Synthesis of a Series of Hexitol and Aminodeoxyhexitol Mononitrate Derivatives Containing a Sulfur Group and Pharmacological Evaluation on Isolated Rat Aortas

Abstract

As part of our research into new organic nitrates for the treatment of angina pectoris, we have investigated a series of hexitol and aminodeoxyhexitol mononitrate derivatives containing a sulfur group. Since the depletion of tissue stores of sulfhydryl groups appears to play an important role in the development of this phenomenon, the addition of a sulfur group to a nitrate derivative could prevent the development of nitrate tolerance during a long‐term treatment. Before studying the duration of action, and the possible influence on tolerance phenomenon, it was important to check the vasorelaxing effects of our compounds compared to those of commercial organic nitrates of similar structures such as isosorbide mononitrate or isosorbide dinitrate. All the compounds were tested on isolated rat aortas; some of these products exhibited an interesting activity.