Redox Heterocyclic Platforms Engineered for Brain Drug Delivery and Beyond.

Overcoming the blood-brain barrier remains one of the most formidable challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of central nervous system disorders. In this account, we showcase our contributions to the field of redox-responsive heterocycles, most notably 1,4-dihydroquinolines and 1,4-dihydropyridines, designed as powerful platforms for targeted brain delivery. Our work builds on the chemical delivery system and bioprecursor prodrug strategies pioneered by Bodor et al. We have focused on the development of redox-activated drug carriers and "bio-oxidizable" prodrugs, which enable efficient transport of neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and radiotracers for advanced brain imaging, as well as cholinesterase and kinase inhibitors for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Last but not least, these versatile heterocyclic systems offer unprecedented perspectives in synthetic methodology, driving breakthrough advances in peptide synthesis and atroposelective amide bond construction.