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Fassi EMA, Citarella A, Albani M, Milano EG, Legnani L, Lammi C, Silvani A, Grazioso G. PCSK9 inhibitors: a patent review 2018-2023. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2024; 34:245-261. [PMID: 38588538 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2024.2340569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) plays a crucial role in breaking down the hepatic low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), thereby influencing the levels of circulating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Consequently, inhibiting PCSK9 through suitable ligands has been established as a validated therapeutic strategy for combating hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular diseases. AREA COVERED Patent literature claiming novel compounds inhibiting PCSK9 disclosed from 2018 to June 2023 available in the espacenet database, which contains more than 150 million patent documents from over 100 patent-granting authorities worldwide. EXPERT OPINION The undisputable beneficial influence of PCSK9 as a pharmacological target has prompted numerous private and public institutions to patent chemical frameworks as inhibitors of PCSK9. While several compounds have advanced to clinical trials for treating hypercholesterolemia, they have not completed these trials yet. These compounds must contend in a complex market where new, costly, and advanced drugs, such as monoclonal antibodies and siRNA, are prescribed instead of inexpensive and less potent statins.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Citarella
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Marco Albani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Erica Ginevra Milano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Laura Legnani
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Carmen Lammi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandra Silvani
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Grazioso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
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Giannessi L, Lupo MG, Rossi I, Martina MG, Vilella A, Bodria M, Giuliani D, Zimetti F, Zanotti I, Potì F, Bernini F, Ferri N, Radi M. Identification of 4-amino-2-Pyridones as new potent PCSK9 inhibitors: From phenotypic hit discovery to in vivo tolerability. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116063. [PMID: 38160616 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Among the strategies to overcome the underperformance of statins in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the development of drugs targeting the Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin-like Kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is considered one of the most promising. However, only anti-PCSK9 biological drugs have been approved to date, and orally available small-molecules for the treatment of hypercholesterolemic conditions are still missing on the market. In the present work, we describe the application of a phenotypic approach to the identification and optimization of 4-amino-2-pyridone derivatives as a new chemotype with anti-PCSK9 activity. Starting from an in-house collection of compounds, functional assays on HepG2 cells followed by a chemistry-driven hit optimization campaign, led to the potent anti-PCSK9 candidate 5c. This compound, at 5 μM, totally blocked PCSK9 secretion from HepG2 cells, significantly increased LDL receptor (LDLR) expression, and acted cooperatively with simvastatin by reducing its induction of PCSK9 expression. Finally, compound 5c also proved to be well tolerated in C57BL/6J mice at the tested concentration (40 mg/kg) with no sign of toxicity or behavior modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Giannessi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Degli Alimenti e Del Farmaco (DipALIFAR), Università Degli Studi di Parma, Viale Delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Ilaria Rossi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 351131, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Martina
- Dipartimento di Scienze Degli Alimenti e Del Farmaco (DipALIFAR), Università Degli Studi di Parma, Viale Delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Antonietta Vilella
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Martina Bodria
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniela Giuliani
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesca Zimetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Degli Alimenti e Del Farmaco (DipALIFAR), Università Degli Studi di Parma, Viale Delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Ilaria Zanotti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Degli Alimenti e Del Farmaco (DipALIFAR), Università Degli Studi di Parma, Viale Delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesco Potì
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Neuroscience, University of Parma, 43125, Parma, Italy
| | - Franco Bernini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Degli Alimenti e Del Farmaco (DipALIFAR), Università Degli Studi di Parma, Viale Delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferri
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128, Padova, Italy; Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, 35129, Italy.
| | - Marco Radi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Degli Alimenti e Del Farmaco (DipALIFAR), Università Degli Studi di Parma, Viale Delle Scienze, 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy.
