10.1080/00304948.2015.1025017
The study details the synthesis of Latrepirdine (also known as Dimebon) and its tetrathiomolybdate derivative. Dimebon is an antihistamine drug with potential cognitive-enhancing and neuroprotective properties, particularly in Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease models. The researchers developed a reproducible process to prepare Dimebon starting from methyl 6-methylnicotinate, involving several steps including reduction, condensation, and nitrosation, ultimately leading to the final product via the Fischer Indole Synthesis. The study also explores the synthesis of dimebon tetrathiomolybdate, a compound that combines dimebon's neuroprotective properties with the copper-complexing abilities of the tetrathiomolybdate ion, which has been shown to lower insoluble beta-amyloid levels in Alzheimer's disease models. Two methods for preparing the tetrathiomolybdate derivative were investigated, with the first yielding the product in 82% yield. The study provides detailed procedures and characterizations of the synthesized compounds, highlighting their potential medicinal applications.