(19)
(11) EP 0 000 383 B1

(12) EUROPEAN PATENT SPECIFICATION

(45) Mention of the grant of the patent:
13.10.1982 Bulletin 1982/41

(21) Application number: 78100331.4

(22) Date of filing: 07.07.1978
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC)3C07D 487/04, A61K 31/505
// C07D239/48, C07D239/50 ,(C07D487/04, 239:00, 237:00)

(54)

Pyrimido (4,5-c) pyridazines, their use in pharmaceutical preparations, and process for their preparation

Pyrimido (4,5-c) pyridazine, ihre Verwendung in pharmazeutischen Präparaten, und Verfahren zu deren Herstellung

Pyrimido (4,5-c) pyridazines, leur utilisation dans les compositions pharmaceutiques, et procédé pour leur préparation


(84) Designated Contracting States:
CH DE FR GB

(30) Priority: 08.07.1977 GB 2876577

(43) Date of publication of application:
24.01.1979 Bulletin 1979/02

(71) Applicant: THE WELLCOME FOUNDATION LIMITED
London NW1 2BP (GB)

(72) Inventors:
  • Morrison Jr., Robert William
    Raleigh North Carolina 27612 (US)
  • Mallory, William Revill
    Raleigh North Carolina 27609 (US)
  • Styles, Virgil Lee
    Raleigh North Carolina 27612 (US)

(74) Representative: Berg, Wilhelm, Dr. et al
Mauerkircherstrasse 45
81679 München
81679 München (DE)


(56) References cited: : 
   
       
    Note: Within nine months from the publication of the mention of the grant of the European patent, any person may give notice to the European Patent Office of opposition to the European patent granted. Notice of opposition shall be filed in a written reasoned statement. It shall not be deemed to have been filed until the opposition fee has been paid. (Art. 99(1) European Patent Convention).


    Description


    [0001] This invention relates to pyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazines, their methods of synthesis, formulations containing them and their use as inhibitors of dihydropteroic acid biosynthesis (DHPB).

    [0002] The first pyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazines were disclosed by Pfleiderer and Ferch in 1958, Am. Chem., 615, 48 (1958) but no pharmacological activity was disclosed for these compounds which have the formula (I):

    wherein R is a hydrogen atom or ―CO2C2H5 group. We have now discovered a group of pyrimido-(4,5-c)pyridazines which are useful as inhibitors of dihydropteroic acid biosynthesis (DHPB).

    [0003] The present invention provides novel pyrimido (4,5-c)pyridazines of formula (II), or their tautomers, or salts thereof,

    wherein R1 is a lower alkyl group, a hydroxymethyl group, a phenyl group, a carboxy group, a benzyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with one or more nitro or lower alkoxy groups, a phenacyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with one or more hydroxy or lower alkoxy groups, a lower acyloxymethyl group, an indolyl or indolylmethyl group, a group CH(CN)CH2c6H, optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with one or more lower alkoxy groups, a group CH(Y)C02Z or a group CH2CH2CO2Z in which Y is a hydrogen atom or a lower alkyl or alkoxy group and Z is a hydrogen atom or a lower alkyl group.

    [0004] The term "lower" as used herein in conjunction with an alkyl, alkoxy or acyl group is indicative of the fact that such groups have from 1 to 6 carbon atoms arranged in a straight or branched chain. The expression "phenacyl group" however is used to denote solely a C6H5COCH2― group.

    [0005] It is to be understood that compounds where tautomerism is possible between, on the one hand, a hydroxy group and an oxo group, and on the other hand, an amino group and an imino group, at a particular position in either of the rings of the pyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazines of formula (II), the more stable forms are respectively; the oxo group and the amino group. However, the general formulae used in the present specification do not necessarily represent the more stable forms of such pyrimido pyridazines.

    [0006] The above compounds of formula (II) inhibit the enzyme dihydropteroate synthetase which enables microorganisms to synthesize an essential intermediate in the production of tetrahydrofolate co-factors. Most of these co-factors are one-carbon adducts of tetrahydrofilic acid and they are essential metabolites in cells for the biosynthesis of purines, thymidylic acid, serine, and several other biologically important compounds. Man and other higher animals are unable to synthesise folic acid and therefore they have to obtain them from food which contains the required preformed folates.

    [0007] On the other hand, microorganisms synthesize the co-factors themselves from simpler chemicals. Generally the biosynthetic process first provides "dihydropteridine" (Pt), i.e. 2 - amino - 4 - hydroxy - 6 - hydroxymethyl - 7,8 - dihydropteridine (HMPt) pyrophosphate ester, from its immediate precursor HMPt in the presence of the enzyme hydroxymethyldihyropteridine pyrophosphokinase (HMPPS). Pt then condenses with p-aminobenzoic acid (pAB) in the presence of the enzyme dihydropteroate synthetase to form dihydropteroic acid (DPtA). This intermediate further condenses with a glutamate to form dihydrofolic acid (DFA or "folate") which is then enzymatically reduced to produce the essential tetrahydrofolate. It is in the formation of DPtA from pAB and Pt that the present compounds have inhibitory activity.

    [0008] On the basis of such inhibitory activity the pyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazines of formula (11) have antimicrobial, in particular anti-bacterial, activity.

    [0009] Within the class of pyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazines of formula (II) there is a group of compounds which are particularly active and these have R1 as a methyl group, a phenyl group, a benzyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with a nitro or 2 or 3 methoxy groups, a hydroxymethyl group, a phenacyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with a hydroxy group, or 2 or 3 methoxy groups, a group CH2CH2CO2H, an acetyloxymethyl group, an indolylmethyl group or a group CH(CN)CH2C6H5 substituted in the phenyl ring with 3 methoxy groups, a group CH(Y)CC2Z in which Y is a methyl group, methoxy group or a hydrogen atom and Z is a hydrogen atom, or a C1-4 alkyl group.

    [0010] As examples of compounds which are particularly active and which fall within this class are 7 - amino - 1,3 - dimethyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4;5-c) - pyridazine; 7 - amino - 1 - methyl - 3 - phenyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 1 - methyl - 3 - hydroxymethyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)-pyridazine; 7 - amino - 1 - methyl - 3 - benzyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 1 - methyl - 3 - (2 - nitrobenzyl) - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 1 - methyl - 3 - indolylmethyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 1 - methyl - 3 - acetoxy - methyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 1 - methyl - 3 - (1 - carboxyethyl) - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 1 - methyl - 3 - (2 - carboxymethyl) - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)-pyridazine; 7 - amino - 1 - methyl - 3 - (ethoxycarbonylmethyl) - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 1 - methyl - 3 - ((1 - methoxy) - carboxymethyl) - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 1 - methyl - 3 - (α - cyano - 3,4,5 - trimethoxyphenethyl) - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)-pyridazine; and especially 7 - amino - 1 - methyl - 3 - (1 - ethoxycarbonylethyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine.