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Wang X, Zhang L, Wang X, Zhu D, Xu G, Li H, Zhang L. Discovery of (2-(4-Substituted phenyl)quinolin-4-yl)(4-isopropylpiperazin-1-yl)methanone Derivatives as Potent Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 Inhibitors. ChemMedChem 2024; 19:e202300498. [PMID: 38054966 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202300498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Inhibition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) plays an increasingly important role in the treatment of hyperlipidemia. In pursuit of potent small molecules that block the PCSK9/low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) protein-protein interaction (PPI), a series of 2-phenylquinoline-4-carboxylic acid derivatives were designed and synthesized based on previously derived molecules. In the in vitro PPI inhibition test, compounds M1, M12, M14, M18 and M27 exhibited potent activities with IC50 values of 6.25 μM, 0.91 μM, 2.81 μM, 4.26 μM and 0.76 μM, respectively, compared with SBC-115337 (IC50 value of 9.24 μM). Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations revealed the importance of hydrophobic interactions in the binding of inhibitors to the PPI interface of PCSK9. In LDLR expression and LDL uptake assays, the tested compounds M1, M12 and M14 were found to restore LDLR expression levels and to increase the extracellular LDL uptake capacity of HepG2 cells in the presence of exogenous PCSK9. Collectively, novel small-molecule PCSK9/LDLR PPI inhibitors (especially M12) with in vitro lipid lowering ability, were discovered as lead compounds for further development of hypolipidemic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Lihui Zhang
- School of Stomatology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Department of Pharmacology School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Dongqi Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Guangzhao Xu
- Harway Pharma Co., Ltd., Dongying, Shandong, China
- Weifang Synovtech New Material Technology Co., Ltd., Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, China
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Ma Z, Liu H, Jiang S, Li W, Li Y, Liu Y, Wang L, Li W. Identification of benzothiazoles as novel PCSK9 inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2024; 97:129542. [PMID: 37939861 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2023.129542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a clinically validated target on the treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD). PCSK9 can regulate the hepatocyte surface low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) level by binding to LDLR and leading to their degradation in the lysosome. The clinical use of two monoclonal antibodies (alirocumab and evolocumab, approved in 2015) and one small interfering RNA (inclisiran, approved in 2020) which can inhibit PCSK9 function proved that they are very effective in lowering low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). However, the high treatment costs and parenteral administration of these drugs prohibited widespread use and reduced their long-term advantage. Comparatively, small molecule drugs have many incomparable advantages of macromolecules, such as lower treatment cost, more drug administration options, superior pharmacokinetic properties, less adverse immunogenic responses and better affordable production. In this paper, we identified a series of benzothiazoles small molecule PCSK9 inhibitors through extensive screening. The structure and activity relationship (SAR) was summarized to facilitate further optimization. Moreover, the primary mechanism of action of the most potent compound was also investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhixin Ma
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, China
| | - Hongtao Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, China
| | - Shan Jiang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, China
| | - Wenya Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, China
| | - Yue Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics and CAMS Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology for Drug Innovation, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Tiantan Xili, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yiting Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics and CAMS Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology for Drug Innovation, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Tiantan Xili, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Li Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics and CAMS Key Laboratory of Synthetic Biology for Drug Innovation, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Tiantan Xili, Beijing 100050, China.
| | - Wenyan Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Organic Functional Molecules, College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, China.
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Arora R, Mirabi B, Durant AG, Bozal-Ginesta C, Marchese AD, Aspuru-Guzik A, Lautens M. Palladium-Catalyzed Synthesis of Linked Bis-Heterocycles─Synthesis and Investigation of Photophysical Properties. J Am Chem Soc 2023. [PMID: 38039391 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c07234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
A palladium-catalyzed domino C-N coupling/Cacchi reaction is reported. Design of photoluminescent bis-heterocycles, aided by density functional theory calculations, was performed with synthetic yields up to 98%. The photophysical properties of the products accessed via this strategy were part of a comprehensive study that led to broad emission spectra and quantum yields of up to 0.59. Mechanistic experiments confirmed bromoalkynes as competent intermediates, and a density functional theory investigation suggests a pathway involving initial oxidative addition into the cis C-Br bond of the gem-dihaloolefin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramon Arora
- Davenport Research Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Bijan Mirabi
- Davenport Research Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Andrew G Durant
- Davenport Research Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Carlota Bozal-Ginesta
- Davenport Research Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Austin D Marchese
- Davenport Research Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Alán Aspuru-Guzik
- Davenport Research Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Mark Lautens
- Davenport Research Laboratories, Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
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Ratti A, Fassi EMA, Forlani F, Zangrossi M, Mori M, Cappitelli F, Roda G, Villa S, Villa F, Grazioso G. Unlocking the Antibiofilm Potential of Natural Compounds by Targeting the NADH:quinone Oxidoreductase WrbA. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1612. [PMID: 37627607 PMCID: PMC10451263 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Biofilm-dwelling cells endure adverse conditions, including oxidative imbalances. The NADH:quinone oxidoreductase enzyme WrbA has a crucial role in the mechanism of action of antibiofilm molecules such as ellagic and salicylic acids. This study aimed to exploit the potential of the WrbA scaffold as a valuable target for identifying antibiofilm compounds at non-lethal concentrations. A three-dimensional computational model, based on the published WrbA structure, was used to screen natural compounds from a virtual library of 800,000 compounds. Fisetin, morin, purpurogallin, NZ028, and NZ034, along with the reference compound ellagic acid, were selected. The antibiofilm effect of the molecules was tested at non-lethal concentrations evaluating the cell-adhesion of wild-type and WrbA-deprived Escherichia coli strains through fluorochrome-based microplate assays. It was shown that, except for NZ028, all of the selected molecules exhibited notable antibiofilm effects. Purpurogallin and NZ034 showed excellent antibiofilm performances at the lowest concentration of 0.5 μM, in line with ellagic acid. The observed loss of activity and the level of reactive oxygen species in the mutant strain, along with the correlation with terms contributing to the ligand-binding free energy on WrbA, strongly indicates the WrbA-dependency of purpurogallin and NZ034. Overall, the molecular target WrbA was successfully employed to identify active compounds at non-lethal concentrations, thus revealing, for the first time, the antibiofilm efficacy of purpurogallin and NZ034.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Ratti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico M A Fassi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Forlani
- Department of Food Environmental and Nutritional Science (DeFENS), University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zangrossi
- Department of Food Environmental and Nutritional Science (DeFENS), University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Mori
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Cappitelli
