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Ågmo A. Androgen receptors and sociosexual behaviors in mammals: The limits of generalization. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 157:105530. [PMID: 38176634 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105530] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Circulating testosterone is easily aromatized to estradiol and reduced to dihydrotestosterone in target tissues and elsewhere in the body. Thus, the actions of testosterone can be mediated either by the estrogen receptors, the androgen receptor or by simultaneous action at both receptors. To determine the role of androgens acting at the androgen receptor, we need to eliminate actions at the estrogen receptors. Alternatively, actions at the androgen receptor itself can be eliminated. In the present review, I will analyze the specific role of androgen receptors in male and female sexual behavior as well as in aggression. Some comments about androgen receptors and social recognition are also made. It will be shown that there are important differences between species, even between strains within a species, concerning the actions of the androgen receptor on the behaviors mentioned. This fact makes generalizations from one species to another or from one strain to another very risky. The existence of important species differences is often ignored, leading to many misunderstandings and much confusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Ågmo
- Department of Psychology, University of Tromsø, Norway.
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2
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Hoffmann DB, Derout C, Müller-Reiter M, Böker KO, Schilling AF, Roch PJ, Lehmann W, Saul D, Hawellek T, Taudien S, Sehmisch S, Komrakova M. Effects of ligandrol as a selective androgen receptor modulator in a rat model for osteoporosis. J Bone Miner Metab 2023; 41:741-751. [PMID: 37407738 DOI: 10.1007/s00774-023-01453-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The selective androgen receptor modulator ligandrol (LGD-4033 or VK5211) has been shown to improve muscle tissue. In the present study, the effect of ligandrol on bone tissue was investigated in ovariectomized rat model. MATERIALS AND METHODS Three-month-old Sprague Dawley rats were either ovariectomized (OVX, n = 60) or left intact (NON-OVX, n = 15). After 9 weeks, OVX rats were divided into four groups: untreated OVX (n = 15) group and three OVX groups (each of 15 rats) treated with ligandrol orally at doses of 0.03, 0.3, or 3 mg/kg body weight. After five weeks, lumbar vertebral bodies (L), tibiae, and femora were examined using micro-computed tomographical, biomechanical, ashing, and gene expression analyses. RESULTS In the 3-mg ligandrol group, bone structural properties were improved (trabecular number: 38 ± 8 vs. 35 ± 7 (femur), 26 ± 7 vs. 22 ± 6 (L), 12 ± 5 vs. 6 ± 3 (tibia) and serum phosphorus levels (1.81 ± 0.17 vs.1.41 ± 0.17 mmol/l), uterus (0.43 ± 0.04 vs. 0.11 ± 0.02 g), and heart (1.13 ± 0.11 vs. 1.01 ± 0.08 g) weights were increased compared to the OVX group. Biomechanical parameters were not changed. Low and medium doses did not affect bone tissue and had fewer side effects. Body weight and food intake were not affected by ligandrol; OVX led to an increase in these parameters and worsened all bone parameters. CONCLUSION Ligandrol at high dose showed a subtle anabolic effect on structural properties without any improvement in biomechanical properties of osteoporotic bones. Considering side effects of ligandrol at this dose, its further investigation for the therapy of postmenopausal osteoporosis should be reevaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B Hoffmann
- Department of Trauma, Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgery, Georg-August-University of Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany.
