Novel 2-oxoamide inhibitors of human group IVA phospholipase A(2)

Synthesis of aliphatic α-ketoamides from α-substituted methyl ketones via a Cu-catalyzed aerobic oxidative amidation

α-Ketoamides are an important key functional group and have been used as versatile and valuable intermediates and synthons in a variety of functional group transformations. Synthetic methods for making aryl α-ketoamides as drug candidates have been greatly improved through metal-catalyzed aerobic oxidative amidations. However, the preparation of alkyl α-ketoamides through metal-catalyzed aerobic oxidative amidations has not been reported because generating α-ketoamides from aliphatic ketones with two α-carbons theoretically provides two distinct α-ketoamides. Our strategy is to activate the α-carbon by introducing an N-substituent at one of the two α-positions. The key to this strategy is how heterocyclic compounds such as triazoles and imidazoles affect the selectivity of the synthesis of the alkyl α-ketoamides. From this basic concept, and by optimizing the reaction and elucidating the mechanism of the synthesis of aryl α-ketoamides via a copper-catalyzed aerobic oxidative amidation, we prepared fourteen aliphatic α-ketoamides in high yields (48-84%).

Small-molecule inhibitors as potential therapeutics and as tools to understand the role of phospholipases A2

Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) enzymes are involved in various inflammatory pathological conditions including arthritis, cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. The regulation of their catalytic activity is of high importance and a great effort has been devoted in developing synthetic inhibitors. We summarize the most important small-molecule synthetic PLA2 inhibitors developed to target each one of the four major types of human PLA2 (cytosolic cPLA2, calcium-independent iPLA2, secreted sPLA2, and lipoprotein-associated LpPLA2). We discuss recent applications of inhibitors to understand the role of each PLA2 type and their therapeutic potential. Potent and selective PLA2 inhibitors have been developed. Although some of them have been evaluated in clinical trials, none reached the market yet. Apart from their importance as potential medicinal agents, PLA2 inhibitors are excellent tools to unveil the role that each PLA2 type plays in cells and in vivo. Modern medicinal chemistry approaches are expected to generate improved PLA2 inhibitors as new agents to treat inflammatory diseases.

pCRP-mCRP Dissociation Mechanisms as Potential Targets for the Development of Small-Molecule Anti-Inflammatory Chemotherapeutics

Circulating C-reactive protein (CRP) is a key acute-phase protein and one of the main clinical biomarkers for inflammation and infection. CRP is an important upstream mediator of inflammation and is associated with the onset of a number of important disease states including cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. This pentraxin exerts pro-inflammatory properties via dissociation of the pentamer (pCRP) to a monomeric form (mCRP). This dissociation is induced by binding of pCRP to cell surface phosphocholine residues exposed by the action of phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂). Given the association of CRP with the onset of a range of serious disease states this CRP dissociation process is a tempting drug target for the development of novel small-molecule therapeutics. This review will discuss potential targets for chemotherapeutic intervention elucidated during studies of CRP-mediated inflammation and provide an up-to-date summary of the development of small molecules, not only targeted directly at inhibiting conversion of pCRP to mCRP, but also those developed for activity against PLA₂, given the key role of this enzyme in the activation of CRP.

2-Oxoesters: A Novel Class of Potent and Selective Inhibitors of Cytosolic Group IVA Phospholipase A2

Cytosolic phospholipase A₂ (GIVA cPLA₂) is the only PLA₂ that exhibits a marked preference for hydrolysis of arachidonic acid containing phospholipid substrates releasing free arachidonic acid and lysophospholipids and giving rise to the generation of diverse lipid mediators involved in inflammatory conditions. Thus, the development of potent and selective GIVA cPLA₂ inhibitors is of great importance. We have developed a novel class of such inhibitors based on the 2-oxoester functionality. This functionality in combination with a long aliphatic chain or a chain carrying an appropriate aromatic system, such as the biphenyl system, and a free carboxyl group leads to highly potent and selective GIVA cPLA₂ inhibitors (X_I(50) values 0.00007–0.00008) and docking studies aid in understanding this selectivity. A methyl 2-oxoester, with a short chain carrying a naphthalene ring, was found to preferentially inhibit the other major intracellular PLA₂, the calcium-independent PLA₂. In RAW264.7 macrophages, treatment with the most potent 2-oxoester GIVA cPLA₂ inhibitor resulted in over 50% decrease in KLA-elicited prostaglandin D₂ production. The novel, highly potent and selective GIVA cPLA₂ inhibitors provide excellent tools for the study of the role of the enzyme and could contribute to the development of novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

2-Oxoamides based on dipeptides as selective calcium-independent phospholipase A2 inhibitors

Calcium-independent phospholipase A₂ (GVIA iPLA₂) has recently attracted interest as a medicinal target. The number of known GVIA iPLA₂ inhibitors is limited to a handful of synthetic compounds (bromoenol lactone and polyfluoroketones). To expand the chemical diversity, a variety of 2-oxoamides based on dipeptides and ether dipeptides were synthesized and studied for their in vitro inhibitory activity on human GVIA iPLA₂ and their selectivity over the other major intracellular GIVA cPLA₂ and the secreted GV sPLA₂. Structure-activity relationship studies revealed the first 2-oxoamide derivative (GK317), which presents potent inhibition of GVIA iPLA₂ (X_I(50) value of 0.007) and at the same time significant selectivity over GIVA cPLA₂ and GV sPLA₂.