- Department of Food Environmental and Nutritional Science (DeFENS), University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriella Roda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Villa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Villa
- Department of Food Environmental and Nutritional Science (DeFENS), University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Grazioso
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
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7
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Zhu D, Qin H, Wang X, Jia Y, Wang X, Zhang L. Discovery of [5,5'-bibenzo[d][1,3]dioxol]-6-substituted amine derivatives as potent proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors. Chem Biol Drug Des 2023; 102:153-167. [PMID: 37170061 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.14264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. In discovery of novel small molecules that interfere PCSK9/LDLR protein-protein interaction (PPI), structural modification was performed based on our previously derived compounds. A series of [5,5'-bibenzo[d][1,3]dioxol]-6-amine analogs were designed and synthesized for the activity evaluation. In the PCSK9/LDLR PPI impairing test, molecules D28 and D29, exhibited remarkable inhibitory potency with IC50 values of 8.30 and 6.70 μM compared with SBC-115337 (17.89 μM), respectively. Molecular docking predicted the binding pattern of compounds D28 and D29 in the LDLR binding site of PCSK9. Hydrophobic interactions play an important role in the binding of aromatic molecular fragments to the pockets in the PCSK9/LDLR binding interface. Further LDLR expression and LDL uptake studies revealed that both D28 and D29 restored LDLR expression on the surface of hepatic HepG2 cells and improved extracellular LDL uptake in the presence of PCSK9. It is significant that molecules D28 and D29 exhibited potential for the treatment of hyperlipidemia in current in vitro investigations. Generally, lead compounds with novel structures were developed in the present study for further design of lipid-lowering molecules by targeting PCSK9/LDLR PPI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongqi Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Hongyu Qin
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Xiaojing Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Yuping Jia
- Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical Science, Jinan, China
| | - Xuejian Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
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8
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Lammi C, Fassi EMA, Manenti M, Brambilla M, Conti M, Li J, Roda G, Camera M, Silvani A, Grazioso G. Computational Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Diimidazole Analogues Endowed with Dual PCSK9/HMG-CoAR-Inhibiting Activity. J Med Chem 2023. [PMID: 37261954 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) is responsible for the degradation of the hepatic low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), which regulates circulating cholesterol levels. Consequently, the PCSK9 inhibition is a valuable therapeutic approach for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular diseases. In our studies, we discovered Rim13, a polyimidazole derivative reducing the protein-protein interaction between PCSK9 and LDLR with an IC50 of 1.6 μM. The computational design led to the optimization of the shape of the PCSK9/ligand complementarity, enabling the discovery of potent diimidazole derivatives. In fact, carrying out biological assays to fully characterize the cholesterol-lowering activity of the new analogues and using both biochemical and cellular techniques, compound Dim16 displayed improved PCSK9 inhibitory activity (IC50 0.9 nM). Interestingly, similar to other lupin-derived peptides and their synthetic analogues, some compounds in this series showed dual hypocholesterolemic activity since some of them complementarily inhibited the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Lammi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico M A Fassi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Manenti
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Golgi 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Brambilla
- Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, via Parea 4, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Conti
- Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, via Parea 4, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Jianqiang Li
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Gabriella Roda
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Camera
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, via Parea 4, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Silvani
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Golgi 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Grazioso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
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9
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Li S, Lei L, Feng B, Liu X, Xian L, Li Y. N-Iodosuccinimide-Mediated Synthesis of Benzo-Fused Bisimidazoles Enabled by a One-Pot Tandem Reaction of Fluorinated Propargyl Amidines. J Org Chem 2023; 88:4101-4111. [PMID: 36926882 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.2c02379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
A N-iodosuccinimide (NIS)-mediated divergent and efficient tandem reaction between fluorinated propargyl amidines and aromatic o-diamines without any metal catalyst and additive under mild reaction conditions was developed for the synthesis of benzo-fused bisimidazoles in moderate to excellent yields. Preliminary mechanistic studies suggested that this reaction proceeded by an intermediate of secondary amine derived from 5-iodomethyl imidazole, and NIS played another role of oxidation reagent to promote the formation of a benzimidazole motif.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Li
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Urban Water Environment, Key laboratory of Regional Ecological Environment Analysis and Pollution Control of West Guangxi, College of Chemistry and Environment Engineering, Baise University, 21 Zhongshan No.2 Road, Baise 533000, China
| | - Lu Lei
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Urban Water Environment, Key laboratory of Regional Ecological Environment Analysis and Pollution Control of West Guangxi, College of Chemistry and Environment Engineering, Baise University, 21 Zhongshan No.2 Road, Baise 533000, China
| | - Bin Feng
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Urban Water Environment, Key laboratory of Regional Ecological Environment Analysis and Pollution Control of West Guangxi, College of Chemistry and Environment Engineering, Baise University, 21 Zhongshan No.2 Road, Baise 533000, China
| | - Xiaofeng Liu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Urban Water Environment, Key laboratory of Regional Ecological Environment Analysis and Pollution Control of West Guangxi, College of Chemistry and Environment Engineering, Baise University, 21 Zhongshan No.2 Road, Baise 533000, China
| | - Liqing Xian
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Urban Water Environment, Key laboratory of Regional Ecological Environment Analysis and Pollution Control of West Guangxi, College of Chemistry and Environment Engineering, Baise University, 21 Zhongshan No.2 Road, Baise 533000, China
| | - Yajun Li
- Key Laboratory of Coal to Ethylene Glycol and Its Related Technology, State Key Laboratory of Structural Chemistry, Fujian Institute of Research on the Structure of Matter, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 155 Yangqiao Road West, Fuzhou 350002, China
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10
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Computational Design, Synthesis, and Biophysical Evaluation of β-Amido Boronic Acids as SARS-CoV-2 M pro Inhibitors. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28052356. [PMID: 36903597 PMCID: PMC10005264 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28052356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has given a strong impetus to the search for antivirals active on SARS-associated coronaviruses. Over these years, numerous vaccines have been developed and many of these are effective and clinically available. Similarly, small molecules and monoclonal antibodies have also been approved by the FDA and EMA for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients who could develop the severe form of COVID-19. Among the available therapeutic tools, the small molecule nirmatrelvir was approved in 2021. It is a drug capable of binding to the Mpro protease, an enzyme encoded by the viral genome and essential for viral intracellular replication. In this work, by virtual screening of a focused library of β-amido boronic acids, we have designed and synthesized a focused library of compounds. All of them were biophysically tested by microscale thermophoresis, attaining encouraging results. Moreover, they also displayed Mpro protease inhibitory activity, as demonstrated by performing enzymatic assays. We are confident that this study will pave the way for the design of new drugs potentially useful for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 viral infection.
