Design and synthesis of 6-methylpyridin-2-one derivatives as novel and potent GluN2A positive allosteric modulators for the treatment of cognitive impairment

N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are key regulators of synaptic plasticity in the central nervous system. Potentiation of NMDARs containing GluN2A subunit has been recently recognized as a promising therapeutic approach for neurological disorders. We identified a novel series of GluN2A positive allosteric modulator (PAM) with a pyridin-2-one scaffold. Initial lead compound 1 was discovered through in silico-based screening of virtual ligands with various monocyclic scaffolds. GluN2A PAM activity was increased by introduction of a methyl group at the 6-position of the pyridin-2-one ring and a cyano group in the side chain. Modification of the aromatic ring led to the identification of potent and brain-penetrant 6-methylpyridin-2-one 17 with a negligible binding activity for α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPARs). Oral administration of 17 significantly enhanced rat hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP). Thus, 17 would be a useful in vivo pharmacological tool to investigate complex NMDAR functions for the discovery of therapeutics toward diseases associated with NMDAR dysfunction.