    [0011] However, a more preferred class of even higher activity compounds, are those of formula (II) wherein R1 is a benzyl group or especially wherein R1 is a phenacyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with a hydroxy group or 2 or 3 methoxy groups. Examples of compounds falling within this most preferred class are 7 - amino - 3 - benzoylmethyl - 1 - methyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 3 - (3,4 - dimethoxybenzoyl)methyl - 1 - methyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 3 - (3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoyl)methyl - 1 - methyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)-pyridazine; 7 - amino - 3 - (2,4 - dimethoxybenzoyl)methyl - 1 - methyl - 4 oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 3 - (3,4,5 - trimethoxybenzyl) - 1 - methyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 3 - (2,5 - dimethoxybenzoyl)methyl - 1 - methyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)-pyridazine; 7 - amino - 3 - (2,4,6 - trimethoxybenzoyl)methyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; 7 - amino - 3 - (3 - hydroxybenzoyl) - methyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine; and 7 - amino - 3 - (3,4 - dimethoxybenzyl) - 1 - methyl - 4 - oxo - 5 - hydroxy - 1,4 - dihydropyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine.

    [0012] It has previously been stated that in 1958 Pfleiderer W. and Ferch H. (Justus Liebig's Ann. Chem., 1958, 615, 48) reported the preparation of 4 - hydroxy - 6,8 - dimethylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine - 5,7 - (6H, 8H) - dione by the cyclisation of glyoxylic acid ethyl ester - 1,3 - dimethyluracil - (4) - hydrazone. It has now been found that this cyclisation reaction can surprisingly be extended to a novel class of intermediates which have a number of different substituents. Thus the present invention further provides a method of preparing a compound of formula (Il), except those wherein R1 is a carboxy group, or a tautomer or a salt thereof, as hereinbefore defined which process comprises the cyclisation of a compound of the formula (III):

    wherein R3 is a lower alkyl group and R2 is a lower alkyl group, a lower acyloxymethyl group, a phenyl group, a benzyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with one or more nitro or lower alkoxy groups, a phenacyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with one or more hydroxy or lower alkoxy groups, an indolyl or indolylmethyl group, a group CH(CN)CH2C6H5 optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with one or more lower alkoxy groups, a group CH(Y)COZZ or a group CH2CH2CO2Z in which Y is a hydrogen atom or a lower alkyl or alkoxy group and Z is a hydrogen atom or a lower alkyl group and thereafter and optionally hydrolysing the lower acyloxymethyl group to a hydroxymethyl group.

    [0013] Such is the nature of the substituents on the pyrimidine ring of the compounds of formula (III) that, unlike the above prior art teaching, ring closure can apparently only be achieved when the hydrazino nitrogen atom attached at the pyrimidine 6-position is substituted as hereinabove. In other words, when this particular nitrogen atom is unsubstituted, corresponding compounds of formula (III) do not appear to cyclise. Moreover, this cyclisation reaction is particularly surprising since the report of Pfleiderer and Ferch teaches that such reactions only work for those hydrazone intermediates which have a glyoxylic acid alkyl ester substitution, yet a corresponding substitution in the present intermediates results in little, if any, pyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine.

    [0014] The reaction itself may be carried out in any suitable solvent but most desirably a hydroxylic solvent, for example glacial acetic acid, water or C1-4 alkanol, at reflux temperature for up to several days. Optimally, the reaction is carried out in refluxing methanol, or in ethanol at the reflux temperature of methanol.

    [0015] The hydrolysis of the lower acyloxymethyl group will preferably take place under alkaline conditions, for example, by using aqueous sodium hydroxide. The hydrolysis will be carried out at a non extreme temperature, i.e. between 10° and 100°C, and preferably at room temperature.

    [0016] The compounds of formula (III) can be prepared, preferably in situ, by condensing a 2-amino-4-oxo-6-hydrazinopyrimidine of formula (IV) (or a tautomer thereof).

    with an a-keto ester of formula (V):

    wherein R2 and R3 are as hereinbefore defined.

    [0017] The preparation is suitably achieved using the conditions as specified for the cyclisation reaction above, for example by refluxing the reactants in methanol.

    [0018] In the preparation of those compounds of formula (II), in which R1 is a group CH(Y)CO2Z, a group CH2CH2CO2Z, or an optionally substituted phenacyl group, some other bi-cyclic compound may be formed as a by-product. In such instances it may be necessary to isolate the required compound by the usual procedures known in the art.

    [0019] The compounds of formula II wherein R1 is a group CH(Y)CO2Z or a group CH2CH2CO2Z in which Y is as hereinbefore defined and Z is a lower alkyl group may be hydrolysed to give further compounds of formula II wherein R1 is a group GH(Y)CO2Z or a group CH2CH2CO2Z in which Y is as hereinbefore defined and Z is a hydrogen atom. The starting compounds of formula II may be prepared from the corresponding compound of formula (III) as described previously.

    [0020] The conditions for this reaction are preferably alkaline which may be achieved by using, for instance, aqueous sodium hydroxide, and the reaction may be conveniently performed at room temperature for 15 to 150 minutes, for example 90 minutes.

    [0021] Compounds of formula (II) wherein R1 is other than an acyloxymethyl group or any group containing an ester function may be prepared by the hydrolysis of a compound of formula (Vl):

    wherein R2 is as hereinbefore defined or a group COZR4 wherein R4 is a lower alkyl group.

    [0022] The conditions for this reaction are preferably alkaline which may be achieved by using, for instance, aqueous sodium hydroxide, and the reaction may be conveniently performed under reflux for 10 to 40 hours, for example 24 hours. However, it should be noted that during the course of this reaction some decarboxylation may take place, possible giving rise to small amounts of by-products which may necessitate subsequent separation by known methods.

    [0023] This hydrolysis reaction is not preferred for those compounds of the formula (VI) wherein R2 is a group which may undergo hydrolytic cleavage, for example when R2 is an optionally substituted phenacyl group if it is desired to prepare a compound of the formula (II) having identical substituent R1 corresponding to R2.

    [0024] The compounds of formula (VI), may be prepared by the cyclisation of a compound of formula (VII):

    wherein R2 and R3 are as hereinbefore defined.

    [0025] The reaction may be carried out in any suitable solvent but most desirably a hydroxylic solvent, for example glacial acetic acid, water, or C1-4 alkanol, at reflux temperature for up to several days. Optimally, the reaction is carried out in refluxing methanol, or in ethanol at the reflux temperature of methanol.

    [0026] The compounds of formula (VII) can be prepared preferably in situ, by condensing a 2 - amino - 4 - imino - 6 - hydrazinopyrimidine of formula (VIII), or a tautomer thereof,

    with an a-keto ester of formula (V).

