H), 7.66 (s, 1H), 7.59 (d, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.52 (d, J=10.5 Hz, 1H), 7.39 (d, J=8.5 Hz, 1H), 7.32 (dd, J=15.9, 7.3 Hz, 2H), 3.91 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.35, 164.78, 161.53, 145.59, 145.44, 139.83, 137.20, 127.32, 123.74, 123.01, 121.85, 117.42, 111.60, 111.42, 111.29, 109.43, 108.06, 107.54, 107.19, 33.72.

(169) ##STR00071##

(E)-N-(3-Chloro-5-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0712)

(170) Yellow solid (79 mg, 78%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.21 (s, 1H), 8.47 (s, 1H), 8.22 (d, J=7.3 Hz, 1H), 7.73 (s, 2H), 7.62-7.52 (m, 2H), 7.37-7.23 (m, 2H), 3.90 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.37, 144.96, 139.85, 137.18, 135.48, 132.32, 131.89, 127.30, 123.73, 122.99, 121.83, 120.21, 120.16, 119.90, 117.41, 111.88, 111.58, 111.43, 111.29, 33.68.

(171) ##STR00072##

(E)-N-(4-Chloro-3-fluorophenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0713)

(172) Yellow solid (84 mg, 95%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.07 (s, 1H), 8.41 (s, 1H), 8.24 (d, J=7.0 Hz, 1H), 7.61 (dd, J=11.9, 8.2 Hz, 2H), 7.44 (d, J=11.1 Hz, 1H), 7.38-7.24 (m, 3H), 3.93 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.48, 159.66, 156.41, 143.43, 143.30, 139.56, 137.20, 131.80, 127.38, 123.69, 122.95, 121.92, 116.75, 114.59, 114.35, 113.70, 111.83, 111.49, 111.25, 105.43, 105.08, 33.87.

(173) ##STR00073##

(E)-N-(3,4-Dichlorophenyl)-2-(1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0714)

(174) Yellow solid (87 mg, 94%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.06 (s, 1H), 8.41 (s, 1H), 8.23 (d, J=7.1 Hz, 1H), 7.69-7.63 (m, 2H), 7.59 (d, J=7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.46 (dd, J=8.8, 2.5 Hz, 1H), 7.36-7.24 (m, 2H), 3.93 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.53, 142.92, 139.56, 137.17, 132.27, 131.83, 127.37, 126.11, 123.68, 122.94, 121.90, 118.32, 116.78, 116.69, 111.84, 111.51, 111.25, 33.84.

(175) ##STR00074##

(E)-2-(benzofuran-3-yl)-N-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0570)

(176) Yellow solid (94 mg, quant.). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 7.93 (s, 1H), 7.86 (d, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.72 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 7.57 (t, J=7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.51 (d, J=1.6 Hz, 2H), 7.38 (dd, J=12.1, 4.5 Hz, 2H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 174.88, 155.47, 150.18, 145.00, 135.40, 129.16, 127.15, 124.64, 124.34, 124.26, 117.58, 115.74, 115.12, 112.41, 111.04.

3-(1H-indol-3-yl)-3-oxopropanenitrile (ZL0743)

(177) Indole (2,340 mg, 20 mmol) was added to a solution prepared by dissolution of cyanoacetic acid (2,040 mg, 24 mmol) in 20 mL Ac.sub.2O at 50 C., and then the mixture was stirred at 85 C. for 10 min. After cooling to rt, the mixture was filtered to collect the white solid as desired product ZL0743 (3.17 g, 86%). The product was put into next step directly.

(E)-N-(4-chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0744)

(178) To a solution of 4-chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)aniline (49 mg, 0.25 mmol) in 1 mL H.sub.2O and 1 mL CH.sub.3CN, 10% HCl (1.0 mmol) was added at 0 C. After stirring at rt for 30 min, NaNO.sub.2 (21 mg, 0.3 mmol) in 1 mL H.sub.2O was added. After stirring at 0 C. for 5 min, NaOAc (123 mg, 1.5 mmol) and ZL0743 (46 mg, 0.25 mmol) in 2 mL EtOH/DMF (1:1) were added. The mixture was filtered to give the desired product (81 mg, 84%) as a yellow solid. .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.18 (s, 2H), 8.46 (d, J=2.6 Hz, 1H), 8.23 (d, J=7.7 Hz, 1H), 7.95 (s, 1H), 7.74 (d, J=9.0 Hz, 2H), 7.53 (d, J=6.9 Hz, 1H), 7.30-7.19 (m, 2H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.97, 142.25, 136.51, 136.13, 133.19, 128.06, 127.65, 126.92, 125.13, 123.64, 122.60, 121.76, 121.18, 117.17, 115.90, 115.75, 115.68, 112.79, 112.66, 111.80.

