Identification of novel GPR81 agonist lead series for target biology evaluation

GPR81 is a novel drug target that is implicated in the control of glucose and lipid metabolism. The lack of potent GPR81 modulators suitable for in vivo studies has limited the pharmacological characterization of this lactate sensing receptor. We performed a high throughput screen (HTS) and identified a GPR81 agonist chemical series containing a central acyl urea scaffold linker. During SAR exploration two additional new series were evolved, one containing cyclic acyl urea bioisosteres and another a central amide bond. These three series provide different selectivity and physicochemical properties suitable for in-vivo studies.

Recent advances for FLAP inhibitors

A number of FLAP inhibitors have been progressed to clinical trials for respiratory and other inflammatory indications but so far no drug has reached the market. With this Digest we assess the opportunity to develop FLAP inhibitors for indications beyond respiratory disease, and in particular for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. We also show how recently disclosed FLAP inhibitors have structurally evolved from the first generation FLAP inhibitors paving the way for new compound classes.