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11
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Ahamad S, Bhat SA. Recent Update on the Development of PCSK9 Inhibitors for Hypercholesterolemia Treatment. J Med Chem 2022; 65:15513-15539. [PMID: 36446632 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin-type 9 (PCSK9) binds to low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLR), thereby trafficking them to lysosomes upon endocytosis and enhancing intracellular degradation to prevent their recycling. As a result, the levels of circulating LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) increase, which is a prominent risk factor for developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD). Thus, PCSK9 has become a promising therapeutic target that offers a fertile testing ground for new drug modalities to regulate plasma LDL-C levels to prevent ASCVD. In this review, we have discussed the role of PCSK9 in lipid metabolism and briefly summarized the current clinical status of modalities targeting PCSK9. In particular, a detailed overview of peptide-based PCSK9 inhibitors is presented, which emphasizes their structural features and design, therapeutic effects on patients, and preclinical cardiovascular disease (CVD) models, along with PCSK9 modulation mechanisms. As a promising alternative to monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for managing LDL-C, anti-PCSK9 peptides are emerging as a prospective next generation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakir Ahamad
- Department of Chemistry, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
| | - Shahnawaz A Bhat
- Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
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12
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Li F, Zhang L, Feng J, Zhang L. Discovery and SAR analysis of phenylbenzo[d][1,3]dioxole-based proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2022; 37:2017-2035. [PMID: 35854672 PMCID: PMC9307114 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2022.2101645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has emerged as a novel therapeutic target for the development of cholesterol-lowering drugs. In the discovery of PCSK9/LDLR (low-density lipoprotein receptor) protein-protein interaction (PPI) impairing small molecules, a total of 47 phenylbenzo[d][1,3] dioxole-based compounds were designed and synthesised. The result revealed that the 4-chlorobenzyl substitution in the amino group is important for the PPI disrupting activity. In the hepatocyte-based functional tests, active compounds such as A12, B1, B3, B4 and B14, restored the LDLR levels on the surface of hepatic HepG2 cells and increased extracellular LDL uptake in the presence of PCSK9. It is notable that molecule B14 exhibited good performance in all the evaluations. Collectively, novel structures targeting PCSK9/LDLR PPI have been developed with hypolipidemic potential. Further structural modification of derived active compounds is promising in the discovery of lead compounds with improved activity for the treatment of hyperlipidaemia-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahui Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Lihui Zhang
- School of Stomatology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jinhong Feng
- Shandong Analysis and Test Center, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
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13
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Computational Design and Biological Evaluation of Analogs of Lupin Peptide P5 Endowed with Dual PCSK9/HMG-CoAR Inhibiting Activity. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14030665. [PMID: 35336039 PMCID: PMC8951016 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14030665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) is responsible for the degradation of the hepatic low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), which regulates the circulating cholesterol level. In this field, we discovered natural peptides derived from lupin that showed PCSK9 inhibitory activity. Among these, the most active peptide, known as P5 (LILPHKSDAD), reduced the protein-protein interaction between PCSK9 and LDLR with an IC50 equals to 1.6 µM and showed a dual hypocholesterolemic activity, since it shows complementary inhibition of the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoAR). (2) Methods: In this study, by a computational approach, the P5 primary structure was optimized to obtain new analogs with improved affinity to PCSK9. Then, biological assays were carried out for fully characterizing the dual cholesterol-lowering activity of the P5 analogs by using both biochemical and cellular techniques. (3) Results: A new peptide, P5-Best (LYLPKHSDRD) displayed improved PCSK9 (IC50 0.7 µM) and HMG-CoAR (IC50 88.9 µM) inhibitory activities. Moreover, in vitro biological assays on cells demonstrated that, not only P5-Best, but all tested peptides maintained the dual PCSK9/HMG-CoAR inhibitory activity and remarkably P5-Best exerted the strongest hypocholesterolemic effect. In fact, in the presence of this peptide, the ability of HepG2 cells to absorb extracellular LDL was improved by up to 254%. (4) Conclusions: the atomistic details of the P5-Best/PCSK9 and P5-Best/HMG-CoAR interactions represent a reliable starting point for the design of new promising molecular entities endowed with hypocholesterolemic activity.
