The Molecular Recognition Section of NIDDK announces the availability of a novel triazole-based probes, structures which act as antagonists at human P2Y₁₄ receptors. Although the physiologic functions of this receptor remain undefined, recently it has been strongly implicated in immune and inflammatory responses. Prior work with a 4,7-disubstituted 2 naphthoic acid derivative (PPTN) established the ability to inhibit chemotaxis of human neutrophils in the lung and kidney.

In this series, the triazole moiety is used as a bioisosteric replacement for the naphthoic acid core of PPTN. This substitution imparts more stability. This triazole ring has increased polarity and additional H-bond accepting groups when compared to a naphthalene core. The new triazole scaffold can form additional interactions that stabilize the ligand within the receptor binding pocket. It has also been identified that substitution at the para-position of the phenyl ring is favored.