Stimulatory effect of 4-alkylcatechols and their diacetylated derivatives on the synthesis of nerve growth factor.

A series of 4-alkylcatechols and 1,2-diacetoxy-4-alkylbenzenes (from methyl to butyl) were chemically synthesized for in vitro evaluation as stimulators of nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis. All compounds were proven to be potent in stimulating NGF synthesis in L-M cells (a mouse fibroblast cell line) and mouse astroglial cells. In a series of 4-alkylcatechols, 4-methylcatechol and 4-ethylcatechol severely affected viability and cell adhesive properties. In a series of 1,2-diacetoxy-4-alkylbenzenes, the concentrations required for the maximal effect and the effective ranges of concentrations were higher than those in the 4-alkylcatechol series, and the cell adhesive properties or viabilities were not affected. Evidence is also presented to indicate that the elevation of NGF synthesis by these compounds was not associated with the cell growth.