    [0027] The preparation is suitably achieved using the conditions as specified for the cyclisation reaction immediately above, for example by refluxing the reactants in methanol.

    [0028] In the preparation of those compounds of formula (VI) in which R2 is a group CH(Y)CO2Z, a group CH2CH2CO2Z, or an optionally substituted phenacyl group, some other bicyclic compound may be formed as a by-product. In such instances it may be necessary to isolate the required compound by the usual procedures known in the art.

    [0029] It should be noted that although, in general, hydrolysis of a compound of formula (VI) results in a correspondingly substituted compound of formula (II) except that the 5-position is oxo rather than imino substituted; in the case wherein R2 in the starting material is a group CH(Y)COZZ or a group CH2CH2CO2Z in which Z is a lower alkyl group, Z in the end-product of formula (II) is a hydrogen atom.

    [0030] All the starting materials specified above for the various syntheses may be prepared by standard methods taught in the art.

    [0031] The compounds of formula (11), or their tautomers, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof may be presented in association with a carrier in pharmaceutical formulations suitable for parenteral, topical, rectal or oral administration. The formulations for oral or rectal administration are advantageously presented in discrete units, such as tablets, capsules, cachets, ampoules or suppositories, each containing a predetermined amount of compound, but may also be presented as a powder, as granules, as a solution or suspension in an aqueous or non-aqueous liquid, or as an ointment or paste for topical administration. For parenteral use, the formulations incorporating an aqueous or non-aqueous liquid carrier must be sterile and be presented in sealed containers. The formulations may be made by any of the known methods and may include one or more of the following accessory ingredients: diluents, solutes to render the solution isotonic with the blood, buffers, flavouring, binding, dispersing, surface-active, thickening, lubricating and coating materials, preservatives, bacteriostats, antioxidants, suppository and ointment bases, and any other acceptable excipients.

    [0032] In another aspect of the present invention, therefore, there is provided a pharmaceutical formulation comprising a compound of formula (II) in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In yet another aspect the present invention provides a method of making a pharmaceutical formulation by admixing the compound of formula (II) with a carrier by known techniques.

    [0033] The compounds of formula (II), for use alone, may be presented in the form of their pharmaceutically acceptable salts. Examples of pharmaceutically acceptable salts are those derived from mineral or organic acids, for example hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulphuric acid, acetic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, lactic acid, maleic acid, or salicylic acid. Acid addition salts which are not pharmaceutically acceptable may be rendered so by a conventional metathetical reaction. Further examples of pharmaceutically acceptable salts are, in the case when R1 in formula (II) is a carboxy group, a group CH(Y)CO2Z, or a group CH2CH2CO2Z in which Z is a hydrogen atom, are alkali metal, for example sodium, salts.

    [0034] Humans an other animals suffering from microbial infections may be treated by administering a non-toxic effective antimicrobial treatment amount of a compound of formula (II), or preferably administering a pharmaceutical formulation comprising the said amount of a compound of formula (II) and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, to the infected human or other animal.

    [0035] The compounds of formula (II) may be administered at a dose range of 1 to 60 mg/kg bodyweight daily in one or several doses.

    [0036] Further advantages of the present invention can be ascertained from the following examples which should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any way.

    Example 1


    6-(1-Methyihydrazino)isocytosine


    (IV)



    [0037] A mixture of 6-chloroisocytosine (17.50 g) and methylhydrazine 27.70 g in water (900 ml) was stirred and refluxed for 3 hours. The resulting solution was allowed to stand at room temperature for 6 hours then at 0°C overnight, in order that the product could crystallise out. The white crystals were collected by filtration, washed with water (800 ml) and subsequently with 95% ethanol (200 ml). Drying under vacuum at 70°C yielded 6-(1-methylhydrazino)isocytosine (11.01 g; 56% of theoretical yield; m.p. 274-280°C decomposition)

    [0038] Elemental analysis: Calcd. for C5H9N5O.O.5H2O: C, 36.58%, H, 6.14%; N, 42.66%. Found: C, 36.42%; H, 6.06%; N, 42.61 %. nmr (DMSO-ds) 8 3.12(s, 3H), 4.47(br, s, 2H), 5.00(s, 1 H), 6.16(br s, 2H), 9.68(br s, 1 H). uv λ max (CH30H) 225.5 nm (E 24,000), 274(17,300).

    Example 2


    7-Amino-1,3-dimethylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione



    [0039] 



    [0040] To a stirred, refluxing solution of 6-(1-methylhydrazino)isocytosine hemihydrate (8.00 g) in water (1 L) was added methyl pyruvate (6.00 g). After 70 minutes a greenish-yellow solid was collected by filtration of the hot reaction mixture, washed with two portions of water (50 ml each) and dried under vacuum at 70°C to yield 7 - amino - 1,3 - dimethylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine - 4,5 - (1H, 6H) - dione (5.11 g; 51 % of theoretical yield; m.p. > 300°C)..

    [0041] Elemental analysis: Calcd. for C8H9N5O2: C, 46.37%; H, 4.38%, N, 33.80%. Found: C, 46.48%; H, 4.42%; N, 33.91%. nmr (DMSO-d6) δ 2.07(s, 3H), 3.71(s, 3H), 7.12(br s, 2H), 10.75(br, s, 1H) pKa values 4.1 ± 0.1; 8.6 ± 0.1 u.v.λ max (CH30H) 255 nm (E 40,000), 299.5 (7,600), 310 sh (5,600).

    Example 3


    7-Amino-3-acetoxymethyl-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione



    [0042] 



    [0043] To a stirred, refluxing solution of 6-(1-methylhydrazino)isocytosine hemihydrate (0.16 g) in methanol (5 ml) was added methyl 3-acetoxy-2-oxo-propanoate (0.19 g). After refluxing for a further 22 hours, the solid formed during the course of the reaction was collected by filtration of the hot reaction mixture and washed with methanol to yield 7 - amino - 3 - acetoxymethyl - 1 - methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine - 4,5 - (1H, 6H) - dione (0.107 g; 40% of theoretical yield; m.p. > 280°C).

    [0044] Elemental analysis: Calcd. for C10H11N5O4: C, 45.28%; H, 4.18%; N, 26.41 %. Found: C, 45.11 %; H, 4.24%; N, 26.37%. nmr (CF3COOH) 8 2.32(s, 3H), 4.27(s, 3H), 5.51 (s, 2H), 7.25(br s, 2H). uv λ max (CH30H) 258 nm (E 37,100), 299.5(7,400).

