Glycine transporter-1 inhibitors: a patent review (2011-2016)

Abstract

Introduction: Numerous research groups have developed GlyT-1 inhibitors in the pursuit of providing a novel antipsychotic treatment for schizophrenia. Despite multiple compounds advancing into clinical trials, a GlyT-1 inhibitor has yet to emerge to treat patients. However, the approach remains heavily investigated as it presents potential therapeutic utility for several other CNS and non-CNS-related indications.

Areas covered: This review discusses various GlyT-1 inhibitor chemotypes identified and provides an overview of patent applications filed and published during the period of 2011-2016. The review largely focuses on composition of matter patent applications, although two recently disclosed method of use patents are discussed. Clinical reports are also disseminated.

Expert opinion: Mounting clinical failures with schizophrenic patients have blunted enthusiasm for GlyT-1 inhibition as an approach to treat the disease. However, research in the area remains quite active, as therapeutic potential for several additional indications has emerged. There are numerous and diverse GlyT-1 chemotypes now available that exhibit differentiating modes of binding and ligand-target binding kinetics, and this rich diversity of chemical matter may help further elucidate the target's pharmacological role in various indications and lead to the identification of a compound with optimal properties that may someday become a drug.

Keywords: GlyR; GlyT-1; Glycine; NMDA receptor; glycine receptor; glycine transporter; sarcosine.