Ligand and structure-based computational designing of multi-target molecules directing FFAR-1, FFAR-4 and PPAR-G as modulators of insulin receptor activity

Computational Approaches for PPARγ Inhibitor Development: Recent Advances and Perspectives

The development of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) inhibitors has attracted significant interest for treating metabolic disorders, cancer, and inflammatory diseases. This review highlights the crucial role of computational modelling in advancing PPARγ inhibitor development, emphasizing how these techniques streamline the identification, optimization, and evaluation of new drug candidates. Key methods include molecular docking, QSAR, and molecular dynamics simulations, which enhance the efficiency and accuracy of inhibitor design. Computational modelling has deepened our understanding of PPARγ binding mechanisms and conformational dynamics, allowing researchers to predict and optimize ligand-receptor complex stability. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, such as improving predictions of pharmacokinetic properties (ADME) to evaluate drug-like qualities. In conclusion, computational modelling has significantly enhanced PPARγ inhibitor discovery and development, offering new opportunities to address complex diseases. Continued refinement of these models, combined with experimental validation and emerging technologies, is crucial for overcoming current limitations and achieving successful clinical outcomes.

Activation of free fatty acid receptors, FFAR1 and FFAR4, ameliorates ulcerative colitis by promote fatty acid metabolism and mediate macrophage polarization

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the mechanism of action of fatty acid receptors, FFAR1 and FFAR4, on ulcerative colitis (UC) through fatty acid metabolism and macrophage polarization.

METHODS

Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse model of UC mice was used to evaluate the efficacy of FFAR1 (GW9508) and FFAR4 (GSK137647) agonists by analyzing body weight, colon length, disease activity index (DAI), and histological scores. Real-time PCR and immunofluorescence analysis were performed to quantify the levels of fatty acid metabolizing enzymes and macrophage makers. FFA-induced lipid accumulation in RAW264.7 cells was visualized by Oil Red O staining analysis, and cells were collected to detect macrophage polarization by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

The combination of GW9508 and GSK137647 significantly improved DSS-induced UC symptoms, caused recovery in colon length, and decreased histological injury. GW9508 + GSK137647 treatment upregulated the expressions of CD206, lipid oxidation enzyme (CPT-1α) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, IL-13) but downregulated those of CD86, lipogenic enzymes (ACC1, FASN, SCD1), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α). Combining the two agonists decreased FFA-induced lipid accumulation and increased CD206 expression in cell-based experiments.

CONCLUSION

Activated FFAR1 and FFAR4 ameliorates DSS-induced UC by promoting fatty acid metabolism to reduce lipid accumulation and mediate M2 macrophage polarization.