Synthesis of new 2-([(phenoxy or phenyl)acetyl]amino)benzoic acid derivatives as 3 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase inhibitors and potential antiinflammatory agents

Abstract

A number of 2-([(phenoxy or phenyl)acetyl]amino)benzoic acid derivatives were prepared in about 50% yield from (phenoxy or phenyl)acetyl chloride and anthranilic acid derivatives. All the compounds were tested as in vitro inhibitors of 3 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, since enzyme inhibition predicts potential antiinflammatory activity in vivo. The most active compounds 3 l, m, s are about 3.5 times more active than acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). Activity is influenced by electronic as well as steric effects.