Opioids are commonly prescribed for the treatment of neuropathic pain; however, their high rates of physical dependency and addiction raise concern. Given their adverse side effects, there is a need for new therapeutics that target non-opioid receptors. GPR183 (Epstein-Barr induced gene 2, EBI2) is a G-protein coupled receptor (GCPR) that plays a role in the transduction of neuropathic pain. SAE-14 is a novel molecule that is able to antagonize, or inhibit GPR183; thus, preventing the transmission of pain. To gain a better understanding of which substituents improve the binding between SAE-14 and GPR-183, it is necessary to synthesize several analogs of the molecule. The potency of this antagonism can be measured by running calcium mobilization assays to produce an Inhibitory Concentration (IC50) curve. The results from this project will contribute towards a better understanding of the functional groups that are necessary for GPR183 antagonism and improve to the compound’s optimization as a potential therapeutic for neuropathic pain treatment.

Dietrich would like to thank his faculty sponsor Dr. Jamie Motley for their support with this project.