Novel Benzofuran Derivatives Induce Monoamine Release and Substitute for the Discriminative Stimulus Effects of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine.
The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics September 18, 2024 Candace B Johnson, Donna Walther, Matthew J Baggott et al. 5 citations
MDMA is effective as a treatment for PTSD but carries cardiovascular and neurological risks. Researchers tested two new compounds, 5-MABB and 6-MABB, in rat brain tissue and in live rats trained to recognize MDMA. The S isomers of both compounds released serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, similar to MDMA. The R isomers released serotonin and partially released norepinephrine but not dopamine. All compounds caused rats to respond as if they had received MDMA, with effects increasing with dose. The R isomers were less potent behaviorally. The findings suggest the aminoalkyl benzofuran structure is a promising starting point for developing safer MDMA-like drugs.