| | - Christoph Derout
- Department of Trauma, Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgery, Georg-August-University of Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Max Müller-Reiter
- Department of Trauma, Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgery, Georg-August-University of Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Kai O Böker
- Department of Trauma, Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgery, Georg-August-University of Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Arndt F Schilling
- Department of Trauma, Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgery, Georg-August-University of Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Paul J Roch
- Department of Trauma, Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgery, Georg-August-University of Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Lehmann
- Department of Trauma, Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgery, Georg-August-University of Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Dominik Saul
- Department of Trauma, Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgery, Georg-August-University of Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
- Department of Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, BG Trauma Center Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Thelonius Hawellek
- Department of Trauma, Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgery, Georg-August-University of Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Stefan Taudien
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Subdivision of General Hygiene and Environmental Health, University of Goettingen, Humboldallee 34a, 37073, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Stephan Sehmisch
- Department of Trauma, Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgery, Georg-August-University of Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Hannover Medical School, University of Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marina Komrakova
- Department of Trauma, Orthopaedic and Plastic Surgery, Georg-August-University of Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
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Hwang DJ, He Y, Ponnusamy S, Thiyagarajan T, Mohler ML, Narayanan R, Miller DD. Metabolism-Guided Selective Androgen Receptor Antagonists: Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation for Activity against Enzalutamide-Resistant Prostate Cancer. J Med Chem 2023; 66:3372-3392. [PMID: 36825758 PMCID: PMC10243532 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
A major challenge for new drug discovery in the area of androgen receptor (AR) antagonists lies in predicting the druggable properties that will enable small molecules to retain their potency and stability during further studies in vitro and in vivo. Indole (compound 8) is a first-in-class AR antagonist with very high potency (IC50 = 0.085 μM) but is metabolically unstable. During the metabolic studies described herein, we synthesized new small molecules that exhibit significantly improved stability while retaining potent antagonistic activity for an AR. This structure-activity relationship (SAR) study of more than 50 compounds classified with three classes (Class I, II, and III) and discovered two compounds (32c and 35i) that are potent AR antagonists (e.g., IC50 = 0.021 μM, T1/2 = 120 min for compound 35i). The new antagonists exhibited improved in vivo pharmacokinetics (PK) with high efficacy antiandrogen activity in Hershberger and antiandrogen Enz-Res tumor xenograft models that overexpress AR (LNCaP-AR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Jin Hwang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Yali He
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Suriyan Ponnusamy
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Thirumagal Thiyagarajan
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Michael L Mohler
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Ramesh Narayanan
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Duane D Miller
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
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4
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Kim NN. Testosterone and Female Sexual Desire: Direct or Indirect Effects? J Sex Med 2021; 19:5-7. [PMID: 34848139 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Noel N Kim
- Institute for Sexual Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA.
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5
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Kadekawa K, Kawamorita N, Shimizu T, Kurobe M, Turnbull PS, Chandra S, Kambara T, Barton JC, Russell AJ, Yoshimura N. Effects of a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM), GSK2849466A, on stress urinary incontinence and bladder activity in rats with ovariectomy-induced oestrogen deficiency. BJU Int 2020; 125:911-919. [PMID: 32011085 DOI: 10.1111/bju.15022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To report the effect of a selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) on the urethral continence mechanisms in a rat model of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) induced by bilateral ovariectomy (OVX). MATERIALS AND METHODS Female Sprague-Dawley rats with bilateral OVX were used. Rats were divided into five groups; sham operated, vehicle-treated OVX, low-dose SARM-treated OVX (GSK2849466A: 0.005 mg/kg/day, per os [p.o.]), high-dose SARM-treated OVX (GSK2849466A: 0.03 mg/kg/day, p.o.) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-treated OVX (1 mg/kg/day, subcutaneous) groups. After 4 weeks of SARM treatments or 3 weeks of DHT treatment (6 weeks after OVX), rats were subjected to evaluation of the sneeze-induced continence reflex using microtransducer-tipped catheter methods, sneeze-induced leak-point pressure, and continuous cystometry measurements, followed by histological analyses of urethral tissues. RESULTS (i) OVX significantly impaired urethral continence function after 6 weeks to induce SUI during sneezing. (ii) Low-dose SARM treatment restored urethral baseline pressure (UBP) without affecting the amplitude of urethral response during sneezing (A-URS), partially reversing OVX-induced SUI during sneezing. (iii) High-dose SARM treatment reversed decreases in both UBP and A-URS, more effectively preventing SUI during sneezing. (iv) DHT treatment only restored A-URS without affecting UBP, partially preventing OVX-induced SUI during sneezing. (v) The high-dose SARM treatment induced hypertrophy of the striated and smooth muscle around the urethra. (vi) SARM treatment did not affect bladder function in sham or OVX rats. CONCLUSION Treatment with SARMs could be a more effective modality for the treatment of SUI than DHT, without affecting bladder function, by enhancing smooth- and striated muscle-mediated urethral function under stress conditions such as sneezing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsumi Kadekawa
- Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Naoki Kawamorita
- Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Takahiro Shimizu
- Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Masahiro Kurobe
- Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Sundeep Chandra
- Muscle Metabolism DPU, GlaxoSmithKline, King of Prussia, PA, USA
| | - Takahito Kambara
- Pathology, Translational Medicine & Comparative Pathobiology, GlaxoSmithKline, King of Prussia, PA, USA
| | - Joanna C Barton
- Muscle Metabolism DPU, GlaxoSmithKline, King of Prussia, PA, USA
| | - Alan J Russell
- Muscle Metabolism DPU, GlaxoSmithKline, King of Prussia, PA, USA
| | - Naoki Yoshimura
- Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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6
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Christiansen AR, Lipshultz LI, Hotaling JM, Pastuszak AW. Selective androgen receptor modulators: the future of androgen therapy? Transl Androl Urol 2020; 9:S135-S148. [PMID: 32257854 PMCID: PMC7108998 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2019.11.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) are small molecule drugs that function as either androgen receptor (AR) agonists or antagonists. Variability in AR regulatory proteins in target tissues permits SARMs to selectively elicit anabolic benefits while eschewing the pitfalls of traditional androgen therapy. SARMs have few side effects and excellent oral and transdermal bioavailability and may, therefore, represent viable alternatives to current androgen therapies. SARMs have been studied as possible therapies for many conditions, including osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, breast cancer, stress urinary incontinence (SUI), prostate cancer (PCa), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), male contraception, hypogonadism, Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), and sarcopenia/muscle wasting/cancer cachexia. While there are no indications for SARMs currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), many potential applications are still being explored, and results are promising. In this review, we examine the literature assessing the use of SARMS for a number of indications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Larry I Lipshultz
- Scott Department of Urology.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - James M Hotaling
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Alexander W Pastuszak
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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7
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Jones SL, Rosenbaum S, Gardner Gregory J, Pfaus JG. Aromatization Is Not Required for the Facilitation of Appetitive Sexual Behaviors in Ovariectomized Rats Treated With Estradiol and Testosterone. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:798. [PMID: 31447629 PMCID: PMC6691068 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Testosterone can be safely and effectively administered to estrogen-treated post-menopausal women experiencing hypoactive sexual desire. However, in the United States and Canada, although it is often administered off-label, testosterone co-administered with estradiol is not a federally approved treatment for sexual arousal/desire disorder, partly because its mechanism is poorly understood. One possible mechanism involves the aromatization of testosterone to estradiol. In an animal model, the administration of testosterone propionate (TP) given in combination with estradiol benzoate (EB) significantly increases sexually appetitive behaviors (i.e., solicitations and hops/darts) in ovariectomized (OVX) Long-Evans rats, compared to those treated with EB-alone. The goal of current study was to test whether blocking aromatization of testosterone to estradiol would disrupt the facilitation of sexual behaviors in OVX Long-Evans rats, and to determine group differences in Fos immunoreactivity within brain regions involved in sexual motivation and reward. Groups of sexually experienced OVX Long-Evans rats were treated with EB alone, EB+TP, or EB+TP and the aromatase inhibitor Fadrozole (EB+TP+FAD). Females treated with EB+TP+FAD displayed significantly more hops and darts, solicitations and lordosis magnitudes when compared to EB-alone females. Furthermore, TP, administered with or without FAD, induced the activation of Fos-immunoreactivity in brain areas implicated in sexual motivation and reward including the medial preoptic area, ventrolateral division of the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus, the nucleus accumbens core, and the prefrontal cortex. These results suggest that aromatization may not be necessary for TP to enhance female sexual behavior and that EB+TP may act via androgenic pathways to increase the sensitivity of response to male-related cues, to induce female sexual desire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherri Lee Jones
- Department of Psychology, Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Stephanie Rosenbaum