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14
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Lebeau PF, Byun JH, Platko K, Saliba P, Sguazzin M, MacDonald ME, Paré G, Steinberg GR, Janssen LJ, Igdoura SA, Tarnopolsky MA, Wayne Chen SR, Seidah NG, Magolan J, Austin RC. Caffeine blocks SREBP2-induced hepatic PCSK9 expression to enhance LDLR-mediated cholesterol clearance. Nat Commun 2022; 13:770. [PMID: 35140212 PMCID: PMC8828868 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28240-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence suggests that caffeine (CF) reduces cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. However, the mechanism by which this occurs has not yet been uncovered. Here, we investigated the effect of CF on the expression of two bona fide regulators of circulating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc) levels; the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR). Following the observation that CF reduced circulating PCSK9 levels and increased hepatic LDLR expression, additional CF-derived analogs with increased potency for PCSK9 inhibition compared to CF itself were developed. The PCSK9-lowering effect of CF was subsequently confirmed in a cohort of healthy volunteers. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that CF increases hepatic endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ levels to block transcriptional activation of the sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 (SREBP2) responsible for the regulation of PCSK9, thereby increasing the expression of the LDLR and clearance of LDLc. Our findings highlight ER Ca2+ as a master regulator of cholesterol metabolism and identify a mechanism by which CF may protect against CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul F Lebeau
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, McMaster University, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, Hamilton, ON, L8N 4A6, Canada
| | - Jae Hyun Byun
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, McMaster University, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, Hamilton, ON, L8N 4A6, Canada
| | - Khrystyna Platko
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, McMaster University, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, Hamilton, ON, L8N 4A6, Canada
| | - Paul Saliba
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Matthew Sguazzin
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Melissa E MacDonald
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, McMaster University, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, Hamilton, ON, L8N 4A6, Canada
| | - Guillaume Paré
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8L 2X2, Canada.,The Departments of Medicine, Epidemiology and Pathology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8L 2X2, Canada.,The Thrombosis and Atherosclerosis Research Institute (TaARI), Department of Medicine, David Braley Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, L8L 2X2, Canada
| | - Gregory R Steinberg
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada.,Centre for Metabolism, Obesity and Diabetes Research, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Luke J Janssen
- Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Suleiman A Igdoura
- Department of Biology and Pathology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Mark A Tarnopolsky
- Department of Medicine/Neurology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8N 3Z5, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - S R Wayne Chen
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 2T9, Canada
| | - Nabil G Seidah
- Laboratory of Biochemical Neuroendocrinology, Clinical Research Institute of Montreal, affiliated to the University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, H2W 1R7, Canada
| | - Jakob Magolan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Richard C Austin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, McMaster University, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, Hamilton, ON, L8N 4A6, Canada. .,The Thrombosis and Atherosclerosis Research Institute (TaARI), Department of Medicine, David Braley Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, L8L 2X2, Canada.
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15
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Ahamad S, Mathew S, Khan WA, Mohanan K. Development of small-molecule PCSK9 inhibitors for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:1332-1349. [PMID: 35121175 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
When secreted into the circulation, proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) blocks the low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDL-R) and, as a consequence, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels increase. Therefore, PCSK9 has emerged as a potential therapeutic target for lowering LDL-C levels and preventing atherosclerosis. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against PCSK9, but the expensive manufacturing process limits their use. Subsequently, there have been tremendous efforts to develop cost-effective small molecules specific to PCSK9 over the past few years. These small molecules are promising therapeutics that act by preventing the synthesis of PCSK9, its secretion from cells, or the PCSK9-LDRL interaction. In this review, we summarize recent developments in the discovery of small-molecule PCSK9 inhibitors, focusing on their design, therapeutic effects, specific targets, and mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakir Ahamad
- Department of Chemistry, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202002 UP, India.
| | - Shintu Mathew
- Medicinal and Process Chemistry Division CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute Lucknow, 226031 UP, India
| | - Waqas A Khan
- Department of Chemistry, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202002 UP, India
| | - Kishor Mohanan
- Medicinal and Process Chemistry Division CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute Lucknow, 226031 UP, India.