Structure-activity relationship studies on 1-(2-oxopropyl)indole-5-carboxylic acids acting as inhibitors of cytosolic phospholipase A2α: Effect of substituents at the indole 3-position on activity, solubility, and metabolic stability

Cytosolic phospholipase A₂α (cPLA₂α) is a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of pro-inflammatory lipid mediators and therefore represents an attractive target for the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs. Recently, we have found that 1-[3-(4-octylphenoxy)-2-oxopropyl]indole-5-carboxylic acid (4) is a potent inhibitor of the enzyme. In this work, we evaluate the effect of butanoyl- and hexanoyl-substituents in position 3 of the indole scaffold of this compound bearing terminal groups of varying polarity. As a result, inhibitory potency was not affected considerably in most cases, while metabolic phase I and phase II in vitro stability and aqueous solubility could be influenced and modulated by the structural modifications performed.

2-Oxoamide inhibitors of cytosolic group IVA phospholipase A2 with reduced lipophilicity

Cytosolic GIVA phospholipase A2 (GIVA cPLA2) initiates the eicosanoid pathway of inflammation and thus inhibitors of this enzyme constitute novel potential agents for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Traditionally, GIVA cPLA2 inhibitors have suffered systemically from high lipophilicity. We have developed a variety of long chain 2-oxoamides as inhibitors of GIVA PLA2. Among them, AX048 was found to produce a potent analgesic effect. We have now reduced the lipophilicity of AX048 by replacing the long aliphatic chain with a chain containing an ether linked aromatic ring with in vitro inhibitory activities similar to AX048.

Liberating Chiral Lipid Mediators, Inflammatory Enzymes, and LIPID MAPS from Biological Grease

In 1970, it was well accepted that the central role of lipids was in energy storage and metabolism, and it was assumed that amphipathic lipids simply served a passive structural role as the backbone of biological membranes. As a result, the scientific community was focused on nucleic acids, proteins, and carbohydrates as information-containing molecules. It took considerable effort until scientists accepted that lipids also "encode" specific and unique biological information and play a central role in cell signaling. Along with this realization came the recognition that the enzymes that act on lipid substrates residing in or on membranes and micelles must also have important signaling roles, spurring curiosity into their potentially unique modes of action differing from those acting on water-soluble substrates. This led to the creation of the concept of "surface dilution kinetics" for describing the mechanism of enzymes acting on lipid substrates, as well as the demonstration that lipid enzymes such as phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) contain allosteric activator sites for specific phospholipids as well as for membranes. As our understanding of phospholipases advanced, so did the understanding that many of the lipids released by these enzymes are chiral information-containing signaling molecules; for example, PLA₂ regulates the generation of precursors for the biosynthesis of eicosanoids and other bioactive lipid mediators of inflammation and resolution underlying disease progression. The creation of the LIPID MAPS initiative in 2003 and the ensuing development of the lipidomics field have revealed that lipid metabolites are central to human metabolism. Today lipids are recognized as key mediators of health and disease as we enter a new era of biomarkers and personalized medicine. This article is my personal "reflection" on these scientific advances.

ASB14780, an Orally Active Inhibitor of Group IVA Phospholipase A2, Is a Pharmacotherapeutic Candidate for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

We have previously shown that high-fat cholesterol diet (HFCD)-induced fatty liver and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis are reduced in mice deficient in group IVA phospholipase A2 (IVA-PLA2), which plays a role in inflammation. We herein demonstrate the beneficial effects of ASB14780 (3-[1-(4-phenoxyphenyl)-3-(2-phenylethyl)-1H-indol-5-yl]propanoic acid 2-amino-2-(hydroxymethyl)propane-1,3-diol salt), an orally active IVA-PLA2 inhibitor, on the development of fatty liver and hepatic fibrosis in mice. The daily coadministration of ASB14780 markedly ameliorated liver injury and hepatic fibrosis following 6 weeks of treatment with CCl4. ASB14780 markedly attenuated the CCl4-induced expression of smooth muscle α-actin (α-SMA) protein and the mRNA expression of collagen 1a2, α-SMA, and transforming growth factor-β1 in the liver, and inhibited the expression of monocyte/macrophage markers, CD11b and monocyte chemotactic protein-1, while preventing the recruitment of monocytes/macrophages to the liver. Importantly, ASB14780 also reduced the development of fibrosis even in matured hepatic fibrosis. Additionally, ASB14780 also reduced HFCD-induced lipid deposition not only in the liver, but also in already established fatty liver. Furthermore, treatment with ASB14780 suppressed the HFCD-induced expression of lipogenic mRNAs. The present findings suggest that an IVA-PLA2 inhibitor, such as ASB14780, could be useful for the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases, including fatty liver and hepatic fibrosis.

