Structural analogues of the michellamine anti-HIV agents. Importance of the tetrahydroisoquinoline rings for biological activity

A series of michellamine structural analogues was prepared in which the tetrahydroisoquinoline rings were substituted with a variety of simple aromatic ring systems. Additionally, the methyl groups on the central bis-naphthalene cores were replaced with hydrogen and methoxy. All the analogues were devoid of anti-HIV activity, suggesting that the heterocyclic portion of the tetrahydroisoquinoline ring is crucial for biological activity.