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16
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Sun H, Wang J, Liu S, Zhou X, Dai L, Chen C, Xu Q, Wen X, Cheng K, Sun H, Yuan H. Discovery of Novel Small Molecule Inhibitors Disrupting the PCSK9-LDLR Interaction. J Chem Inf Model 2021; 61:5269-5279. [PMID: 34553597 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.1c00521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin 9 (PCSK9) has been identified as a reliable therapeutic target for hypercholesterolemia and coronary artery heart diseases since the monoclonal antibodies of PCSK9 have launched. Disrupting the protein-protein interaction (PPI) between PCSK9 and the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) has been considered as a promising approach for developing PCSK9 inhibitors. However, PPIs have been traditionally considered difficult to target by small molecules since the PPI surface is usually large, flat, featureless, and without a "pocket" or "groove" for ligand binding. The PCSK9-LDLR PPI interface is such a typical case. In this study, a potential binding pocket was generated on the PCSK9-LDLR PPI surface of PCSK9 through induced-fit docking. On the basis of this induced binding pocket, virtual screening, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, and biological evaluations have been applied for the identification of novel small molecule inhibitors of PCSK9-LDLR PPI. Among the selected compounds, compound 13 exhibited certain PCSK9-LDLR PPI inhibitory activity (IC50: 7.57 ± 1.40 μM). The direct binding affinity between 13 and PCSK9 was determined with a KD value of 2.50 ± 0.73 μM. The LDLR uptake function could be also restored to a certain extent by 13 in HepG2 cells. This well-characterized hit compound will facilitate the further development of novel small molecule inhibitors of PCSK9-LDLR PPI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengzhi Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Jinzheng Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Shengjie Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Xinyu Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Liang Dai
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Caiping Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Qinglong Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoan Wen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Keguang Cheng
- State Key Laboratory for Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Medicinal Resources, School of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Guangxi Normal University, 15 Yucai Road, Guilin 541004, P. R. China
| | - Hongbin Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
| | - Haoliang Yuan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, P. R. China
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17
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Bourbiaux K, Legrand B, Verdié P, Mallart S, Manette G, Minoletti C, Stepp JD, Prigent P, Le Bail JC, Gauzy-Lazo L, Duclos O, Martinez J, Amblard M. Potent Lys Patch-Containing Stapled Peptides Targeting PCSK9. J Med Chem 2021; 64:10834-10848. [PMID: 34266235 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c02051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), identified as a regulator of low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), plays a major role in cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Recently, Pep2-8, a small peptide with discrete three-dimensional structure, was found to inhibit the PCSK9/LDLR interaction. In this paper, we describe the modification of this peptide using stapled peptide and SIP technologies. Their combination yielded potent compounds such as 18 that potently inhibited the binding of PCSK9 to LDLR (KD = 6 ± 1 nM) and restored in vitro LDL uptake by HepG2 cells in the presence of PCSK9 (EC50 = 175 ± 40 nM). The three-dimensional structures of key peptides were extensively studied by circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance, and molecular dynamics simulations allowed us to compare their binding mode to tentatively rationalize structure-activity relationships (SAR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kévin Bourbiaux
- IBMM, ENSCM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, 34093 Montpellier, France.,Sanofi Aventis R&D, 1 Avenue Pierre Brossolette, 91380 Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Baptiste Legrand
- IBMM, ENSCM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, 34093 Montpellier, France
| | - Pascal Verdié
- IBMM, ENSCM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, 34093 Montpellier, France
| | - Sergio Mallart
- Sanofi Aventis R&D, 1 Avenue Pierre Brossolette, 91380 Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Géraldine Manette
- Sanofi Aventis R&D, 1 Avenue Pierre Brossolette, 91380 Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Claire Minoletti
- Sanofi Aventis R&D, 1 Avenue Pierre Brossolette, 91380 Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - J David Stepp
- Sanofi, 153 2nd Avenue, Waltham, Massachusetts 02451, United States
| | - Philippe Prigent
- Sanofi Aventis R&D, 1 Avenue Pierre Brossolette, 91380 Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | | | - Laurence Gauzy-Lazo
- Sanofi Aventis R&D, 1 Avenue Pierre Brossolette, 91380 Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Olivier Duclos
- Sanofi Aventis R&D, 1 Avenue Pierre Brossolette, 91380 Chilly-Mazarin, France
| | - Jean Martinez
- IBMM, ENSCM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, 34093 Montpellier, France
| | - Muriel Amblard
- IBMM, ENSCM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, 34093 Montpellier, France
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18
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Tombling BJ, Zhang Y, Huang YH, Craik DJ, Wang CK. The emerging landscape of peptide-based inhibitors of PCSK9. Atherosclerosis 2021; 330:52-60. [PMID: 34246818 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2021.06.903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a clinically validated target for treating cardiovascular disease (CVD) due to its involvement in cholesterol metabolism. Although approved monoclonal antibodies (alirocumab and evolocumab) that inhibit PCSK9 function are very effective in lowering cholesterol, their limitations, including high treatment costs, have so far prohibited widespread use. Accordingly, there is great interest in alternative drug modalities to antibodies. Like antibodies, peptides are valuable therapeutics due to their high target potency and specificity. Furthermore, being smaller than antibodies means they have access to more drug administration options, are less likely to induce adverse immunogenic responses, and are better suited to affordable production. This review surveys the current peptide-based landscape aimed towards PCSK9 inhibition, covering pre-clinical to patented drug candidates and comparing them to current cholesterol lowering therapeutics. Classes of peptides reported to be inhibitors include nature-inspired disulfide-rich peptides, combinatorially derived cyclic peptides, and peptidomimetics. Their functional activities have been validated in biophysical and cellular assays, and in some cases pre-clinical mouse models. Recent efforts report peptides with potent sub-nanomolar binding affinities to PCSK9, which highlights their potential to achieve antibody-like potency. Studies are beginning to address pharmacokinetic properties of PCSK9-targeting peptides in more detail. We conclude by highlighting opportunities to investigate their biological effects in pre-clinical models of cardiovascular disease. The anticipation concerning the PCSK9-targeting peptide landscape is accelerating and it seems likely that a peptide-based therapeutic for treating PCSK9-mediated hypercholesterolemia may be clinically available in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Tombling
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, 4072, Australia
| | - Yuhui Zhang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, 4072, Australia
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, 4072, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, 4072, Australia
| | - Conan K Wang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, 4072, Australia.