Membrane and inhibitor interactions of intracellular phospholipases A2

Studying phospholipases A2 (PLA2s) is a challenging task since they act on membrane-like aggregated substrates and not on monomeric phospholipids. Multidisciplinary approaches that include hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (DXMS) and computational techniques have been employed with great success in order to address important questions about the mode of interactions of PLA2 enzymes with membranes, phospholipid substrates and inhibitors. Understanding the interactions of PLA2s is crucial since these enzymes are the upstream regulators of the eicosanoid pathway liberating free arachidonic acid (AA) and other polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). The liberation of AA by PLA2 enzymes sets off a cascade of molecular events that involves downstream regulators such as cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) metabolites leading to inflammation. Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) work by inhibiting COX, while Zileuton inhibits LOX and both rely on PLA2 enzymes to provide them with AA. That means PLA2 enzymes can potentially also be targeted to diminish inflammation at an earlier point in the process. In this review we describe extensive efforts reported in the past to define the interactions of PLA2 enzymes with membranes, substrate phospholipids and inhibitors using DXMS, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations.

Synthetic and natural inhibitors of phospholipases A2: their importance for understanding and treatment of neurological disorders

Phospholipases A2 (PLA2) are a diverse group of enzymes that hydrolyze membrane phospholipids into arachidonic acid and lysophospholipids. Arachidonic acid is metabolized to eicosanoids (prostaglandins, leukotrienes, thromboxanes), and lysophospholipids are converted to platelet-activating factors. These lipid mediators play critical roles in the initiation, maintenance, and modulation of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Neurological disorders including excitotoxicity; traumatic nerve and brain injury; cerebral ischemia; Alzheimer's disease; Parkinson's disease; multiple sclerosis; experimental allergic encephalitis; pain; depression; bipolar disorder; schizophrenia; and autism are characterized by oxidative stress, inflammatory reactions, alterations in phospholipid metabolism, accumulation of lipid peroxides, and increased activities of brain phospholipase A2 isoforms. Several old and new synthetic inhibitors of PLA2, including fatty acid trifluoromethyl ketones; methyl arachidonyl fluorophosphonate; bromoenol lactone; indole-based inhibitors; pyrrolidine-based inhibitors; amide inhibitors, 2-oxoamides; 1,3-disubstituted propan-2-ones and polyfluoroalkyl ketones as well as phytochemical based PLA2 inhibitors including curcumin, Ginkgo biloba and Centella asiatica extracts have been discovered and used for the treatment of neurological disorders in cell culture and animal model systems. The purpose of this review is to summarize information on selective and potent synthetic inhibitors of PLA2 as well as several PLA2 inhibitors from plants, for treatment of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation associated with the pathogenesis of neurological disorders.

Inhibition of group IVA cytosolic phospholipase A2 by thiazolyl ketones in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo

Group IVA cytosolic phospholipase A2 (GIVA cPLA2) is the rate-limiting provider of pro-inflammatory mediators in many tissues and is thus an attractive target for the development of novel anti-inflammatory agents. In this work, we present the synthesis of new thiazolyl ketones and the study of their activities in vitro, in cells, and in vivo. Within this series of compounds, methyl 2-(2-(4-octylphenoxy)acetyl)thiazole-4-carboxylate (GK470) was found to be the most potent inhibitor of GIVA cPLA2, exhibiting an XI(50) value of 0.011 mole fraction in a mixed micelle assay and an IC50 of 300 nM in a vesicle assay. In a cellular assay using SW982 fibroblast-like synoviocytes, it suppressed the release of arachidonic acid with an IC50 value of 0.6 μM. In a prophylactic collagen-induced arthritis model, it exhibited an anti-inflammatory effect comparable to the reference drug methotrexate, whereas in a therapeutic model, it showed results comparable to those of the reference drug Enbrel. In both models, it significantly reduced plasma PGE2 levels.

Selenium dioxide-mediated synthesis of α-ketoamides from arylglyoxals and secondary amines

A facile and expeditious synthetic approach to α-ketoamides 3 is described. A series of α-ketoamides 3 was synthesized via reaction of selenium dioxide-mediated oxidative amidation between arylglyoxals 1 and secondary amines 2, and accelerated with microwave irradiation. Our findings indicate that constrained amines, such as piperazine and piperidine exhibit higher conversions for this transformation. This reaction was explored by synthesizing a series of α-ketoamides 3 from various arylglyoxals with cyclic and acyclic secondary amines.

