Spirocyclic Scaffolds in Medicinal Chemistry

J Med Chem. 2021 Jan 14;64(1):150-183. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01473. Epub 2020 Dec 31.

Abstract

Spirocyclic scaffolds are incorporated in various approved drugs and drug candidates. The increasing interest in less planar bioactive compounds has given rise to the development of synthetic methodologies for the preparation of spirocyclic scaffolds. In this Perspective, we summarize the diverse synthetic routes to obtain spirocyclic systems. The impact of spirocycles on potency and selectivity, including the aspect of stereochemistry, is discussed. Furthermore, we examine the changes in physicochemical properties as well as in in vitro and in vivo ADME using selected studies that compare spirocyclic compounds to their nonspirocyclic counterparts. In conclusion, the value of spirocyclic scaffolds in medicinal chemistry is discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chemistry, Pharmaceutical
  • Cyclization
  • Drug Discovery
  • Molecular Structure
  • Spiro Compounds / chemistry
  • Spiro Compounds / pharmacology*
  • Stereoisomerism

Substances

  • Spiro Compounds