- Department of Psychology, Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - James Gardner Gregory
- Department of Psychology, Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - James G Pfaus
- Department of Psychology, Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Concordia University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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8
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Hoffmann DB, Komrakova M, Pflug S, von Oertzen M, Saul D, Weiser L, Walde TA, Wassmann M, Schilling AF, Lehmann W, Sehmisch S. Evaluation of ostarine as a selective androgen receptor modulator in a rat model of postmenopausal osteoporosis. J Bone Miner Metab 2019; 37:243-255. [PMID: 29785666 DOI: 10.1007/s00774-018-0929-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) have shown beneficial effects on muscle wasting, general physical function and bone properties in male mammals. However, data on the effects of SARMs in postmenopausal osteoporotic bone are scarce. We evaluated the effects of the SARM drug ostarine on postmenopausal osteoporotic bone in a rat osteoporosis model. Ovariectomy was performed on 46 of 56 3-month-old female Sprague-Dawley rats. Eight weeks after ovariectomy, ostarine was orally administered daily for 5 weeks in dosages of 0.04 (low, OVX + Ost. 0.04), 0.4 (intermediate, OVX + Ost. 0.4), and 4 mg/kg (high, OVX + Ost. 4) body weight. Another ovariectomized group received no ostarine. Lumbar vertebrae and femora were removed for biomechanical, gene expression, ashing, and computer tomography analyses. Low dose showed no effects. The effects of intermediate and high doses were comparable overall. Improvements were mainly seen in structural properties such as bone mineral density and bone volume density. However, the effects in femora were superior to effects in vertebrae. Ostarine treatment for 5 weeks did not improve significantly biomechanical properties. mRNA expression of the receptor activator of NF-κB ligand decreased after treatment, and uterine weight increased. Serum levels of phosphorus increased following ostarine treatment in intermediate and high-dose groups. Short-term treatment of osteoporotic bone with ostarine leads to improvement of several microstructural bone indices. While we did not observe changes in biomechanics, it is conceivable that longer treatment may also improve biomechanical properties. Further studies are needed to characterize longer time effects and side effects of ostarine in osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- D B Hoffmann
- Department of Trauma-, Orthopaedic- and Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany.
| | - M Komrakova
- Department of Trauma-, Orthopaedic- and Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - S Pflug
- Department of Trauma-, Orthopaedic- and Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - M von Oertzen
- Department of Trauma-, Orthopaedic- and Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - D Saul
- Department of Trauma-, Orthopaedic- and Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - L Weiser
- Department of Trauma-, Orthopaedic- and Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - T A Walde
- Department of Trauma-, Orthopaedic- and Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - M Wassmann
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Subdivision of General Hygiene and Environmental Health, University of Goettingen, Humboldallee 34a, 37073, Goettingen, Germany
| | - A F Schilling
- Department of Trauma-, Orthopaedic- and Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - W Lehmann
- Department of Trauma-, Orthopaedic- and Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
| | - S Sehmisch
- Department of Trauma-, Orthopaedic- and Plastic Surgery, University Medical Center Goettingen, Robert Koch St. No. 40, 37075, Goettingen, Germany
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9
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Sutter B, Fehr M, Hartmann C, Schmid S, Zitzmann M, Stute P. Androgen receptor gene polymorphism and sexual function in midlife women. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2019; 299:1173-1183. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-019-05052-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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10
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Hwang DJ, He Y, Ponnusamy S, Mohler ML, Thiyagarajan T, McEwan IJ, Narayanan R, Miller DD. New Generation of Selective Androgen Receptor Degraders: Our Initial Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of New Compounds with Enzalutamide-Resistant Prostate Cancer Activity. J Med Chem 2018; 62:491-511. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b00973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Jin Hwang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Yali He
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Suriyan Ponnusamy
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Michael L. Mohler
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
- GTx, Inc., Memphis, Tennessee 38103, United States
| | - Thirumagal Thiyagarajan
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Iain J. McEwan
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, Scotland, U.K
| | - Ramesh Narayanan
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Duane D. Miller
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
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11