    Example 4


    7-Amino-3-hydroxymethyl-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione Sodium Salt



    [0045] 



    [0046] To 7-amino-3-acetoxymethyl-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione (0.100 g) in water (1 ml) was added dropwise with shaking 10% (w/w) aqueous sodium hydroxide (0.25 ml), the orange solution becoming quickly cloudy. The mixture was allowed to stand at room temperature for 30 minutes after which time the off-white granular solid which had formed was collected by filtration, rinsed well with methanol and dried under vacuum at room temperature to yield 7 - amino - 3 - hydroxymethyl - 1 - methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine - 4,5 - (1H, 6H) - dione as its sodium salt (0.082 g; 81 % of theoretical yield; m.p. >300°C).

    [0047] Elemental analysis: Calcd. for C8H8N5NaO3.H2O: C, 36.50%; H, 3.83%; N, 26.61%; Na, 8.73; Found: C, 36.55%; H, 3.9 1 %; N, 26.50%, Na, 8.70. nmr (TFA) 8 4.29(s, 3H), 5.19(s, 2H), 7.20(br s, 2H). uv A max (0.1 N HCI) 255 nm (E 39,400), 299(7,200).

    Example 5


    7-Amino-3-(1-ethoxycarbonylethyl)-1-rnethylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H,6H)-dione



    [0048] 



    [0049] To a stirred, refluxing solution of 6-(1-methylhydrazino)isocytosine hemihydrate (1.86 g) in water (120 ml) was added diethyl 3-methyl-2-oxo-succinate (4.59 g). After refluxing for a further 3 hours, the solid formed during the course of the reaction was collected by filtration of the hot reaction mixture, washed with two portions of water (20 ml each) and dried under vacuum at 70°C to yield 7 - amino - 3 - (1 - ethoxycarbonylethyl) - 1 - methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine - 4,5 - (1H, 6H) - dione (1.93 g; 58% theoretical yield; m.p. >280°C).

    [0050] Elemental analysis: Calcd. for C12H15NsO4: C, 49.14%; H, 5.16%; N, 23.88%. Found: C, 49.10%; H, 5.18%; N, 23.62%. nmr (CF3COOH) 8 1.38 (t, 3H), 1.77(d, 3H), 4.28(s, 3H), 4.41 (q, 3H), 7.17(br s, 2H). uv A max (CH30H) 257 nm (E 41,100), 299.5(7,400), 310 sh (5,600).

    Example 6


    7-Amino-3-(1-carboxyethyl)-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione Disodium Salt



    [0051] 



    [0052] A. A mixture of 7-amino-3-(1-ethoxycarbonylethyl)-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione (2.97 g) in 10% (w/w) aqueous sodium hydroxide (67 ml) was swirled vigorously for 25 minutes. Although a complete solution was not obtained during the agitation, a solid began to precipitate after 20 minutes. The mixture was then allowed to stand at room temperature for 1 hour before being chilled at 0°C for 1½ hours to allow complete precipitation of the product. The precipitate was collected by filtration, washed with three portions of 95% ethanol (25 ml each) and dried overnight at room temperature in a vacuum desiccator to yield 7 - amino - 3 - (1 - carboxyethyl) - 1 - methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine - 4,5 - (1H, 6H) - dione disodium salt (2.42 g; 70% of theoretical yield; m.p. > 300°C; hygroscopic crystals).

    [0053] Elemental analysis: Calcd. for C10H9N5Na2O4.O.5H2O: C, 37.74%; H, 3.17%; N, 22.01%; Na, 14.45%. Found: C, 37.69%; H, 3.21 %; N, 22.05%; Na, 16.44%. nmr (CF3COOH) δ 1.81 (d, 3H), 4.30 (s,3H),4.45(q, 1 H), 7.17 (brs, 2H). uv λ max (0.1 N HCI) 255 nm (ε 41,500), 301 (7,800).

    [0054] B. The 3―CH2CH2CO2H compound (disodium salt) was prepared in a manner similar to that of 6A from the 3―CH2CH2CO2H starting material except that collected precipitated solid was washed with CH30H, yield 82%. Calcd. for C10H9N5Na2O4.4CH3OH.O.4H2O: C, 37.94%; H, 3.49%; N, 21.27%; Na, 13.97%. Found: C, 37.91%; H, 3.21%; N, 21.36%; Na, 13.99%.

    [0055] C. The 3―CH(OCH3)CO2H compound (disodium salt) was prepared in a manner similar to that of 6A from the 3―CH(OCH3)CO2C2H5 starting material, yield 69%. Calcd. for C10H9N5Na2O5: C, 36.93%; H, 2.79%; N, 21.54%; Na, 14.14%. Found: C, 36.70%; H, 2.92%; N, 21.38%; Na, 14.01%.

    Example 7


    3-Carbomethoxy-5,7-diamino-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazin-4(1H)-one



    [0056] 



    [0057] To a stirred mixture of 2,4-diamino-6-(1-methylhydrazino)pyrimidine (0.77 g) in a hydrous methanol (50 ml) was added diethyl ketomalonate (1.16 g) at room temperature. An orange solution resulted as the mixture was heated to reflux over a five minute period. After a further 72 hours of refluxing, the crude product which had separated out was collected by suction filtration of the hot mixture, washed with methanol and dried under reduced pressure at 70°C to give a pale yellow solid (0.80 g; m.p. 272-274°C). Recrystallisation of 0.70 g of this solid from methanol yielded pure pale yellow 3 - carboxymethoxy - 5,7 - diamino - 1 - methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazin - 4(1H) - one (0.55 g; m.p. 274-276°C).

    [0058] Elemental analysis: Calcd. for C9H10N6O3: C, 43.20%; H, 4.03%; N, 33.59%; Found: C, 43.12%; H, 4.05%; N, 33.54%. nmr (DMSO-d6) δ 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.82 (s, 3H), 7.07 (br s, 2H) 7.90(br d, 1 H, J = 4Hz), 8.80(br d, 1 H, J = 4Hz). uv (CH3OH) A max 288 nm (E 15,200), 255.5 (30,300) 261 sh (29,000), 313(8,700).

    Example 8


    7-Amino-3-carboxy-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione Disodium Salt



    [0059] 



    [0060] A mixture of 3 - carbomethoxy - 5,7 - diamino - 1 - methylpyrimido(4,5 - c)pyridazine - 4 - (1H) - one (0.250 g) in 4N aqueous sodium hydroxide (12.5 ml) was stirred at reflux for 2½ hours and then allowed to stand at room temperature for 1 hour before being filtered. The collected white solid was recrystallised twice from water/methanol, dried under vacuum at 70°C, and allowed to air-equilibrate to give 7 - amino - 3 - carboxy - 1 - methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine - 4,5 - (1H, 6H) - dione as its disodium salt (0.146 g; 45% of theoretical yield; m.p. > 300°C).