Inhibitors of Cytosolic Phospholipase A2α as Anti-inflammatory Drugs

Arachidonic acid derivatives, like prostaglandins and leukotrienes, as well as the alkyl-ether phospholipid platelet-activating factor (PAF) are highly active substances with diverse biological actions. Elevated levels of these lipid mediators in response to a variety of stimuli have been implicated in the pathology of many inflammatory diseases. The rate-limiting step in the generation of prostaglandins, leukotrienes and PAF, respectively, is the cleavage of the sn-2-ester of membrane phospholipids by a phospholipase A2 (PLA2). Among the superfamily of PLA2 enzymes, cytosolic PLA2α (cPLA2α, also referred to as group IVA PLA2) is thought to play the primary role in this biochemical reaction. Therefore, inhibition of cPLA2α activity is an attractive approach to the control of inflammatory disorders.

In this chapter the main groups of cPLA2α inhibitors are described and the problems associated with the development of clinical active drug candidates are discussed. Furthermore, in-vivo data obtained with such compounds in pre-clinical animal models of inflammation will be presented.

Potent and selective 2-oxoamide inhibitors of phospholipases A2 as novel medicinal agents for the treatment of inflammatory diseases

Phospholipases A2 (PLA2s) are enzymes that are capable of catalyzing the hydrolysis of the sn-2 ester bond of glycerophospholipids, releasing free fatty acids, including arachidonic acid (AA), and lysophospholipids. Both products are precursor signaling molecules involved in inflammation. Among the various PLA2s, cytosolic GIVA cPLA2 is considered a major target for inflammatory diseases, while secreted GIIA sPLA2 is involved in cardiovascular diseases. We have developed lipophilic 2-oxoamides based on (S)-γ- or δ-amino acids as potent and selective inhibitors of GIVA cPLA2, which present interesting in vivo anti-inflammatory activity. 2-Oxoamides based on natural α-amino acids are selective inhibitors of GIIA sPLA2. The mode of binding of 2-oxoamides with either GIVA cPLA2 or GIIA sPLA2 has been studied by various techniques.

Determination of arachidonic acid by on-line solid-phase extraction HPLC with UV detection for screening of cytosolic phospholipase A2α inhibitors

An on-line solid-phase extraction (SPE)-liquid chromatographic method with ultraviolet detection at 200nm for screening of inhibitors of cytosolic phospholipase A(2)α (cPLA(2)α) was developed and validated. cPLA(2)α was isolated from porcine platelets. Enzyme activity was determined by measuring the release of arachidonic acid from a phospholipid substrate using automated on-line sample clean up on a trap column followed by isocratic back-flush elution on a RP18 analytical column. While the use of a conventional RP18 column for trapping the analyte led to peak broadening only after a few runs due to pollution of the column by binding of components present in the enzyme preparation, the application of a turbulent flow column (TurboFlow Cyclone™) resulted in sharp peaks even after a plurality of injections. Interestingly, for sample introduction a turbulent flow of the mobile phase produced by high flow rates was not necessary to maintain good peak shapes. The same result could also be achieved applying low flow rates (0.5 mL/min). Several known cPLA(2)α inhibitors were used to validate the test system.

Binding conformation of 2-oxoamide inhibitors to group IVA cytosolic phospholipase A2 determined by molecular docking combined with molecular dynamics

The group IVA cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (GIVA cPLA(2)) plays a central role in inflammation. Long chain 2-oxoamides constitute a class of potent GIVA cPLA(2) inhibitors that exhibit potent in vivo anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity. We have now gained insight into the binding of 2-oxoamide inhibitors in the GIVA cPLA(2) active site through a combination of molecular docking calculations and molecular dynamics simulations. Recently, the location of the 2-oxoamide inhibitor AX007 within the active site of the GIVA cPLA(2) was determined using a combination of deuterium exchange mass spectrometry followed by molecular dynamics simulations. After the optimization of the AX007-GIVA cPLA(2) complex using the docking algorithm Surflex-Dock, a series of additional 2-oxoamide inhibitors have been docked in the enzyme active site. The calculated binding affinity presents a good statistical correlation with the experimental inhibitory activity (r(2) = 0.76, N = 11). A molecular dynamics simulation of the docking complex of the most active compound has revealed persistent interactions of the inhibitor with the enzyme active site and proves the stability of the docking complex and the validity of the binding suggested by the docking calculations. The combination of molecular docking calculations and molecular dynamics simulations is useful in defining the binding of small-molecule inhibitors and provides a valuable tool for the design of new compounds with improved inhibitory activity against GIVA cPLA(2).

