Synthesis and neurotropic activity of new 3-(arylmethyl)aminopyridine-2(1H)-one

The reaction of 3-amino-6-methyl-4-phenylpyridine-2(1H)-one with aromatic aldehydes resulted in the corresponding Schiff bases, which reduction with sodium borohydride led to the formation of 3-(arylmethylamino)-6-methyl-4-phenylpyridine-2(1H)-ones. The structure of all prepared compounds was proved by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The initial evaluation of the synthesized compounds in vivo was carried out for a tranquilizing (anxiolytic) activity by «light–dark box test» and antidepressant activity by Porsolt’s «behavioral despair test». Several derivatives of 3-(arylmethylamino)-6-methyl-4-phenylpyridine-2(1H)-one with higher potential neurotropic activity than that of the comparator drugs (Mexidol and Amitriptyline) were detected.