A PKB (Akt) activating agent comprising a compound represented by the
formula (I): 1
wherein R.sup.1 and R.sup.2: H, a hydrocarbon group or a heterocyclic
group or R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 form a ring in cooperation with the adjacent
carbon atom; R.sup.3: H, a hydrocarbon group or a heterocyclic group; W:
represents a group represented by the formulas: 2
wherein ring A: an optionally substituted benzene ring; ring B: an
optionally substituted 5- to 7-membered nitrogen-containing heterocycle;
R.sup.4: an aliphatic hydrocarbon group substituted with an aromatic
group and further optionally substituted, or an acyl group containing an
aromatic group; R.sup.5: H, C.sub.1-6 alkyl or acyl; R.sup.4c: an
aromatic group, an aliphatic hydrocarbon group or acyl; and X:O or S;
Y:O, S or NH; and ring C: an optionally substituted benzene ring, or a
salt or a prodrug thereof, and use of the activating agent in prevention
or treatment of depression, anxiety, manic-depressive psychosis or PTSD
are provided.
