Synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-beta-carboline derivatives

A series of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-beta-carbolines has been synthesized and evaluated for cerebral protecting effects against lipid peroxidation and potassium cyanide intoxication in mice. Most of the compounds synthesized had potent effects against lipid peroxidation. Among them, 1-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-2-propyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-beta-carboline (22) was found to have a combination of potent effects against both lipid peroxidation and potassium cyanide intoxication. Structure-activity relationships are discussed.