Structure-based drug design:: Synthesis, crystal structure, biological evaluation and docking studies of mono- and bis-benzo[b]oxepines as non-steroidal estrogens

Mono- and bis-benzo[b]oxepine derivatives have been rationally synthesized to meet the molecular requirement for interaction with estrogen receptor. Bis-benzo[b]oxepines (7 and 9) and mono-benzo[b]oxepine (10) acquire geometry with phenolic groups disposed in a fashion to stimulate estrogen receptor. Structure-based investigation, in vivo activity and docking studies have been described and correlated to demonstrate a practical approach for suitable ligand design. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.