Pharmacophore-based search, synthesis, and biological evaluation of anthranilic amides as novel blockers of the Kv1.5 channel

The search for novel, potent Kv1.5 blockers based on an anthranilic amide scaffold employing a pharmacophore-based virtual screening approach is described. The synthesis and structure–activity relationships (SAR) with respect to inhibition of the Kv1.5 channel are discussed. The most potent compounds display sub-micromolar inhibition of Kv1.5 and no significant effect on the HERG channel. In addition, good oral bioavailability is demonstrated for compound 3i in rats.