(179) ##STR00075##

(E)-N-(3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-(1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0745)

(180) ZL0745 (79 mg, 79%) was obtained as a yellow solid following the procedure of ZL0744. .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.24 (s, 1H), 11.94 (s, 1H), 8.45 (d, J=3.0 Hz, 1H), 8.26 (dd, J=6.1, 2.6 Hz, 1H), 7.54 (dd, J=6.1, 2.4 Hz, 1H), 7.40 (d, J=1.4 Hz, 2H), 7.31-7.18 (m, 3H), 1.31 (s, 18H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 180.55, 152.27, 142.33, 136.39, 135.18, 127.05, 123.44, 122.42, 121.86, 118.91, 114.53, 112.83, 112.71, 112.23, 111.17, 35.19, 31.65.

1-Benzyl-1H-indole (ZL0747)

(181) To a solution of indole (936 mg, 8 mmol) in 10 mL DMF at 0 C., NaH (320 mg, 24 mmol) was added. After 30 min at rt, the solution was cooled to 0 C. again, BnBr (1,368 mg, 8 mmol) was added dropwise. After 12 hours, the mixture was cooled to 0 C., saturated NH.sub.4Cl was added to quench the reaction. The mixture was extracted by EA twice. The combined organic layer was then washed with saturated NaHCO.sub.3 and brine, dried over Na.sub.2SO.sub.4, filtrated and concentrated to give a light yellow liquid as a crude product.

3-(1-Benzyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-3-oxopropanenitrile (ZL0752)

(182) 1-Benzyl-1H-indole (8 mmol) was added to a solution prepared by dissolution of cyanoacetic acid (1056 mg, 8 mmol) in 7 mL Ac.sub.2O at 50 C., and then the mixture was stirred at 85 C. for 10 min. After cooling to rt, the mixture was filtered to collect the yellow solid as desired product ZL0752 (1.47 g, 67% for two steps). The product was put into next step directly.

(E)-2-(1-benzyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-N-(4-chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0755)

(183) To a solution of 4-chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)aniline (49 mg, 0.25 mmol) in 1 mL H.sub.2O and 1 mL CH.sub.3CN, 10% HCl (0.92 mmol) was added at 0 C. After stirring at rt for 30 min, NaNO.sub.2 (21 mg, 0.3 mmol) in 1 mL H.sub.2O was added. After stirring at 0 C. for 5 min, NaOAc (123 mg, 1.5 mmol) and ZL0755 (50 mg, 0.25 mmol) in 2 mL EtOH/DMF (1:1) were added. The mixture was filtered to give the desired product (88 mg, 73%) as a yellow solid. .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.23 (s, 1H), 8.63 (s, 1H), 8.29-8.21 (m, 1H), 7.97 (s, 1H), 7.68-7.56 (m, 3H), 7.30 (dd, J=21.2, 7.3 Hz, 7H), 5.58 (s, 2H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.74, 142.22, 139.07, 137.21, 136.52, 133.07, 129.18, 128.27, 127.81, 127.60, 125.16, 123.83, 123.05, 122.05, 121.19, 117.05, 116.22, 116.15, 116.07, 115.99, 112.06, 111.75, 50.31.

(184) ##STR00076##

(E)-2-(1-benzyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-N-(3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0756)

(185) ZL0756 (106 mg, 87%) was obtained as a yellow solid following the procedure of ZL0755. .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 11.95 (s, 1H), 8.71 (s, 1H), 8.36-8.23 (m, 1H), 7.47-7.42 (m, 1H), 7.40 (d, J=1.5 Hz, 2H), 7.33-7.22 (m, 5H), 7.18 (d, J=6.9 Hz, 3H), 5.59 (s, 2H), 1.24 (s, 18H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 180.29, 152.17, 142.26, 138.67, 137.24, 136.33, 129.13, 128.03, 127.88, 126.99, 123.68, 122.88, 122.28, 118.96, 114.66, 112.36, 112.29, 111.76, 111.35, 50.47, 35.10, 31.54.

