Analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of novel, selective, and potent EP4 receptor antagonists

Prostaglandin (PG) E₂ is the key driver of inflammation associated with arthritic conditions. Inhibitors of PGE ₂ production (NSAIDs and Coxibs) are used to treat these conditions, but carry significant side effect risks due to the inhibition of all prostanoids that play important physiological function. The activities of PGE ₂ are transduced through various receptor sub-types. Prostaglandin E₂ type 4 receptor (EP4) is associated with the development of inflammation and autoimmunity. We therefore are interested in identifying novel EP4 antagonists to treat the signs and symptoms of arthritis without the potential side effects of PGE ₂ modulators such as NSAIDs and Coxibs. Novel EP4 antagonists representing distinct chemical scaffolds were identified using a variety of in vitro functional assays and were shown to be selective and potent. The compounds were shown to be efficacious in animal models of analgesia, inflammation, and arthritis.