Unity Biotechnology, Inc.
PRODUCTS OF CHIRAL SYNTHESIS OF CIS-IMIDAZOLINE COMPOUNDS AND THEIR USE

Abstract:

This invention provides a method for enantioselective synthesis of cis-imidazolines and related structures through chiral resolution. A chiral acid is used to separate enantiomeric precursors of the cis-imidazolines from a racemic mixture by selective crystallization. Both enantiomers can be cyclized into the desired cis-imidazoline by complementary pathways. Compounds can be synthesized according to the invention with an enantiomeric excess as high as 99%. Cis-imidazolines such as Nutlin-3a prepared according to this invention may be used for treating cancer, killing senescent cells, or treating senescence-associated conditions.