Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 25, 2026

Polygraphic Recording Procedure for Measuring Sleep in Mice
Published on: January 25, 2016
Wake-promoting agents: search for next generation modafinil: part I.
Derek Dunn1, Greg Hostetler, Mohamed Iqbal
1Cephalon, Inc., 145 Brandywine Parkway, West Chester, PA 19380-4245, USA.
Researchers developed novel bi-phenyl compounds to enhance wakefulness, seeking a successor to modafinil. Compound 17 emerged as a promising candidate for further investigation in wakefulness-promoting agent research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Medicinal Chemistry
Background:
- Modafinil is a recognized wakefulness-promoting agent.
- There is a need for next-generation molecules with improved profiles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop novel bi-phenyl derived compounds for wakefulness enhancement.
- To identify a lead candidate for future studies.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of bi-phenyl derived compounds.
- Evaluation of wakefulness-enhancing properties in rat models.
Main Results:
- A series of bi-phenyl compounds were successfully synthesized.
- Compound 17 demonstrated significant wakefulness-enhancing potential.
Conclusions:
- Bi-phenyl derivatives represent a promising class of wakefulness-promoting agents.
- Compound 17 warrants further investigation as a potential successor to modafinil.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
CNS Stimulants: Psychedelic Agents
Cognitive Enhancers: Cholinesterase Inhibitors and NMDA Receptor Antagonists
Drugs Acting on Autonomic Ganglia: Stimulants
Ganglionic stimulants activate NM nicotinic receptors in autonomic ganglia, falling into two categories: nicotine mimetics [e.g., lobeline, dimethylpiperazine, tetramethylammonium] and muscarinic receptor agonists [e.g., muscarine, methacholine]. The first category's action is rapid and blocked by nicotinic receptor antagonists, while the second category's action is delayed and blocked by atropine-like agents. Nicotine, an alkaloid, affects the heart rate by stimulating sympathetic or...
Stimulants
Cocaine can be administered via snorting, injection, or smoking. It primarily functions by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, resulting in a euphoric high characterized by an intense sensation of happiness and...
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Dopamine Receptor Antagonists
Adrenergic Agonists: Indirect-Acting Agents
One mechanism involves depleting stored catecholamines by displacing them from synaptic vesicles. These agents, known as "displacers," are transported into vesicles at the expense of noradrenaline. Examples include amphetamine and tyramine, which lack a catechol moiety, resulting in prolonged action, improved oral bioavailability, and...