Phospholipase A2 superfamily members play divergent roles after spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in permanent loss of motor functions. A significant aspect of the tissue damage and functional loss may be preventable as it occurs, secondary to the trauma. We show that the phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) superfamily plays important roles in SCI. PLA(2) enzymes hydrolyze membrane glycerophospholipids to yield a free fatty acid and lysophospholipid. Some free fatty acids (arachidonic acid) give rise to eicosanoids that promote inflammation, while some lysophospholipids (lysophosphatidylcholine) cause demyelination. We show in a mouse model of SCI that two cytosolic forms [calcium-dependent PLA(2) group IVA (cPLA(2) GIVA) and calcium-independent PLA(2) group VIA (iPLA(2) GVIA)], and a secreted form [secreted PLA(2) group IIA (sPLA(2) GIIA)] are up-regulated. Using selective inhibitors and null mice, we show that these PLA(2)s play differing roles. cPLA(2) GIVA mediates protection, whereas sPLA(2) GIIA and, to a lesser extent, iPLA(2) GVIA are detrimental. Furthermore, completely blocking all three PLA(2)s worsens outcome, while the most beneficial effects are seen by partial inhibition of all three. The partial inhibitor enhances expression of cPLA(2) and mediates its beneficial effects via the prostaglandin EP1 receptor. These findings indicate that drugs that inhibit detrimental forms of PLA(2) (sPLA(2) and iPLA2) and up-regulate the protective form (cPLA2) may be useful for the treatment of SCI.

Recent progress in phospholipase A₂ research: from cells to animals to humans

Mammalian genomes encode genes for more than 30 phospholipase A₂s (PLA₂s) or related enzymes, which are subdivided into several classes including low-molecular-weight secreted PLA₂s (sPLA₂s), Ca²+-dependent cytosolic PLA₂s (cPLA₂s), Ca²+-independent PLA₂s (iPLA₂s), platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolases (PAF-AHs), lysosomal PLA₂s, and a recently identified adipose-specific PLA. Of these, the intracellular cPLA₂ and iPLA₂ families and the extracellular sPLA₂ family are recognized as the "big three". From a general viewpoint, cPLA₂α (the prototypic cPLA₂ plays a major role in the initiation of arachidonic acid metabolism, the iPLA₂ family contributes to membrane homeostasis and energy metabolism, and the sPLA₂ family affects various biological events by modulating the extracellular phospholipid milieus. The cPLA₂ family evolved along with eicosanoid receptors when vertebrates first appeared, whereas the diverse branching of the iPLA₂ and sPLA₂ families during earlier eukaryote development suggests that they play fundamental roles in life-related processes. During the past decade, data concerning the unexplored roles of various PLA₂ enzymes in pathophysiology have emerged on the basis of studies using knockout and transgenic mice, the use of specific inhibitors, and information obtained from analysis of human diseases caused by mutations in PLA₂ genes. This review focuses on current understanding of the emerging biological functions of PLA₂s and related enzymes.

Inhibition of secreted phospholipases A₂ by 2-oxoamides based on α-amino acids: Synthesis, in vitro evaluation and molecular docking calculations

Group IIA secreted phospholipase A₂ (GIIA sPLA₂) is a member of the mammalian sPLA₂ enzyme family and is associated with various inflammatory conditions. In this study, the synthesis of 2-oxoamides based on α-amino acids and the in vitro evaluation against three secreted sPLA₂s (GIIA, GV and GX) are described. The long chain 2-oxoamide GK126 based on the amino acid (S)-leucine displayed inhibition of human and mouse GIIA sPLA₂s (IC₅₀ 300nM and 180nM, respectively). It also inhibited human GV sPLA₂ with similar potency, while it did not inhibit human GX sPLA₂. The elucidation of the stereoelectronic characteristics that affect the in vitro activity of these compounds was achieved by using a combination of simulated annealing to sample low-energy conformations before the docking procedure, and molecular docking calculations.

Potent and selective fluoroketone inhibitors of group VIA calcium-independent phospholipase A2

Group VIA calcium-independent phospholipase A(2) (GVIA iPLA(2)) has recently emerged as a novel pharmaceutical target. We have now explored the structure-activity relationship between fluoroketones and GVIA iPLA(2) inhibition. The presence of a naphthyl group proved to be of paramount importance. 1,1,1-Trifluoro-6-(naphthalen-2-yl)hexan-2-one (FKGK18) is the most potent inhibitor of GVIA iPLA(2) (X(I)(50) = 0.0002) ever reported. Being 195 and >455 times more potent for GVIA iPLA(2) than for GIVA cPLA(2) and GV sPLA(2), respectively, makes it a valuable tool to explore the role of GVIA iPLA(2) in cells and in vivo models. 1,1,1,2,2,3,3-Heptafluoro-8-(naphthalene-2-yl)octan-4-one inhibited GVIA iPLA(2) with a X(I)(50) value of 0.001 while inhibiting the other intracellular GIVA cPLA(2) and GV sPLA(2) at least 90 times less potently. Hexa- and octafluoro ketones were also found to be potent inhibitors of GVIA iPLA(2); however, they are not selective.