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Solomon ZJ, Mirabal JR, Mazur DJ, Kohn TP, Lipshultz LI, Pastuszak AW. Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators: Current Knowledge and Clinical Applications. Sex Med Rev 2018; 7:84-94. [PMID: 30503797 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2018.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) differentially bind to androgen receptors depending on each SARM's chemical structure. As a result, SARMs result in anabolic cellular activity while avoiding many of the side effects of currently available anabolic steroids. SARMs have been studied in the treatment of breast cancer and cachexia and have also been used as performance-enhancing agents. Here, we evaluate and summarize the current literature on SARMs. AIM To present the background, mechanisms, current and potential clinical applications, as well as risks and benefits of SARMs. METHODS A literature review was performed in MEDLINE using the terms selective androgen receptor modulator, hypogonadism, cachexia, breast cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, libido, and lean muscle mass. Both basic research and clinical studies were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE To complete a review of peer-reviewed literature. RESULTS Although there are currently no U.S. Food and Drug Agency-approved indications for SARMs, investigators are exploring the potential uses for these compounds. Basic research has focused on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of these agents, demonstrating good availability with a paucity of drug interactions. Early clinical studies have demonstrated potential uses for SARMs in the treatment of cancer-related cachexia, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), hypogonadism, and breast cancer, with positive results. CONCLUSION SARMs have numerous possible clinical applications, with promise for the safe use in the treatment of cachexia, BPH, hypogonadism, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. Solomon ZJ, Mirabal JR, Mazur DJ, et al. Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators: Current Knowledge and Clinical Applications. Sex Med Rev 2019;7:84-94.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Taylor P Kohn
- Brady Urological Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Larry I Lipshultz
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Urology Associates, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Alexander W Pastuszak
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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12
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Unwalla R, Mousseau JJ, Fadeyi OO, Choi C, Parris K, Hu B, Kenney T, Chippari S, McNally C, Vishwanathan K, Kilbourne E, Thompson C, Nagpal S, Wrobel J, Yudt M, Morris CA, Powell D, Gilbert AM, Chekler ELP. Structure-Based Approach To Identify 5-[4-Hydroxyphenyl]pyrrole-2-carbonitrile Derivatives as Potent and Tissue Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators. J Med Chem 2017; 60:6451-6457. [PMID: 28696695 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b00373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In an effort to find new and safer treatments for osteoporosis and frailty, we describe a novel series of selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs). Using a structure-based approach, we identified compound 7, a potent AR (ARE EC50 = 0.34 nM) and selective (N/C interaction EC50 = 1206 nM) modulator. In vivo data, an AR LBD X-ray structure of 7, and further insights from modeling studies of ligand receptor interactions are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ray Unwalla
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - James J Mousseau
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Olugbeminiyi O Fadeyi
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Chulho Choi
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Kevin Parris
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Baihua Hu
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Thomas Kenney
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Susan Chippari
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Christopher McNally
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Karthick Vishwanathan
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Edward Kilbourne
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Catherine Thompson
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Sunil Nagpal
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Jay Wrobel
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Matthew Yudt
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Carl A Morris
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Dennis Powell
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Adam M Gilbert
- Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development , 610 Main Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
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13
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Male hypogonadism is characterized by inadequate production of Testosterone (T) (hypoandrogenism) and deficiencies in spermatogenesis. The main treatment of male hypogonadism is T replacement therapy (TRT), but for some of the patients, alternative drugs may be more suitable. AREAS COVERED The available literature of T and alternative treatments for male hypogonadism are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Transdermal application of T gels are the most commonly used route of T administration. Some oral T formulations are either associated with hepatic toxicity (i.e. methyltestosterone) or short half-lives that require multiple doses per day (i.e. oral testosterone undecanoate). Short acting, injectable T formulations are also available. If the patient prefers not to use daily drugs or short acting injectable formulations, depot formulations such as injectable testosterone undecanoate (TU) may be a good alternative. If the patient has hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and desires fertility or if he is adolescent, instead of TRT, gonadotropins can be started to stimulate testicular growth and spermatogenesis. In obese patients or for the patients having high risks for TRT, off label aromatase inhibitors (AI) and clomiphene citrate (CC), may be considered to stimulate LH, FSH and T levels. In patients with high prostate disease risk, selective androgen receptor modulators may be an alternative treatment but these latter treatments have not had high level evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aydogan Aydogdu