(186) ##STR00077##

(E)-N-(4-chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(1,7-dimethyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0759)

(187) Yellow solid (49 mg, 47%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.17 (s, 1H), 8.36 (s, 1H), 8.10 (d, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.93 (s, 1H), 7.73 (s, 2H), 7.11 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.00 (d, J=7.1 Hz, 1H), 4.16 (s, 3H), 2.76 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.30, 142.16, 141.14, 135.78, 133.20, 128.52, 126.29, 125.09, 123.09, 122.87, 121.36, 119.91, 117.05, 115.83, 111.75, 110.88, 37.80, 19.42.

(188) ##STR00078##

(E)-N-(3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-(1,7-dimethyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0760)

(189) Yellow solid (35 mg, 33%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 11.92 (s, 1H), 8.36 (s, 1H), 8.14 (d, J=7.8 Hz, 1H), 7.41 (s, 2H), 7.22 (s, 1H), 7.10 (t, J=7.6 Hz, 1H), 7.00 (d, J=7.0 Hz, 1H), 4.15 (s, 3H), 2.76 (s, 3H), 1.32 (s, 18H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 180.00, 152.19, 142.64, 140.36, 135.63, 128.69, 126.10, 122.85, 122.70, 120.04, 118.87, 114.46, 111.30, 37.82, 35.18, 31.62, 19.47.

(190) ##STR00079##

(E)-2-(5-cyano-1H-indol-3-yl)-N-(3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0762)

(191) Yellow solid (63 mg, 59%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.70 (s, 1H), 12.10 (s, 1H), 8.64-8.54 (m, 2H), 7.72 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 1H), 7.62 (dd, J=8.5, 1.3 Hz, 1H), 7.39 (d, J=1.3 Hz, 2H), 7.23 (s, 1H), 1.30 (s, 18H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 180.67, 152.29, 142.16, 138.26, 137.14, 126.95, 126.80, 126.27, 120.62, 119.27, 114.24, 114.09, 113.18, 112.01, 111.36, 104.61, 35.19, 31.61.

(192) ##STR00080##

(E)-N-(3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-(5-nitro-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0769)

(193) Yellow solid (33 mg, 30%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.82 (s, 1H), 12.15 (s, 1H), 9.12 (d, J=2.2 Hz, 1H), 9.04 (d, J=2.3 Hz, 1H), 8.64 (d, J=2.7 Hz, 1H), 8.15 (dd, J=9.0, 2.3 Hz, 1H), 7.73 (d, J=9.0 Hz, 1H), 7.40 (d, J=1.3 Hz, 2H), 7.25 (s, 1H), 1.31 (s, 18H).

(194) ##STR00081##

(E)-N-(4-chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(4-cyano-1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0770)

(195) Yellow solid (71 mg, 66%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.42 (s, 1H), 8.55 (s, 1H), 8.00 (d, J=8.2 Hz, 1H), 7.83 (d, J=2.2 Hz, 1H), 7.77-7.62 (m, 3H), 7.47 (t, J=7.9 Hz, 1H), 3.98 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.72, 142.00, 141.01, 137.82, 133.19, 130.06, 128.42, 128.00, 127.59, 127.18, 125.53, 124.80, 123.44, 121.46, 121.18, 118.83, 116.92, 116.23, 115.87, 115.79, 115.72, 115.64, 111.80, 111.63, 103.72, 33.94.

(196) ##STR00082##

(E)-2-(4-cyano-1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-N-(3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0772)

(197) Yellow solid (79 mg, 72%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.17 (s, 1H), 8.49 (s, 1H), 7.99 (d, J=8.3 Hz, 1H), 7.72 (d, J=7.4 Hz, 1H), 7.46 (t, J=7.9 Hz, 1H), 7.29 (d, J=1.4 Hz, 2H), 7.19 (s, 1H), 3.96 (s, 3H), 1.23 (s, 18H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 180.60, 152.15, 142.32, 140.00, 137.65, 129.77, 125.68, 123.14, 119.21, 118.91, 116.77, 113.70, 112.44, 112.20, 111.21, 103.76, 35.10, 33.92, 31.51.