Localization and function of cytosolic phospholipase A2alpha at the Golgi

Cytosolic phospholipase A(2)alpha (cPLA(2)alpha, Group IVA phospholipase A(2)) is a central mediator of arachidonate release from cellular phospholipids for the biosynthesis of eicosanoids. cPLA(2)alpha translocates to intracellular membranes including the Golgi in response to a rise in intracellular calcium level. The enzyme's calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding C2 domain provides the targeting specificity for cPLA(2)alpha translocation to the Golgi. However, other features of cPLA(2)alpha regulation are incompletely understood such as the role of phosphorylation of serine residues in the catalytic domain and the function of basic residues in the cPLA(2)alpha C2 and catalytic domains that are proposed to interact with anionic phospholipids in the membrane to which cPLA(2)alpha is targeted. Increasing evidence strongly suggests that cPLA(2)alpha plays a role in regulating Golgi structure, tubule formation and intra-Golgi transport. For example, recent data suggests that cPLA(2)alpha regulates the transport of tight junction and adherens junction proteins through the Golgi to cell-cell contacts in confluent endothelial cells. However, there are now examples where data based on knockdown using siRNA or pharmacological inhibition of enzymatic activity of cPLA(2)alpha affects fundamental cellular processes yet these phenotypes are not observed in cells from cPLA(2)alpha deficient mice. These results suggest that in some cases there may be compensation for the lack of cPLA(2)alpha. Thus, there is continued need for studies employing highly specific cPLA(2)alpha antagonists in addition to genetic deletion of cPLA(2)alpha in mice.

Location of inhibitors bound to group IVA phospholipase A2 determined by molecular dynamics and deuterium exchange mass spectrometry

An analysis of group IVA (GIVA) phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) inhibitor binding was conducted using a combination of deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (DXMS) and molecular dynamics (MD). Models of the GIVA PLA(2) inhibitors pyrrophenone and the 2-oxoamide AX007 docked into the protein were designed on the basis of deuterium exchange results, and extensive molecular dynamics simulations were run to determine protein-inhibitor contacts. The models show that both inhibitors interact with key residues that also exhibit changes in deuterium exchange upon inhibitor binding. Pyrrophenone is bound to the protein through numerous hydrophobic residues located distal from the active site, while the oxoamide is bound mainly through contacts near the active site. We also show differences in protein dynamics around the active site between the two inhibitor-bound complexes. This combination of computational and experimental methods is useful in defining more accurate inhibitor binding sites and can be used in the generation of better inhibitors against GIVA PLA(2).

2-Oxoamide inhibitors of phospholipase A2 activity and cellular arachidonate release based on dipeptides and pseudodipeptides

A series of 2-oxoamides based on dipeptides and pseudodipeptides were synthesized and their activities towards two human intracellular phospholipases A(2) (GIVA cPLA(2) and GVIA iPLA(2)) and one human secretory phospholipase A(2) (GV sPLA(2)) were evaluated. Derivatives containing a free carboxyl group are selective GIVA cPLA(2) inhibitors. A derivative based on the ethyl ester of an ether pseudodipeptide is the first 2-oxoamide, which preferentially inhibits GVIA iPLA(2). The effect of 2-oxoamides on the generation of arachidonic acid from RAW 264.7 macrophages was also studied and it was found that selective GIVA cPLA(2) inhibitors preferentially inhibited cellular arachidonic acid release; one pseudodipeptide gave an IC(50) value of 2muM.

Differing roles for members of the phospholipase A2 superfamily in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

The phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) superfamily hydrolyzes phospholipids to release free fatty acids and lysophospholipids, some of which can mediate inflammation and demyelination, hallmarks of the CNS autoimmune disease multiple sclerosis. The expression of two of the intracellular PLA(2)s (cPLA(2) GIVA and iPLA(2) GVIA) and two of the secreted PLA(2)s (sPLA(2) GIIA and sPLA(2) GV) are increased in different stages of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis. We show using small molecule inhibitors, that cPLA(2) GIVA plays a role in the onset, and iPLA(2) GVIA in the onset and progression of EAE. We also show a potential role for sPLA(2) in the later remission phase. These studies demonstrate that selective inhibition of iPLA(2) can ameliorate disease progression when treatment is started before or after the onset of symptoms. The effects of these inhibitors on lesion burden, chemokine and cytokine expression as well as on the lipid profile provide insights into their potential modes of action. iPLA(2) is also expressed by macrophages and other immune cells in multiple sclerosis lesions. Our results therefore suggest that iPLA(2) might be an excellent target to block for the treatment of CNS autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis.