    [0061] Elemental analysis: Calcd. for C8H5N5O4Na2.2.25H2O: C, 29.87%; H, 2.98%; N, 21.77%; Na 14.29%; nmr (CF3COOH) 8 4.30(s, 3H) 7.12(br s, 2H). uv λ max (pH 2), 266.6 nm (E 45,700), 314.5(6,300).

    Example 9


    5,7-Diamino-1,3-dimethylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4(1H)-one



    [0062] 



    [0063] To a refluxing solution of 2,4-diamino-6-(1-methylhydrazino)pyrimidine (500 mg) in anhydrous methanol (15 ml) was added methyl pyruvate (496 mg) over a five minute period. Reflux was continued for 5 hours after which time the solid which had separated was collected by suction filtration of the hot mixture, washed with methanol, and dried under vacuum at 70°C to yield tan crystals of 5,7 - diamino - 1,3 - dimethylpyrimido(4,5-c) - pyridazine - 4(1H) - one (508 mg; 76% of theoretical yield; m.p. > 275°C).

    [0064] Elemental analysis: Calcd. for C8H10N6O: C, 46.59%; H, 4.89%; N, 40.76%. Found: C, 46.66%, H, 4.98%; N, 40.69. nmr (DMSO-d6) δ 2.14(s, 3H), 3.74(s, 3H), 6.84(br s, 2H)*, 7.72(br d, 1 H, J = 4Hz)*, 8.96(br, d, 1H, J = 4Hz)*, uv A max (CH30H) 222 nm (E 12,800), 247(31,100), 306 (11,600).

    Example 10


    7-Amino-1,3-dimethylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H,6H)-dione



    [0065] 



    [0066] A mixture of 5,7-diamino-1,3-dimethylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4-(1H)-one (0.50 g) and 1.5N aqueous sodium hydroxide (35 ml) was stirred at reflux for 24 hours after which time a small amount of solid was removed by filtration of the hot mixture. On cooling, the yellow filtrate deposited white needles which were collected by filtration and dissolved in warm water (20 ml). Adjustment of this aqueous solution to pH 5 by dropwise addition of 6N hydrochloric acid and subsequent cooling to room temperature provided a very finely divided white precipitate which was collected, washed with water and dried under vacuum at 70°C to give 7 - amino - 1,3 - dimethylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine - 4,5 - (1H, 6H)- dione (0.38 g; 76% of theoretical yield). The u.v., i.r., and n.m.r. spectra of this compound were identical to those of the sample made according to the procedure of Example 2.

    Example 11



    [0067] Adopting the general procedure of Example 2, that is to say, addition of the appropriate α-ketoester of formula (V) to a refluxing mixture or solution prepared from a very pure, appropriately substituted alkylhydrazino isocytosine of formula (IV) and filtered solvent in the proportion of 1 g in 100 ml, collected by filtration of the precipitated compound of formula (II) from the hot reaction mixture washing with a small portion of fresh reaction solvent and drying under vacuum at 70°C, the following compounds of formula (II) were prepared:

    * = exchangeable with D20.




    Example 12


    7-Amino-3-phenacyl-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione



    [0068] 



    [0069] To a stirred, refluxing mixture of 6-(1-methylhydrazino)isocytosine hemihydrate (1.00 g) in methanol (100 ml) was added ethyl benzoylpyruvate (2.01 g). After 67 hours yellowish-brown solid was collected from the hot reaction mixture, washed with three portions of methanol totalling 20 ml, and dried under vacuum at 75°C, yield 0.130 g (7%): m.p. > 300°; nmr (CF3COOH) 8 4.28 (s, 3H), 4.87(s, 2H), 7.17(br s, 2H), 7.4-8.3(m, 5H); uv λ max (CH3OH) 259 nm (E 44,900), 301 (8,300), 310 sh (6,900), 375 sh (900). Mass spectrum (240°): M, m/e 311, 17%; m/e 166, 1%; m/e 105, 100%. The following accurate mass was determined 166.0487 (C6H6N4O2).

    [0070] Anal. Calcd. for C15H13N5O3: C, 57.87%; H, 4.21%; N, 22.50%: Found: C, 57.80%; H, 4.26%; N, 22.46%.

    Example 13


    7-Amino-3-(3-hydroxyphenacyl)-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione



    [0071] 



    [0072] Adopting the general procedure of Example 12, the above compound was synthesized and isolated.

    [0073] Reaction time of 22 hours. Yield 7%: m.p. 290-295° dec; nmr (CF3COOH) 8 4.28 (s, 3H), 4.83 (s, 2H), 7.16(br, s, 2H), 7.4-8.0(m, 4H); uv λ max (CH30H) 213.5 nm (E 26.300), 259(47,400), 303(10,600), 309 sh (9,700).

    [0074] Anal. Calcd, for C15H13N5O4.O.5H2O: C, 43.16%; H, 5.55%; N, 16.78%. Found: C, 43.15%; H, 5.59%; N, 16.83%.

    Example 14


    7-Amino-3-(2,4,6-trimethoxyphenacyl)-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione



    [0075] 



    [0076] Adopting the general procedures of Example 12, the above compound was synthesized and isolated.

    [0077] Reaction time of 19½ hours. Yield 5%: m.p. 280° dec; nmr (CF3COOH) 8 4.18, 4.24 and 4.25 (overlapping s's, 12H), 4.96(s, 2H), 6.52(s, 2H), 7.22(br s, 2H); uv λ max (CH30H) 258 nm (E 37,500), 296.5 sh (12,700), 311.5 sh (9,800).

    [0078] Anal. Calcd. for C18H19N5O6: C, 53.86%; H, 4.77%; N, 17.45%. Found: C, 53.68%; H, 4.81%; N, 17.46%.

    Example 15


    7-Amino-3-(2,5-dimethoxyphenacyl)-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione



    [0079] 



    [0080] To a stirred, refluxing mixture of 6-(1-methylhydrazino)isocytosine hemihydrate (4.00 g) in methanol (400 ml) was added methyl 2,5-dimethoxybenzoylpyruvate (7.14 g). After 19 hours reddish- orange solid was collected from the hot mixture, washed with two portions of methanol totalling 50 ml, and dried under vacuum at 75°C to yield 0.628 g. This solid was an inseparable 1:1 mixture of the desired 4,5-dione and its 3,5-dione isomer.

    [0081] The filtrate was refluxed an additional 22.5 hours, and pale yellow solid was collected from the hot mixture, washed with several portions of methanol totalling 30 ml, and dried under vacuum at 75°, yield 0.09 g of the 4,5-dione isomer (1%): m.p. > 300°; nmr (CF3COOH) 8 4.02(s, 3H), 4.07(s, 3H), 4.28(s, 3H), 4.90(s, 2H), 6.8-7.7(m, 5H); uv λ max (CH30H) 223 nm weak sh (ε 22,800), 258.5(48,500), 302.5(10,000), 311.5 sh (9,000), 332.5 sh (5,500).

