Synthesis and vasorelaxant activity of new coumarin and furocoumarin derivatives

We have synthesized a new series of coumarins and furocoumarins and evaluated their vasorelaxant activity in rat aorta rings pre-contracted with noradrenaline or by depolarisation with high KCl. The new furocoumarins relax smooth vascular muscle with a profile similar to that of khellin (a furochromone that directly relaxes smooth muscle) and at a greater potency, suggesting that these compounds have a potential interest for the development of new and more efficient vasodilator drugs. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.