Extended N(6) substitution of rigid C2-arylethynyl nucleosides for exploring the role of extracellular loops in ligand recognition at the A3 adenosine receptor.

2-Arylethynyl-(N)-methanocarba adenosine 5'-methyluronamides containing rigid N(6)-(trans-2-phenylcyclopropyl) and 2-phenylethynyl groups were synthesized as agonists for probing structural features of the A3 adenosine receptor (AR). Radioligand binding confirmed A3AR selectivity and N(6)-1S,2R stereoselectivity for one diastereomeric pair. The environment of receptor-bound, conformationally constrained N(6) groups was explored by docking to an A3AR homology model, indicating specific hydrophobic interactions with the second extracellular loop able to modulate the affinity profile. 2-Pyridylethynyl derivative 18 was administered orally in mice to reduce chronic neuropathic pain in the chronic constriction injury model.