- a Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine , Harbor-UCLA Medical Center , Torrance , CA , USA.,b Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism , Gulhane School of Medicine , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Ronald S Swerdloff
- a Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine , Harbor-UCLA Medical Center , Torrance , CA , USA
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14
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Pi M, Kapoor K, Wu Y, Ye R, Senogles SE, Nishimoto SK, Hwang DJ, Miller DD, Narayanan R, Smith JC, Baudry J, Quarles LD. Structural and Functional Evidence for Testosterone Activation of GPRC6A in Peripheral Tissues. Mol Endocrinol 2015; 29:1759-73. [PMID: 26440882 DOI: 10.1210/me.2015-1161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family C group 6 member A (GPRC6A) is a multiligand GPCR that is activated by cations, L-amino acids, and osteocalcin. GPRC6A plays an important role in the regulation of testosterone (T) production and energy metabolism in mice. T has rapid, transcription-independent (nongenomic) effects that are mediated by a putative GPCR. We previously found that T can activate GPRC6A in vitro, but the possibility that T is a ligand for GPRC6A remains controversial. Here, we demonstrate direct T binding to GPRC6A and construct computational structural models of GPRC6A that are used to identify potential binding poses of T. Mutations of the predicted binding site residues were experimentally found to block T activation of GPRC6A, in agreement with the modeling. Using Gpr6ca(-/-) mice, we confirmed that loss of GPRC6A resulted in loss of T rapid signaling responses and elucidated several biological functions regulated by GPRC6A-dependent T rapid signaling, including T stimulation of insulin secretion in pancreatic islets and enzyme expression involved in the biosynthesis of T in Leydig cells. Finally, we identified a stereo-specific effect of an R-isomer of a selective androgen receptor modulator that is predicted to bind to and shown to activate GPRC6A but not androgen receptor. Together, our data show that GPRC6A directly mediates the rapid signaling response to T and uncovers previously unrecognized endocrine networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Pi
- Departments of Medicine (M.P., Y.W., R.Y., R.N., L.D.Q.) and Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry (S.E.S., S.K.N.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.-J.H., D.D.M.), College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163; University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics (K.K., J.C.S., J.B.), Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830; and Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology (J.C.S., J.B.), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
| | - Karan Kapoor
- Departments of Medicine (M.P., Y.W., R.Y., R.N., L.D.Q.) and Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry (S.E.S., S.K.N.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.-J.H., D.D.M.), College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163; University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics (K.K., J.C.S., J.B.), Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830; and Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology (J.C.S., J.B.), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
| | - Yunpeng Wu
- Departments of Medicine (M.P., Y.W., R.Y., R.N., L.D.Q.) and Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry (S.E.S., S.K.N.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.-J.H., D.D.M.), College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163; University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics (K.K., J.C.S., J.B.), Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830; and Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology (J.C.S., J.B.), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
| | - Ruisong Ye
- Departments of Medicine (M.P., Y.W., R.Y., R.N., L.D.Q.) and Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry (S.E.S., S.K.N.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.-J.H., D.D.M.), College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163; University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics (K.K., J.C.S., J.B.), Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830; and Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology (J.C.S., J.B.), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
| | - Susan E Senogles
- Departments of Medicine (M.P., Y.W., R.Y., R.N., L.D.Q.) and Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry (S.E.S., S.K.N.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.-J.H., D.D.M.), College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163; University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics (K.K., J.C.S., J.B.), Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830; and Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology (J.C.S., J.B.), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
| | - Satoru K Nishimoto
- Departments of Medicine (M.P., Y.W., R.Y., R.N., L.D.Q.) and Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry (S.E.S., S.K.N.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.-J.H., D.D.M.), College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163; University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics (K.K., J.C.S., J.B.), Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830; and Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology (J.C.S., J.B.), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
| | - Dong-Jin Hwang
- Departments of Medicine (M.P., Y.W., R.Y., R.N., L.D.Q.) and Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry (S.E.S., S.K.N.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.-J.H., D.D.M.), College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163; University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics (K.K., J.C.S., J.B.), Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830; and Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology (J.C.S., J.B.), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