Synthesis of polyfluoro ketones for selective inhibition of human phospholipase A2 enzymes

The development of selective inhibitors for individual PLA(2) enzymes is necessary in order to target PLA(2)-specific signaling pathways, but it is challenging due to the observed promiscuity of known PLA(2) inhibitors. In the current work, we present the development and application of a variety of synthetic routes to produce pentafluoro, tetrafluoro, and trifluoro derivatives of activated carbonyl groups in order to screen for selective inhibitors and characterize the chemical properties that can lead to selective inhibition. Our results demonstrate that the pentafluoroethyl ketone functionality favors selective inhibition of the GVIA iPLA(2), a very important enzyme for which specific, potent, reversible inhibitors are needed. We find that 1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoro-7-phenyl-heptan-3-one (FKGK11) is a selective inhibitor of GVIA iPLA(2) (X(I)(50) = 0.0073). Furthermore, we conclude that the introduction of an additional fluorine atom at the alpha' position of a trifluoromethyl ketone constitutes an important strategy for the development of new potent GVIA iPLA(2) inhibitors.

Synthesis of 2-oxoamides based on sulfonamide analogs of gamma-amino acids and their activity on phospholipase A2

A variety of lipophilic 2-oxoamides containing sulfonamide analogs of gamma-amino acids as well as acyl sulfonamides of gamma-aminobutyric acid were synthesized. Their ability to inhibit intracellular GIVA cPLA2 and GVIA iPLA2 as well as secreted GV sPLA2 was evaluated. The sulfonamide group seems a bioisosteric group suitable to replace the carboxyl group in 2-oxoamide inhibitors of GVIA cPLA2.

Structure-activity relationships of natural and non-natural amino acid-based amide and 2-oxoamide inhibitors of human phospholipase A(2) enzymes

A variety of 2-oxoamides and related amides based on natural and non-natural amino acids were synthesized. Their activity on two human intracellular phospholipases (GIVA cPLA(2) and GVIA iPLA(2)) and one human secretory phospholipase (GV sPLA(2)) was evaluated. We show that an amide based on (R)-gamma-norleucine is a highly selective inhibitor of GV sPLA(2).

A novel monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor with analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity

A variety of long chain 1,2-diamines and related compounds were synthesized and tested for their activity on fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacyglycerol lipase (MGL). (2S,9Z)-Octadec-9-ene-1,2-diamine selectively inhibits MGL (K(i) 21.8 microM) without significantly affecting FAAH. This compound exhibited interesting in vivo analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting that selective inhibitors of MGL may be valuable novel agents for the treatment of inflammatory pain.

Indole cytosolic phospholipase A2 alpha inhibitors: discovery and in vitro and in vivo characterization of 4-{3-[5-chloro-2-(2-{[(3,4-dichlorobenzyl)sulfonyl]amino}ethyl)-1-(diphenylmethyl)-1H-indol-3-yl]propyl}benzoic acid, efipladib

The optimization of a class of indole cPLA 2 alpha inhibitors is described herein. The importance of the substituent at C3 and the substitution pattern of the phenylmethane sulfonamide region are highlighted. Optimization of these regions led to the discovery of 111 (efipladib) and 121 (WAY-196025), which are shown to be potent, selective inhibitors of cPLA 2 alpha in a variety of isolated enzyme assays, cell based assays, and rat and human whole blood assays. The binding of these compounds has been further examined using isothermal titration calorimetry. Finally, these compounds have shown efficacy when dosed orally in multiple acute and chronic prostaglandin and leukotriene dependent in vivo models.

Structure-activity relationship of 2-oxoamide inhibition of group IVA cytosolic phospholipase A2 and group V secreted phospholipase A2

The Group IVA cytosolic phospholipase A2 (GIVA cPLA2) is a key provider of substrates for the production of eicosanoids and platelet-activating factor. We explored the structure-activity relationship of 2-oxoamide-based compounds and GIVA cPLA2 inhibition. The most potent inhibitors are derived from delta- and gamma-amino acid-based 2-oxoamides. The optimal side-chain moiety is a short nonpolar aliphatic chain. All of the newly developed 2-oxoamides as well as those previously described have now been tested with the human Group V secreted PLA2 (GV sPLA2) and the human Group VIA calcium-independent PLA2 (GVIA iPLA2). Only one 2-oxoamide compound had appreciable inhibition of GV sPLA2, and none of the potent GIVA cPLA2 inhibitors inhibited either GV sPLA2 or GVIA iPLA2. Two of these specific GIVA cPLA2 inhibitors were also found to have potent therapeutic effects in animal models of pain and inflammation at dosages well below the control nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Discovery of Ecopladib, an indole inhibitor of cytosolic phospholipase A2alpha

