Effects of dansylated acetylcholine analogs on Schistosoma mansoni

A series of dansylated fluorescent analogs was synthesized and tested for cholinergic and anticholinergic activity in Schistosoma mansoni. The compounds were compared with a previously reported analog, 5-(dimethylamino)-N-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)naphthalenesulfonamide hydrochloride (I). All of the compounds produced some fluorescent labeling of a structure in the head region of the worms. Major differences were not seen among the compounds. The compounds also were tested as antagonists of carbachol-induced paralysis in an activity monitor. Significant carbachol antagonism was seen for all compounds. Effects on the serotonin response also were recorded. Only one compound, a dibutylaminopropylamine derivative, produced striking antagonism of serotonin-induced motor activity.