Lowering Lipophilicity by Adding Carbon: AzaSpiroHeptanes, a log D Lowering Twist

We have conducted an analysis of azaspiro[3.3]heptanes used as replacements for morpholines, piperidines, and piperazines in a medicinal chemistry context. In most cases, introducing a spirocyclic center lowered the measured log D 7.4 of the corresponding molecules by as much as −1.0 relative to the more usual heterocycle. This may seem counterintuitive, as the net change in the molecule is the addition of a single carbon atom, but it may be rationalized in terms of increased basicity. An exception to this was found with N -linked 2-azaspiro[3.3]heptane, where log D 7.4 increased by as much as +0.5, consistent with the addition of carbon. During our investigation, we also concluded that azaspiro[3.3]heptanes are most likely not suitable bioisosteres for morpholines, piperidines, and piperazines, when not used as terminal groups, due to significant changes in their geometry.