    [0082] Anal. Calcd. for C17H17N5O,: C, 54.98%; H, 4.61%; N, 18.86%. Found: C 54.68%; H, 4.64%; N, 19.03%.

    Example 16


    7-Amino-3-(2,4-dimethoxyphenacyl)-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione



    [0083] 



    [0084] Following the general procedure of Example 15, the above compound was synthesised and isolated.

    [0085] A 2:1 mixture of 4,5-dione and 3,5-dione isomers, respectively, was collected after 18 hours. The filtrate was refluxed an additional 47 hours for a 9% yield of 4,5-dione isomer: m.p. 290-300° dec; nmr (CF3COOH) δ 4.02 and 4.06 overlapping s's, (6H), 4.27(s, 3H), 4.84(s, 2H), 6.6-8.2(m, 5H); uv λ max (CH30H) 227.5 nm (E 20,200), 259.5 (40,700), 304(17,400), 413(2,800), 435(2,700), 460(2,900).

    [0086] Anal Cald. for C17H17N5O5: C, 54.98%; H, 4.61%; N, 18.86%. Found C, 54.97%; H, 4.69%; N, 18.98%.

    Example 17


    7-Amino-3-(3,4-dimethoxyphenacyl)-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-clpyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione



    [0087] 



    [0088] Following the general procedure of Example 15, the above compound was synthesized and isolated.

    [0089] An insoluble mixture was collected after 17 hours. The filtrate was refluxed an additional 47 hours for a 2% yield of 4,5-dione isomer: m.p. > 300°; nmr (CF3COOH) δ 4.04 and 4.08 (overlapping s's 6H), 4.28(s, 3H), 4.83 (s, 2H), 7.0-7.4(m, 3H), 7.7-8.2(m, 2H); uv λ max (CH30H) 229 nm (E 23,300), 259 (42.000), 274 sh (22,200), 304(18.700)

    [0090] Anal. Calcd. for C17H17N5O5.O.1H2O: C, 54.72%; H, 4.65%; N, 18.77%. Found: C, 54.71%; H, 4.68%; N, 18.71%.

    Example18


    7-Amino-3-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenacyl)-1-methylpyrimido(4,5-c)pyridazine-4,5-(1H, 6H)-dione



    [0091] 



    [0092] Following the general procedure of Example 15, the above compound was synthesized and isolated.

    [0093] A 1:1 mixture of 4,5-dione and 3,5-dione isomers, respectively, was collected after 18t hours. The filtrate was refluxed an additional 23 hours for a 2% yield of 4,5-dione isomer: m.p. > 300°; nmr (CF3CGOOH) δ 4.07 and 4.13 (overlapping s's 9H), 4.30(s, 3H), 4.86(s, 2H), 7.18(br s, 2H), 7.54(s, 2H); uv λ max (CH3OH) 213 nm (E 32,500), 258.5(43.700), 297 sh (17,200) 310 sh (13,700). Mass spectrum (250°): M, m/e 401, 7%; m/e 195, 100%; m/e 166, 2%. The following accurate mass was determined: 166.0488 (C6H6N4O2).

    [0094] Anal. Calcd. for C18H19N5O6: C, 53.86%; H, 4.77% N, 17.45%. Found: C, 53.82%; H, 4.85%; N, 17.55%.

    Example 19



    [0095] Potential inhibitors of DHPB synthesis may be tested by investigating the inhibitory effect they impose in the enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of dihydropteroic acid (DPtA), namely hydroxymethyldihydropteridine pyrophosphokinase (HMPPS), and dihydropteroate synthetase, hereinafter referred to as "synthetase." In the following reaction equations the compounds are referred to by their abbreviated forms defined hereinbefore in the specification.





    [0096] This reaction requires two enzymes since the starting substrates are H2PtCH2OH, ATP, and pAB, and the products are H2pteroate and AMP. In crude extracts of E. coli (and the 0-50% ammonium sulfate fraction used by us) the first enzyme, 2 - amino - 4 - hydroxy - 6 - hydroxymethyl - 7,8 - dihydropteridine pyrophosphokinase ("kinase"), has a threefold lower specific activity that the second enzyme, dihydropteroate synthetase ("synthetase").

    [0097] The reactions are followed by determining the amount of 14C in H2pteroate after separation from the substrate, p-aminobenzoate-7-14C, by paper chromatography.

    [0098] The following results were obtained by the coupled assay method.






    Claims

    1 1. A compound of the formula (II):

    or a tautomer, or salt thereof, wherein R1 is a lower (C1-6) alkyl group, a hydroxymethyl group, a phenyl group, a carboxy group, a benzyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with one or more nitro or lower (C1-6) alkoxy groups, a phenacyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with one or more hydroxy or lower (C1-6) alkoxy groups, a lower (C1-6) acyloxymethyl group, an indolyl or indolyl methyl group, a group CH(CN)CH2C6H5 optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with one or more lower (C1-6) alkoxy groups, a group CH(Y)CO2Z or a group CH2CH2CO2Z in which Y is a hydrogen atom or a lower (C1-6) alkyl or alkoxy group and Z is a hydrogen atom or a lower (C1-6) alkyl group.
     
    2. A compound according to claim 1 wherein R1 is a methyl group, a phenyl group, a benzyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with a nitro or 2 or 3 methoxy groups, a hydroxymethyl group, a phenacyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with a hydroxy group or 2 or 3 methoxy groups, a group CH2CH2CO2H, an acetyloxymethyl group, an indolylmethyl group, a group CH(CN)CH2C6H5 substituted in the phenyl ring with 3 methoxy groups, or a group CH(Y)C02Z in which Y is a methyl group, methoxy group or a hydrogen atom and Z is a hydrogen atom or a C1-4 alkyl group.
     
    3. A compound according to either claim 1 or 2 wherein R1 is a benzyl group or a phenacyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with a hydroxy group or 2 or 3 methoxy groups.
     
    4. Pharmaceutical composition which comprises a compound of the formula (II), as defined in any one of claims 1 to 3, in conjunction with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
     
    5. A method of making a pharmaceutical composition, as defined in claim 4, which comprises admixing the compound of formula (II) with a carrier.
     
    6. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 4 in unit dose form.
     
