Synthesis and Structure–Activity Relationship Studies of Anti-Inflammatory Epoxyisoprostane Analogues

The lactone derivative of the epoxyisoprostane EC is a highly effective inhibitor of the secretion of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-6. Herein, a modular synthesis of analogues is described, allowing flexible variations of the cyclic side chain of the parent lactone. A structure–activity relationship study identified a lactam analogue that retains the high activity. Furthermore, the exocyclic allylic alcohol was shown to be crucial for the observed effect.