The synthesis and structure-activity relationship of a series of indole inhibitors of cytosolic phospholipase A2alpha (cPLA2alpha, type IVA phospholipase) are described. Inhibitors of cPLA2alpha are predicted to be efficacious in treating asthma as well as the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and pain. The introduction of a benzyl sulfonamide substituent at C2 was found to impart improved potency of these inhibitors, and the SAR of these sulfonamide analogues is disclosed. Compound 123 (Ecopladib) is a sub-micromolar inhibitor of cPLA2alpha in the GLU micelle and rat whole blood assays. Compound 123 displayed oral efficacy in the rat carrageenan air pouch and rat carrageenan-induced paw edema models.

Synthesis of lipophilic 2-oxoamides based on γ-aminobutyric and δ-aminovaleric analogues and their activity against phospholipase A2

A variety of lipophilic 2-oxoamides based on gamma-aminobutyric and delta-aminovaleric analogues were synthesized. 2-oxoamides containing a tetrazole, a thioethyl or a thioacetyl group are weak inhibitors of GIVA cPLA(2), while derivatives containing a methyl tetrazole, a diethyl phosphonate or a thioethyl group are weak inhibitors of GV sPLA(2).

Differential inhibition of group IVA and group VIA phospholipases A2 by 2-oxoamides

Inhibitors of the Group IVA phospholipase A(2) (GIVA cPLA(2)) and GVIA iPLA(2) are useful tools for defining the roles of these enzymes in cellular signaling and inflammation. We have developed inhibitors of GVIA iPLA(2) building upon the 2-oxoamide backbone that are uncharged, containing ester groups. Although the most potent inhibitors of GVIA iPLA(2) also inhibited GIVA cPLA(2), there were three 2-oxoamide compounds that selectively and weakly inhibited GVIA iPLA(2). We further show that several potent 2-oxoamide inhibitors of GIVA cPLA(2) containing free carboxylic groups (Kokotos et al. J. Med. Chem. 2002, 45, 2891-2893) do not inhibit GVIA iPLA(2) and are, therefore, selective GIVA cPLA(2) inhibitors.

Systemic and Intrathecal Effects of a Novel Series of Phospholipase A2 Inhibitors on Hyperalgesia and Spinal Prostaglandin E2 Release

Phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) forms are expressed in spinal cord, and inhibiting spinal PLA(2) induces a potent antihyperalgesia. Here, we examined the antihyperalgesic effects after systemic and i.t. delivery of four compounds constructed with a common motif consisting of a 2-oxoamide with a hydrocarbon tail and a four-carbon tether. These molecules were characterized for their ability to block group IVA calcium-dependent PLA(2) (cPLA(2)) and group VIA calcium-independent PLA(2) (iPLA(2)) in inhibition assays using human recombinant enzyme. The rank ordering of potency in blocking group IVA cPLA(2) was AX048 (ethyl 4-[(2-oxohexadecanoyl)amino]butanoate), AX006 (4-[(2-oxohexadecanoyl)amino]butanoic acid), and AX057 (tert-butyl 4-[(2-oxohexadecanoyl)amino]butanoate) > AX010 (methyl 4-[(2-oxohexadecanoyl)amino]butanoate) and for inhibiting group VIA iPLA(2) was AX048, AX057 > AX006, and AX010. No agent altered recombinant cyclooxygenase activity. In vivo, i.t. (30 mug) and systemic (0.2-3 mg/kg i.p.) AX048 blocked carrageenan hyperalgesia and after systemic delivery in a model of spinally mediated hyperalgesia induced by i.t. substance P (SP). The other agents were without activity. In rats prepared with lumbar i.t. loop dialysis catheters, SP evoked spinal prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) release. AX048 alone inhibited PGE(2) release. Intrathecal SR141617, a cannabinoid CB1 inhibitor at doses that blocked the effects of i.t. anandamide had no effect upon i.t. AX048. These results suggest that AX048 is the first systemically bioavailable compound with a significant affinity for group IVA cPLA(2), which produces a potent antihyperalgesia. The other agents, although demonstrating enzymatic activity in cell-free assays, appear unable to gain access to the intracellular PLA(2) toward which their action is targeted.

Enzymatic Removal of Carboxyl Protecting Groups. 2. Cleavage of the Benzyl and Methyl Moieties

[reaction: see text] Enzymes are versatile reagents for the efficient removal of methyl and benzyl protecting groups. An esterase from Bacillus subtilis (BS2) and a lipase from Candida antarctica (CAL-A) allow a mild and selective removal of these moieties in high yields without affecting other functional groups.