| | - Duane D Miller
- Departments of Medicine (M.P., Y.W., R.Y., R.N., L.D.Q.) and Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry (S.E.S., S.K.N.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.-J.H., D.D.M.), College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163; University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics (K.K., J.C.S., J.B.), Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830; and Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology (J.C.S., J.B.), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
| | - Ramesh Narayanan
- Departments of Medicine (M.P., Y.W., R.Y., R.N., L.D.Q.) and Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry (S.E.S., S.K.N.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.-J.H., D.D.M.), College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163; University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics (K.K., J.C.S., J.B.), Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830; and Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology (J.C.S., J.B.), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
| | - Jeremy C Smith
- Departments of Medicine (M.P., Y.W., R.Y., R.N., L.D.Q.) and Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry (S.E.S., S.K.N.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.-J.H., D.D.M.), College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163; University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics (K.K., J.C.S., J.B.), Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830; and Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology (J.C.S., J.B.), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
| | - Jerome Baudry
- Departments of Medicine (M.P., Y.W., R.Y., R.N., L.D.Q.) and Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry (S.E.S., S.K.N.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.-J.H., D.D.M.), College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163; University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics (K.K., J.C.S., J.B.), Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830; and Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology (J.C.S., J.B.), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
| | - L Darryl Quarles
- Departments of Medicine (M.P., Y.W., R.Y., R.N., L.D.Q.) and Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry (S.E.S., S.K.N.), and Pharmaceutical Sciences (D.-J.H., D.D.M.), College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163; University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics (K.K., J.C.S., J.B.), Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830; and Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology (J.C.S., J.B.), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996
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15
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Abstract
Androgens were at one time a therapeutic mainstay in the treatment of advanced breast cancer. Despite comparable efficacy, SERMs and aromatase inhibitors eventually became the therapies of choice due to in part to preferred side-effect profiles. Molecular characterization of breast tumors has revealed an abundance of androgen receptor expression but the choice of an appropriate androgen receptor ligand (agonist or antagonist) has been confounded by multiple conflicting reports concerning the role of the receptor in the disease. Modern clinical efforts have almost exclusively utilized antagonists. However, the recent clinical development of selective androgen receptor modulators with greatly improved side-effect profiles has renewed interest in androgen agonist therapy for advanced breast cancer.
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16
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Chekler ELP, Unwalla R, Khan TA, Tangirala RS, Johnson M, St. Andre M, Anderson JT, Kenney T, Chiparri S, McNally C, Kilbourne E, Thompson C, Nagpal S, Weber G, Schelling S, Owens J, Morris CA, Powell D, Verhoest PR, Gilbert AM. 1-(2-Hydroxy-2-methyl-3-phenoxypropanoyl)indoline-4-carbonitrile Derivatives as Potent and Tissue Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators. J Med Chem 2014; 57:2462-71. [DOI: 10.1021/jm401625b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eugene L. Piatnitski Chekler
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Rayomond Unwalla
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Taukeer A. Khan
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Raghuram S. Tangirala
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Mark Johnson
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Michael St. Andre
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - James T. Anderson
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Thomas Kenney
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Sue Chiparri
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Chris McNally
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Edward Kilbourne
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Catherine Thompson
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Sunil Nagpal
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Gregory Weber
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Scott Schelling
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Jane Owens
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Carl A. Morris
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Dennis Powell
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Patrick R. Verhoest
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
| | - Adam M. Gilbert
- BioTherapeutics Medicinal
Chemistry, Pfizer Global Research and Development, 200 Cambridgepark Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02140, United States
