L-methyl-4-phenyl-4-propionoxy-piperidine

Recently much interest has centred on a very specific toxin for DA neurons. This is 1-methyl-4-phenyl-l,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). It was discovered when a student, who was addicted to pethidine, tried to manufacture l-methyl-4-phenyl-4-propionoxy-piperidine (MPPP) but took a short-cut in synthesis and produced MPTP. When he administered this to himself he developed Parkinsonism. MPTP destroys DA neurons. Again this process depends on the neuronal uptake mechanism, since MPTP itself is not the active material. It needs to be deaminated to MPP+ which is then taken up by DA nerve terminals. 

The inversion of the ester fnnction of meperidine leads to l-methyl-4-phenyl-4-propionoxy piperidine (Fignre 15.50) which is five times more potent as an analgesic drug than meperidine and represents the model componnd of the series of inverted esters. ... 

---