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19
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Trans-Epithelial Transport, Metabolism, and Biological Activity Assessment of the Multi-Target Lupin Peptide LILPKHSDAD (P5) and Its Metabolite LPKHSDAD (P5-Met). Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13030863. [PMID: 33808034 PMCID: PMC8000724 DOI: 10.3390/nu13030863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
P5 (LILPKHSDAD) is a hypocholesterolemic peptide from lupin protein with a multi-target activity, since it inhibits both 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCoAR) and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 (PCSK9). This work shows that, during epithelial transport experiments, the metabolic transformation mediated by intestinal peptidases produces two main detected peptides, ILPKHSDAD (P5-frag) and LPKHSDAD (P5-met), and that both P5 and P5-met are linearly absorbed by differentiated human intestinal Caco-2 cells. Extensive comparative structural, biochemical, and cellular characterizations of P5-met and the parent peptide P5 demonstrate that both peptides have unique characteristics and share the same mechanisms of action. In fact, they exert an intrinsically multi-target behavior being able to regulate cholesterol metabolism by modulating different pathways. The results of this study also highlight the dynamic nature of bioactive peptides that may be modulated by the biological systems they get in contact with.
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20
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Iqbal N, Yaqoob M, Javed M, Abbasi M, Iqbal J, Iqbal MA. Synthesis in combination with Biological and Computational evaluations of selenium-N-Heterocyclic Carbene compounds. COMPUT THEOR CHEM 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.comptc.2020.113135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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21
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Tombling BJ, Lammi C, Lawrence N, Li J, Arnoldi A, Craik DJ, Wang CK. Engineered EGF-A Peptides with Improved Affinity for Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9). ACS Chem Biol 2021; 16:429-439. [PMID: 33512150 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.0c00991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The epidermal growth-factor-like domain A (EGF-A) of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor is a promising lead for therapeutic inhibition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9). However, the clinical potential of EGF-A is limited by its suboptimal affinity for PCSK9. Here, we use phage display to identify EGF-A analogues with extended bioactive segments that have improved affinity for PCSK9. The most potent analogue, TEX-S2_03, demonstrated ∼130-fold improved affinity over the parent domain and had a reduced calcium dependency for efficient PCSK9 binding. Thermodynamic binding analysis suggests the improved affinity of TEX-S2_03 is enthalpically driven, indicating favorable interactions are formed between the extended segment of TEX-S2_03 and the PCSK9 surface. The improved affinity of TEX-S2_03 resulted in increased activity in competition binding assays and more efficient restoration of LDL receptor levels with clearance of extracellular LDL cholesterol in functional cell assays. These results confirm that TEX-S2_03 is a promising therapeutic lead for treating hypercholesterolemia. Many EGF-like domains are involved in disease-related protein-protein interactions; therefore, our strategy for engineering EGF-like domains has the potential to be broadly implemented in EGF-based drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J. Tombling
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Carmen Lammi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Nicole Lawrence
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Jianqiang Li
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Arnoldi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Conan K. Wang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
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22
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Tombling BJ, Lammi C, Lawrence N, Gilding EK, Grazioso G, Craik DJ, Wang CK. Bioactive Cyclization Optimizes the Affinity of a Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9) Peptide Inhibitor. J Med Chem 2020; 64:2523-2533. [PMID: 33356222 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Peptides are regarded as promising next-generation therapeutics. However, an analysis of over 1000 bioactive peptide candidates suggests that many have underdeveloped affinities and could benefit from cyclization using a bridging linker sequence. Until now, the primary focus has been on the use of inert peptide linkers. Here, we show that affinity can be significantly improved by enriching the linker with functional amino acids. We engineered a peptide inhibitor of PCSK9, a target for clinical management of hypercholesterolemia, to demonstrate this concept. Cyclization linker optimization from library screening produced a cyclic peptide with ∼100-fold improved activity over the parent peptide and efficiently restored low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor levels and cleared extracellular LDL. The linker forms favorable interactions with PCSK9 as evidenced by thermodynamics, structure-activity relationship (SAR), NMR, and molecular dynamics (MD) studies. This PCSK9 inhibitor is one of many peptides that could benefit from bioactive cyclization, a strategy that is amenable to broad application in pharmaceutical design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Tombling
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Carmen Lammi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Nicole Lawrence
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Edward K Gilding
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Giovanni Grazioso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Conan K Wang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia
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23
