Benzene is an important organic compound with the chemical formula C6H6, and its molecule consists of a ring of 6 carbon atoms, each with 1 hydrogen atom. Benzene is a sweet, flammable, colorless and transparent liquid with carcinogenic toxicity at room temperature, and has a strong aromatic odor. It is insoluble in water, easily soluble in organic solvents, and can also be used as an organic solvent itself. The ring system of benzene is called benzene ring, and the structure after removing one hydrogen atom from the benzene ring is called phenyl. Benzene is one of the most important basic organic chemical raw materials. Many important chemical intermediates can be derived from benzene through substitution reaction, addition reaction and benzene ring cleavage reaction.
Obesity is linked to overactivity of the endocannabinoid system that regulates appetite, fat storage, and insulin resistance. Cannabinoid receptor type-1 (CB1) belongs to the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily, and are found in the brain and peripheral tissues. Pharmacological blockers of CB1 receptors have demonstrated effectiveness in suppressing appetite, inducing weight loss, enhancing energy expenditure and speeding up metabolism.
Novo Nordisk’s Monlunabant is a novel peripherally-acting CB1 receptor blocker. This target limits brain penetration and minimizes psychiatric side-effects. Monlunabant is developed for the treatment of metabolic disorders. The phase 2 trials for diabetic kidney disease and obesity is expected in the second half of 2024.