    7. A process for the preparation of a compound of the formula (II) except those wherein R1 is a carboxy group, or a tautomer or salt thereof, as defined in claim 1, which comprises the cyclisation of a compound of the formula (III):

    or a tautomer or salt thereof, wherein R3 is a lower alkyl group, and R2 is a lower (C1-6) alkyl group, a lower (C1-6) acyloxymethyl group, a phenyl group, a benzyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with one or more nitro or lower (C1-6) alkoxy groups, a phenacyl group optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with one or more hydroxy or lower (C1-6) alkoxygroups, an indolyl or indolylmethyl group, a group CH(CN)CH2C6H5 optionally substituted in the phenyl ring with one or more lower (C1-6) alkoxy groups, a group CH(Y)C02Z or a group CH2CH2C02Z in which Y is a hydrogen atom or a lower (C1-6) alkyl group and Z is a hydrogen or C1-6 alkyl and thereafter optionally hydrolysing the lower (C1-6) acyloxymethyl group to a hydroxymethyl group.
     
    8. A process for the preparation of compounds of the formula (II) wherein R1 is a group CH(Y)CO2H or a group CH2CH2CO2H wherein Y is as defined in Claim 1 which comprises the hydrolysis of the corresponding compound of the formula (II) wherein R1 is a group CH(Y)CO2Z or a group CH2CH2CO2Z respectively, Y being as defined in Claim 1, and Z being a lower (C1-6) alkyl group.
     
    9. A process for the preparation of compounds of the formula (11) as defined in claim 1 except that R1 is not a lower (C1-6) acyloxymethyl group, which process comprises the hydrolysis of a compound of the formula (VI):

    wherein R2 is as defined in claim 7 or a group C02R4 wherein R4 is a lower (C1-6) alkyl group.
     
    10. A process for the preparation of a compound of the formula (VI) as defined in claim 9 which comprises the cyclisation of a compound of the formula (VII):

    wherein R2 and R3 are as defined in claim 7.
     
    11. A compound of the formula (VI) as defined in claim 9.
     
    12. A compound as defined in claim 1 for use in human therapy.
     


    Ansprüche

    1. Verbindung der Formel (II)

    oder ein Tautomeres oder ein Salz davon, worin R1 eine niedrigmolekulare (C1-6)-Alkylgruppe, eine Hydroxymethylgruppe, eine Phenylgruppe, eine Carboxygruppe, eine Benzylgruppe, die gegebenenfalls am Phenylring mit einer oder mehreren Nitrogruppen oder niedrigmolekularen (C1-6)-Alkoxygruppen substituiert ist, eine Phenacylgruppe, die gegebenenfalls am Phenylring mit einer oder mehreren Hydroxylgruppen oder niedrigmolekularen (C1-6)-Alkoxygruppen substituiert ist, eine niedrigmolekulare (C1-6)-Acyloxymethylgruppe, eine Indolyl- oder Indolylmethyl-Gruppe, eine Gruppe der Formel CH(CN)CH2C6H5, die gegebenenfalls am Phenylring mit einer oder mehreren niedrigmolekularen (C1-6)-Alkoxygruppen substituiert ist, eine Gruppe der Formel CH(Y)COZ oder eine Gruppe der Formel CH2CH2CO2Z, worin Y für ein Wasserstoffatom oder eine niedrigmolekulare (C1-6)-Alkyl- oder AlkoxyGruppe und Z für ein Wasserstoffatom oder eine neidrigmolekulare (C1-6)-Alkylgruppe stehen, bedeutet.
     
    2. Verbindung nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß R1 eine Methylgruppe, eine Phenylgruppe, eine Benzylgruppe, die gegebenenfalls am Phenylring mit einer Nitrogruppe oder zwei oder drei Methoxygruppen substituiert ist, eine Hydroxymethylgruppe, eine Phenacylgruppe, die gegebenenfalls am Phenylring mit einer Hydroxylgruppe oder zwei oder drei Methoxygruppen substituiert ist, eine Gruppe der Formel CH2CH2CO2H, eine Acetyloxymethylgruppe, eine Indolylmethylgruppe, eine Gruppe der Formel CH(CN)CH2C6H5, die am Phenylring mit drei Methoxygruppen substituiert ist, oder eine Gruppe der Formel CH(Y)C02Z, worin Y eine Methylgruppe, eine Methoxygruppe oder ein Wasserstoffatom und Z ein Wasserstoffatom oder eine (C1-4)-Alkylgruppe darstellen, bedeutet.
     
    3. Verbindung nach den Ansprüchen 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß R1 eine Benzylgruppe oder eine Phenacylgruppe, die gegebenenfalls am Phenylring mit einer Hydroxylgruppe oder zwei oder drei Methoxygruppen substituiert ist, bedeutet.
     
    4. Pharmazeutische Zubereitung enthaltend eine Verbindung der Formel (II), wie sie in den Ansprüchen 1 bis 3 definiert ist, neben einem pharmazeutisch annehmbaren Träger.
     
    5. Verfahren zur Herstellung einer pharmazeutischen Zubereitung, wie sie in Anspruch 4 definiert ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß man die Verbinding der Formel (II) mit einem Träger vermischt. 6. Pharmazeutische Zubereitung nach Anspruch 1 in Einheitsdosisform.
     
    7. Verfahren zur Herstellung einer Verbindung der Formel (II), mit Ausnahme jener Verbindungen, worin R1 eine Carboxygruppe bedeutet, oder eines Tautomeren oder eines Salzes davon, wie sie in Anspruch 1 definiert ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß man eine Verbindung der Formel (III):

    oder ein Tautomeres oder ein Salz davon, worin R3 eine niedrigmolekulare Alkylgruppe und R2 eine niedrigmolekulare (C1-6)-Alkylgruppe, eine niedrigmolekulare (C1-6)-Acyloxymethylgruppe, eine Phenylgruppe, eine Benzylgruppe, die gegebenenfalls am Phenylring mit einer oder mehreren Nitrogruppen oder niedrigmolekularen (C1-6)-Alkoxygruppen substituiert ist, eine Phenacylgruppe, die gegebenenfalls am Phenylring mit einer oder mehreren Hydroxylgruppen oder niedrigmolekularen (C1-6)-Alkoxygruppen substituiert ist, eine Indolyl- oder Indolylmethylgruppe, eine Gruppe der Formel CH(CN)CH2C6H5, die gegebenenfalls am Phenylring mit einer oder mehreren niedrigmolekularen (C1-6)-Alkoxygruppen substituiert ist, eine Gruppe der Formel CH(Y)CO2Z oder eine Gruppe der Formel CH2CH2CO2Z, worin Y ein Wasserstoffatom oder eine niedrigmolekulare (C1-6)-Alkylgruppe und Z ein Wasserstoffatom oder eine (C1-6)-Alkylgruppe darstellen, bedeuten, cyclisiert und anschließend gegebenenfalls die niedrigmolekulare (C1-6)-Acyloxymethylgruppe zu einer Hydroxymethylgruppe hydrolysiert.
     