(198) ##STR00083##

(E)-2-(5-cyano-1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-N-(3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0774)

(199) Yellow solid (32 mg, 30%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.11 (s, 1H), 8.61 (d, J=4.5 Hz, 2H), 7.81 (d, J=8.5 Hz, 1H), 7.70 (d, J=8.6 Hz, 1H), 7.41 (s, 2H), 7.24 (s, 1H), 3.95 (s, 3H), 1.31 (s, 18H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 180.24, 152.28, 142.24, 140.82, 138.71, 127.15, 126.95, 126.32, 120.49, 119.33, 113.98, 112.88, 112.17, 112.05, 111.47, 104.92, 35.19, 34.03, 31.57.

(200) ##STR00084##

(E)-N-(4-chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-(5-cyano-1-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (ZL0775)

(201) Light brown solid (53 mg, 50%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO) 12.29 (s, 1H), 8.54 (d, J=11.2 Hz, 2H), 7.90 (s, 1H), 7.83-7.60 (m, 4H), 3.95 (s, 3H). .sup.13C NMR (75 MHz, DMSO) 179.60, 141.94, 141.35, 138.77, 133.20, 126.98, 126.78, 126.44, 125.47, 121.53, 120.37, 116.45, 115.98, 112.87, 111.76, 111.49, 105.08, 34.01.

3-(1-Benzoyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-3-oxopropanenitrile (PW0179)

(202) ZL0743 (184 mg, 1 mmol) and DAMP (12 mg, 0.1 mmol) were dissolved in dry DCM (5 mL), and the mixture solution was cooled to 0 C. with ice bath. Then NEt.sub.3 (0.2 mL, 1.5 mmol) and benzoyl chloride (140 mg, 1 mmol) were added to the solution. The mixture solution was stirred at room temperature overnight. The mixture was extracted by DCM. The organic layer was then washed by saturated NaHCO.sub.3 and brine. After dried over anhydrous Na.sub.2SO.sub.4, the residue was purified by silica gel column (PE/EA=10:1) to give PW0179 (153 mg, 51%) as a white solid. .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, Chloroform-d) 8.37-8.33 (m, 1H), 8.29-8.22 (m, 1H), 8.10 (s, 1H), 8.06-7.99 (m, 1H), 7.90-7.81 (m, 2H), 7.69-7.61 (m, 3H), 7.28 (s, 1H), 3.90 (s, 2H).

(E)-2-(1-Benzoyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-N-(4-chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide (PW0175)

(203) To a solution of 4-chloro-3-(trifluoromethyl)aniline (49 mg, 0.25 mmol) in 1 mL H.sub.2O and 1 mL CH.sub.3CN, 10% HCl (0.92 mmol) was added at 0 C. After stirring at rt for 30 min, NaNO.sub.2 (21 mg, 0.3 mmol) in 1 mL H.sub.2O was added. After stirring at 0 C. for 5 min, NaOAc (123 mg, 1.5 mmol) and PW0179 (72 mg, 0.25 mmol) in 2 mL EtOH/DMF (1:1) were added. The mixture was filtered to give the desired product (78 mg, 63%) as a yellow solid. .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d.sub.6) 12.34 (s, 1H), 8.44-8.19 (m, 3H), 7.88 (dd, J=9.9, 5.1 Hz, 3H), 7.63 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.57-7.37 (m, 5H), 7.30 (dd, J=8.9, 2.5 Hz, 1H).

(E)-2-(1-Benzoyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-N-(3,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)-2-oxoacetohydrazonoyl Cyanide

(204) Light yellow solid (67 mg, 53%). .sup.1H NMR (300 MHz, DMSO-d.sub.6) 12.20 (s, 1H), 8.33 (s, 1H), 8.20 (dd, J=6.1, 3.1 Hz, 1H), 8.01 (dd, J=6.2, 3.2 Hz, 1H), 7.84-7.73 (m, 2H), 7.62 (d, J=7.5 Hz, 1H), 7.51-7.36 (m, 4H), 7.22 (dd, J=9.1, 1.6 Hz, 3H), 1.20 (s, 18H).

REFERENCES

(205) A number of patents and publications are cited above in order to more fully describe and disclose the invention and the state of the art to which the invention pertains. Each of these references is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety into the present disclosure, to the same extent as if each individual reference was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.