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Zhao Y, Li H, Sun P, Gao L, Liu J, Zhou S, Xiong L, Yang N, Li Y, Li Z. Synthesis, biological activities, and SAR studies of novel 1-(2-chloro-4,5-difluorophenyl)-1H-pyrazole derivatives. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2020; 30:127535. [PMID: 32898692 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2020.127535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In order to search for the new ryanodine receptor (RyR) regulator, a series of 35 novel fluoro-substituted compounds introduced 1-(2-chloro-4,5-difluorophenyl)-1H-pyrazole moiety containing modified pyrazole heterocycle were designed and synthesized. Then, they were tested for the insecticidal activities against Mythimna separata and Plutella xylostella in our greenhouse. After a systematic biological screening, it was found out that IVc showed 50% larvicidal activities against Mythimna separata at 0.1 mg L-1, equivalent to that of chlorantraniliprole (36%, 0.1 mg L-1). The activity of IVc against Plutella xylostella was 90% at 10-5 mg L-1, whereas the chlorantraniliprole was 70% at the same concentration. Then, insect electrophysiology experiments were conducted to study the pattern of action of IVc and IVe. It was confirmed by the experimental results that both compounds could lead to the release of calcium from the endoplasmic reticulum of neurons as classical anthranilic diamide insecticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Huangong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Pengwei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Li Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Jingbo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Sha Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Lixia Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Na Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Yuxin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
| | - Zhengming Li
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Elemento-Organic Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
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24
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Sgrignani J, Fassi EMA, Lammi C, Roda G, Grazioso G. Exploring Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin 9 (PCSK9) Autoproteolysis Process by Molecular Simulations: Hints for Drug Design. ChemMedChem 2020; 15:1601-1607. [PMID: 32558225 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202000431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) is a notable target for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia because it regulates the population of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) on liver cells. The PCSK9 zymogen is a serine protease that spontaneously undergoes a double self-cleavage step. Available X-ray structures depict the PCSK9 mature state, but the atomic details of the zymogen state of the enzyme are still unknown. Additionally, why the protease activity of PCSK9 is blocked after the second autoprocessing step remains unclear, as this deviates from other members of the PCSK family. By performing constant-pH molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we investigated the protonation state of the catalytic triad of PCSK9 and found that it strongly influences the catalytic properties of the enzyme. Moreover, we determined the final step of the maturation process by classical and steered MD simulations. This study could facilitate the identification of ligands capable of interfering with the PCSK9 maturation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Sgrignani
- Istituto di Ricerca in Biomedicina (IRB), Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI), Via V. Vela 6, 6500, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Enrico M A Fassi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Carmen Lammi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Gabriella Roda
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Grazioso
- Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via L. Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milano, Italy
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25
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Zheng X, Ma Z, Zhang D. Synthesis of Imidazole-Based Medicinal Molecules Utilizing the van Leusen Imidazole Synthesis. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13030037. [PMID: 32138202 PMCID: PMC7151684 DOI: 10.3390/ph13030037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Imidazole and its derivatives are one of the most vital and universal heterocycles in medicinal chemistry. Owing to their special structural features, these compounds exhibit a widespread spectrum of significant pharmacological or biological activities, and are widely researched and applied by pharmaceutical companies for drug discovery. The van Leusen reaction based on tosylmethylisocyanides (TosMICs) is one of the most appropriate strategies to synthetize imidazole-based medicinal molecules, which has been increasingly developed on account of its advantages. In this review, we summarize the recent developments of the chemical synthesis and bioactivity of imidazole-containing medicinal small molecules, utilizing the van Leusen imidazole synthesis from 1977.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xunan Zheng
- College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (X.Z.); (Z.M.)
- College of Plant Science, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Zhengning Ma
- College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (X.Z.); (Z.M.)
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Dawei Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (X.Z.); (Z.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-431-8783-6471
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26
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Burdick DJ, Skelton NJ, Ultsch M, Beresini MH, Eigenbrot C, Li W, Zhang Y, Nguyen H, Kong-Beltran M, Quinn JG, Kirchhofer D. Design of Organo-Peptides As Bipartite PCSK9 Antagonists. ACS Chem Biol 2020; 15:425-436. [PMID: 31962046 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.9b00899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) has become an important therapeutic target for lipid lowering, since it regulates low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) levels by binding to liver LDL receptors (LDLR) and effecting their intracellular degradation. However, the development of small molecule inhibitors is hampered by the lack of attractive PCSK9 target sites. We recently discovered helical peptides that are able to bind to a cryptic groove site on PCSK9, which is situated in proximity to the main LDLR binding site. Here, we designed potent bipartite PCSK9 inhibitors by appending organic moieties to a helical groove-binding peptide to reach a hydrophobic pocket in the proximal LDLR binding region. The ultimately designed 1-amino-4-phenylcyclohexane-1-carbonyl extension improved the peptide affinity by >100-fold, yielding organo-peptide antagonists that potently inhibited PCSK9 binding to LDLR and preserved cellular LDLR. These new bipartite antagonists have reduced mass and improved potency compared to the first-generation peptide antagonists, further validating the PCSK9 groove as a viable therapeutic target site.
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