Immunomodulation by the new synthetic thiazole derivative tiprotimod. 1st communication: synthesis and structure-activity relationships.

A series of carboxyalkylthio-substituted thiazole-carboxylic acids was synthesized and examined for macrophage activation and stimulation of the DTH (delayed type of hypersensitivity)-reaction. The structure-activity relationship in this series of new immunomodulators is discussed. Broadest immunological activity was seen for [2-(3-carboxy-1-propylthio)-4-methyl-1,3-thiazole]acetic acid (tiprotimod, HBW 538) which was selected for further studies.