    8. Verfahren zur Herstellung der Verbindungen der Formel (II), in der R1 eine Gruppe der Formel CH(Y)C02H oder eine Gruppe der Formel CH2CH2CO2H, worin Y die in Anspruch 1 angegebenen Bedeutungen besitzt, bedeutet, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß man die entsprechende Verbindung der Formel (II), worin R1 eine Gruppe der Formel CH(Y)C02Z bzw. eine Gruppe der Formel CH2CH2CO2Z, worin Y die in Anspruch 2 angegebenen Bedeutungen besitzt und Z für eine niedrigmolekulare (C1-6)-Alkylgruppe steht, hydrolysiert.
     
    9. Verfahren zur Herstellung der Verbindungen der Formel (II), wie sie in Anspruch 1 definiert sind, ausgenommen der Verbindungen, worin R1 eine niedrigmolekulare (C1-6)-Acyloxymethylgruppe darstellt, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß man eine Verbindung der Formel (VI):

    worin R2 die in Anspruch 7 angegebenen Bedeutungen besitzt oder eine Gruppe der Formel COZR4, worin R4 eine niedrigmolekulare (C1-6)-Alkylgruppe darstellt, bedeutet, hydrolysiert.
     
    10. Verfahren zur Herstellung eine Verbindung der Formel (VI), wie sie in Anspruch 9 definiert ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß man eine Verbindung der Formel (VII):

    worin R2 und R3 die in Anspruch 7 angegebenen Bedeutungen besitzen, cyclisiert.
     
    11. Verbindung der Formel (VI), wie sie in Anspruch 9 definiert ist.
     
    12. Verbindung nach Anspruch 1 für die Verwendung in der Humantherapie.
     


    Revendications

    1. Les composés de formule générale Il

    ainsi que leurs tautomères et leurs sels, formule dans laquelle R' représente un groupe alkyle inférieur, hydroxyméthyle, phényle ou carboxy, un groupe benzyle éventuellement substitué sur le cycle phénylique par un ou plusieurs groupes nitro ou alcoxy inférieurs, un groupe phénacyle éventuellement substitué sur le cycle phénylique par un ou plusieurs groupes hydroxy ou alcoxy inférieurs, un alcoxyméthyle inférieur, un groupe indolyle ou indolylméthyle, un groupe CH(CN)CH2C6H5 éventuellement substitué sur le cycle phénylique par un ou plusieurs alcoxy inférieurs, ou encore un groupe CH(Y)CO2Z ou CH2CH2CO2Z, Y représentant un atome d'hydrogène ou bien un alkyle ou un alcoxy inférieur et Z un atome d'hydrogène ou un alkyle inférieur, le qualificatif "inférieur" appliqué aux groupes alkyles, alcoxy et acyles signifiant ici que ces groupes peuvent avoir de 1 à 6 atomes de carbone, à l'exception du groupe phénacyle qui ne désigne que le seul groupe C6H5COCH2―.
     
    2. Composé selon la revendication 1 dans laquelle R1 est un méthyle ou un phényle, un benzyle éventuellement substitué sur le cycle phénylique par un groupe nitro ou deux ou trois groupes méthoxy, un hydroxyméthyle, un phénacyle éventuellement substitué dans le cycle phénylique par un hydroxyle ou deux ou trois groupes méthoxy, un groupe CH2CH2CO2H, un groupe acétyloxyméthyle, un groupe indolyleméthyle ou un groupe CH(CN)CH2C6H5 substitué sur le cycle phénylique par trois méthoxy, ou encore un groupe CH(Y)CO2Z dans lequel Y est un méthyle, un méthoxy ou un atome d'hydrogène et Z un atome d'hydrogène ou un alkyle en C1-4.
     
    3. Composé selon la revendication 1 ou 2 dans lequel R1 est un groupe benzyle ou un groupe phénacyle éventuellement substitué sur le cycle phénylique par un hydroxyle ou deux ou trois groupes méthoxy.
     
    4. Composition pharmaceutique comprenant un composé de formule Il selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, associé avec un véhicule pour usages pharmaceutiques.
     
    5. Procédé de préparation d'une composition pharmaceutique selon la revendication 4, consistant à mélanger le composé de formule Il avec le véhicule.
     
    6. Composition pharmaceutique selon la revendication 4, sous forme de doses unitaires.
     
    7. Procédé de préparation des composés de formule Il selon la revendication 1 (à l'exception de ceux dans lesquels R1 est un groupe carboxy), ainsi que de leurs tautomères et sels, procédé selon lequel on cyclise un composé de formule III

    ou un tautomère ou un sel de celui-ci (formule dans laquelle R3 est un alkyle inférieur et R2 un alkyle en C1-6, un acyloxyméthyle en C1-6, un phényle, un benzyle éventuellement substitué sur le cycle phénylique par un ou plusieurs groupes nitro ou alcoxy en C1-6, un phénacyle éventuellement substitué sur le cycle phénylique par un ou plusieurs hydroxyles ou alcoxy en C1-6, un groupe indolyle ou indolylméthyle, un groupe CH(CN)CH2C6H5 éventuellement substitué sur le cycle phénylique par un ou plusieurs alcoxy (en C1-6), ou encore un groupe CH(Y)CO2Z ou CH2CH2CO2Z, Y étant un atome d'hydrogène ou bien un alkyle ou un alcoxy inférieur (en C1-6) et Z un atome d'hydrogène ou un alkyle inférieur (en C1-6)), puis le cas échéant on hydrolyse le groupe acyloxyméthyle inférieur (en C1-6) en un groupe hydroxyméthyle.
     
    8. Procédé de préparation des composés de formule Il dans lesquels R1 est un groupe CH(Y)C02H ou CH2CH2CO2H, Y ayant la signification donnée à la revendication 1, procédé selon lequel on hydrolyse le composé correspondant de formule Il dans lequel R1 est un groupe CH(Y)CO2Z ou CH2CH2CO2Z respectivement, Y ayant la signification donnée à la revendication 2 et Z étant un alkyle inférieur en C1-6.
     
    9. Procédé de préparation des composés de formule Il selon la revendication 1 (à l'exception de ceux dans lesquels R1 n'est pas un groupe acyloxyméthyle inférieur en C1-6), procédé selon lequel on hydrolyse un composé de formule VI

    R2 ayant la signification donnée à la revendication 7 ou étant un groupe CO2R4, R4 étant un alkyle en C1-6.
     
    10. Procédé de préparation d'un composé de formule VI selon la revendication 9, suivant lequel on cyclise un composé de formule VII

    R2 et R3 ayant les significations données à la revendication 7.
     
    11. Les composés de formule VI selon la revendication IX.
     
    '12. L'utilisation en thérapeutique humaine des composés selon la revendication 1.