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17
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Zhang X, Allan GF, Tannenbaum P, Sbriscia T, Linton O, Lai MT, Haynes-Johnson D, Bhattacharjee S, Lundeen SG, Sui Z. Pharmacological characterization of an imidazolopyrazole as novel selective androgen receptor modulator. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2013; 134:51-8. [PMID: 23098693 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2012.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2012] [Revised: 10/08/2012] [Accepted: 10/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) are androgens with tissue-selective activity. SARMs that have anabolic activity on muscle while having minimal stimulatory activity on prostate are classified as SARM agonists. They can be used to prevent the loss of lean body mass that is associated with cancer, immunodeficiency, renal disease and aging. They may also have anabolic activity on bone; thus, unlike estrogens, they may reverse the loss of bone strength associated with aging or hypogonadism. Our in-house effort on SARM program discovers a nonsteroidal androgen receptor ligand with a unique imidazolopyrazole moiety in its structure. In vitro, this compound is a weak androgen receptor binder and a weak androgen agonist. Despite this, in orchidectomized mature rats it is an effective SARM agonist, with an ED(50) on levator ani muscle of 3.3mg/kg and an ED(50) on ventral prostate of >30mg/kg. It has its maximal effect on muscle at the dose of 10mg/kg. In addition, this compound has mixed agonistic and antagonistic activities on prostate, reducing the weight of that tissue in intact rats by 22% at 10mg/kg. The compound does not have significant effect on gonadotropin levels or testosterone levels in both orchidectomized and intact male rats. It does not have notable progestin, estrogen or glucocorticoid agonistic or antagonistic activity in rats. In a female sexual behavior model, it improves the sexual desire of ovariectomized female rats for sexually mature intact males over nonsexually ovariectomized females. Overall, the imidazolopyrazole is a potent prostate-sparing candidate for development as a SARM agonist with an appropriate pharmacological profile for clinical benefit in muscle-wasting conditions and female sexual function disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuqing Zhang
- Janssen Research and Development LLC, Welsh&McKean Roads, Spring House, PA 19477, USA.
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18
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Zhang X, Sui Z. Deciphering the selective androgen receptor modulators paradigm. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2012; 8:191-218. [DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2013.741582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xuqing Zhang
- Janssen Research and Development, LLC, Welsh and McKean Roads, PO Box 776, Spring House, PA 19477, USA
| | - Zhihua Sui
- Janssen Research and Development, LLC, Welsh and McKean Roads, PO Box 776, Spring House, PA 19477, USA
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19
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Alanine aminotransferase regulation by androgens in non-hepatic tissues. Pharm Res 2011; 29:1046-56. [PMID: 22167351 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-011-0649-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2011] [Accepted: 12/05/2011] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Alanine amino-transferases (ALTs) play a crucial role in drug development as a surrogate marker of liver injury where elevations in serum ALT activity are used to diagnose drug-induced liver damage. Two ALT isoforms have been characterized with disparate but overlapping tissue expression. ALT1 is primarily expressed in live; ALT2 is found in muscle and prostate tissues. We investigate ALT gene expression in diverse rodent tissues following administration of the steroidal androgen receptor (AR) agonist dihydrotestosterone and a novel tissue selective nonsteroidal agonist S-23. METHODS Putative AR regulation of ALT expression was determined in silico by an orthologous promoter androgen response element (ARE) search. Regulation was evaluated by transient transfection of ALT promoter region constructs and qRT-PCR experiments in cultured cells and in tissues following androgen administration. RESULTS Several putative AREs were found in the proximal promoter regions of ALT1 and ALT2. AREs in ALT2 but not ALT1 were capable of AR-mediated transcription. ALT2 expression was affected by castration and androgen administration in muscle and prostate but not liver tissues. CONCLUSIONS Androgen action in non-hepatic tissues, as opposed to xenobiotic toxicity alone, may contribute to increases in serum ALT activity following androgen administration.
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20
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Duke CB, Jones A, Bohl CE, Dalton JT, Miller DD. Unexpected binding orientation of bulky-B-ring anti-androgens and implications for future drug targets. J Med Chem 2011; 54:3973-6. [PMID: 21506597 DOI: 10.1021/jm2000097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Several new androgen receptor antagonists were synthesized and found to have varying activities across typically anti-androgen resistant mutants (Thr877 → Ala and Trp741 → Leu) and markedly improved potency over previously reported pan-antagonists. X-ray crystallography of a new anti-androgen in an androgen receptor mutant (Thr877 → Ala) shows that the receptor can accommodate the added bulk presented by phenyl to naphthyl substitution, casting doubt on previous reports of predicted binding orientation and the causes of antagonism in bulky-B-ring antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles B Duke
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tennessee, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
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