Mebroqualone: A Novel Quinazolinone Derivative for Specialized CNS Research

Product Name: Mebroqualone
Chemical Name: 3-(2-Bromophenyl)-2-methylquinazolin-4(3H)-one
CAS Number: 56205-74-8
Molecular Formula: C₁₅H₁₁BrN₂O
Molar Mass: 315.17 g/mol
Appearance: Fine, white to off-white crystalline powder

Introduction: Rediscovering a Unique Quinazolinone

Mebroqualone is a synthetic compound belonging to the quinazolinone class, a group of chemicals historically investigated for their sedative and hypnotic properties. It is a structural analog of the better-known Methaqualone, distinguished by a bromine substitution at the ortho position of the phenyl ring. This specific halogenation is a critical modification that significantly alters the compound’s electronic distribution, lipid solubility, and receptor binding profile compared to its parent compound. As a result, Mebroqualone presents a unique subject for researchers exploring the structure-activity relationships (SAR) of quinazolinones and their complex interactions with neural targets.

This product is provided strictly as a high-purity chemical for non-human, in vitro research applications by qualified scientific professionals.

Key Characteristics and Research Properties

• Quinazolinone Core Structure: Mebroqualone’s core quinazolinone structure is distinct from the more common benzodiazepine or barbiturate classes of CNS depressants. This makes it a valuable tool for comparative research into diverse mechanisms of GABAergic modulation and neuronal inhibition.

• Bromine Substitution: The ortho-bromine atom on the phenyl ring is a key structural feature. This halogen atom increases molecular weight and lipophilicity, which can influence blood-brain barrier penetration, receptor binding affinity, and metabolic stability in preclinical models. It is a primary focus for SAR studies.

• GABAergic Modulation: Preliminary, non-clinical research suggests that quinazolinones like Mebroqualone may act as positive allosteric modulators of the GABA-A receptor, albeit potentially at a different binding site or with different subunit selectivity compared to benzodiazepines. This unique action requires further investigation.

• Research Applications: Its primary utility lies in its application as a novel ligand in receptor studies and as a metabolite analog for forensic toxicology screening.

Intended Applications and Research Use

Mebroqualone is a chemical for controlled scientific investigation and is not for human or veterinary use.

Its primary applications include, but are not limited to:

• Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) Research: Comparative in vitro studies against other quinazolinones (e.g., Methaqualone, Etaqualone) to map the impact of halogen substitutions on receptor binding affinity, efficacy, and selectivity.

• Receptor Binding Assays: Investigation of its binding kinetics (Ki/IC50) and functional efficacy (EC50) at GABA-A receptor subtypes and other potential neural targets to elucidate its unique mechanism of action.

• Metabolic Pathway Analysis: Analysis of phase I and phase II metabolic pathways using human liver microsome models to identify characteristic metabolites for forensic toxicology purposes.

• Analytical Reference Standard: Serving as a high-purity calibrant for the development and validation of sensitive analytical methods (e.g., GC-MS, LC-MS/MS) for the detection and quantification of novel quinazolinone derivatives in forensic and research samples.

• Historical Pharmacological Analysis: Research into the class of compounds that were historically significant but are now primarily of interest for forensic and analytical chemistry.

Handling, Storage, and Safety Information

• Purity: >98% (as verified by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)).

• Solubility: Soluble in organic solvents such as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), ethanol, and methanol. Limited solubility in water.

• Storage: Must be stored in its original container in a cool, dry, and dark environment, ideally between +2°C and +8°C. The container must be tightly sealed and protected from light and moisture to prevent degradation and ensure long-term stability.

• Handling: CAUTION. This material is intended for research purposes only. It must be handled by trained researchers in a controlled laboratory setting. Strict safety protocols must be followed, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as nitrile gloves, a lab coat, and safety glasses. Handling of the pure powder is advised to be conducted within a certified fume hood to prevent accidental inhalation or exposure.