Synthesis and BiologicalEvaluation of 4‑Bromo-N,N-dimethyltryptamine(4-Br-DMT): A Synthetic BuildingBlock for Future Analog Development

A new chemical synthesis of 4-bromo-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (4-Br-DMT) was developed, enabling the creation of novel tryptamine molecules with modifications at the C4 position via palladium cross-coupling reactions. This approach facilitates rapid development of a library of compounds for studying structure-activity relationships with serotonergic targets. Compared to psilocin and DMT, 4-Br-DMT exhibits a serotonergic profile but lacks psychedelic-like effects in mice, though it has a reduced safety profile.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The ongoing psychedelic renaissance has prompted a renewed search for novel drugs based on modifying existing psychedelic motifs. In this study, a synthesis of 4-bromo-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (4-Br-DMT) was achieved and used as a late-stage intermediate for analog development. Specifically, we were able to synthesize and access novel molecules by forming carbon–carbon bonds at the C4 position using palladium cross-coupling reactions. Using the synthetic route described here will facilitate the rapid development of a library of tryptamines with novel 4-position substitutions to investigate structure–activity relationships (SARs) with serotonergic targets. Furthermore, the pharmacological target profile and biological effects of 4-Br-DMT were compared to the 4-hydroxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (psilocin) and nonring-substituted analog, N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Overall, the data indicate that 4-Br-DMT has a serotonergic profile without psychedelic-like effects in mice but has a reduced safety profile compared to psilocin and DMT.