Synthesis and biological activity of novel peptide mimetics as melanocortin receptor agonists

A series of novel peptidomimetic analogs was prepared containing cyclohexyl, phenyl, or heterocyclic groups to ostensibly orient the guanidine or mimic of an arginine in a putative melanocortin receptor ligand pharmacophore. Some binding affinity at the melanocortin receptors MC(3) and MC(4) was noted. In silico docking also indicated that the relative positions of the hydrogen-bonding sites and hydrophobic regions of the compounds are reasonably well matched to the receptor-binding site. This may present a lead entry into a selective series of MC(4)R agonists.