1
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Ieremias L, Kaspersen MH, Manandhar A, Schultz-Knudsen K, Vrettou CI, Pokhrel R, Heidtmann CV, Jenkins L, Kanellou C, Marsango S, Li Y, Bräuner-Osborne H, Rexen Ulven E, Milligan G, Ulven T. Structure-Activity Relationship Studies and Optimization of 4-Hydroxypyridones as GPR84 Agonists. J Med Chem 2024; 67:3542-3570. [PMID: 38381650 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
GPR84 is a putative medium-chain fatty acid receptor that is implicated in regulation of inflammation and fibrogenesis. Studies have indicated that GPR84 agonists may have therapeutic potential in diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, atherosclerosis, and cancer, but there is a lack of quality tool compounds to explore this potential. The fatty acid analogue LY237 (4a) is the most potent GPR84 agonist disclosed to date but has unfavorable physicochemical properties. We here present a SAR study of 4a. Several highly potent agonists were identified with EC50 down to 28 pM, and with SAR generally in excellent agreement with structure-based modeling. Proper incorporation of rings and polar groups resulted in the identification of TUG-2099 (4s) and TUG-2208 (42a), both highly potent GPR84 agonists with lowered lipophilicity and good to excellent solubility, in vitro permeability, and microsomal stability, which will be valuable tools for exploring the pharmacology and therapeutic prospects of GPR84.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loukas Ieremias
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mads H Kaspersen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Odense, Denmark
| | - Asmita Manandhar
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katrine Schultz-Knudsen
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christina Ioanna Vrettou
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rina Pokhrel
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christoffer V Heidtmann
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Odense, Denmark
| | - Laura Jenkins
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, U.K
| | - Christina Kanellou
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sara Marsango
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Yueming Li
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, U.K
| | - Hans Bräuner-Osborne
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Graeme Milligan
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, U.K
| | - Trond Ulven
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Odense, Denmark
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2
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Dragano NRV, Milbank E, Haddad-Tóvolli R, Garrido-Gil P, Nóvoa E, Fondevilla MF, Capelli V, Zanesco AM, Solon C, Morari J, Pires L, Estevez-Salguero Á, Beiroa D, González-García I, Barca-Mayo O, Diéguez C, Nogueiras R, Labandeira-García JL, Rexen Ulven E, Ulven T, Claret M, Velloso LA, López M. Hypothalamic free fatty acid receptor-1 regulates whole-body energy balance. Mol Metab 2024; 79:101840. [PMID: 38036170 PMCID: PMC10784317 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2023.101840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Free fatty acid receptor-1 (FFAR1) is a medium- and long-chain fatty acid sensing G protein-coupled receptor that is highly expressed in the hypothalamus. Here, we investigated the central role of FFAR1 on energy balance. METHODS Central FFAR1 agonism and virogenic knockdown were performed in mice. Energy balance studies, infrared thermographic analysis of brown adipose tissue (BAT) and molecular analysis of the hypothalamus, BAT, white adipose tissue (WAT) and liver were carried out. RESULTS Pharmacological stimulation of FFAR1, using central administration of its agonist TUG-905 in diet-induced obese mice, decreases body weight and is associated with increased energy expenditure, BAT thermogenesis and browning of subcutaneous WAT (sWAT), as well as reduced AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) levels, reduced inflammation, and decreased endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the hypothalamus. As FFAR1 is expressed in distinct hypothalamic neuronal subpopulations, we used an AAV vector expressing a shRNA to specifically knockdown Ffar1 in proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons of the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARC) of obese mice. Our data showed that knockdown of Ffar1 in POMC neurons promoted hyperphagia and body weight gain. In parallel, these mice developed hepatic insulin resistance and steatosis. CONCLUSIONS FFAR1 emerges as a new hypothalamic nutrient sensor regulating whole body energy balance. Moreover, pharmacological activation of FFAR1 could provide a therapeutic advance in the management of obesity and its associated metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia R V Dragano
- Department of Physiology, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), 15706, Spain; Laboratory of Cell Signaling-Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil.
| | - Edward Milbank
- Department of Physiology, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), 15706, Spain
| | - Roberta Haddad-Tóvolli
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism (NeuCoMe) Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pablo Garrido-Gil
- Department of Morphological Sciences, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; CIBER Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28029, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Eva Nóvoa
- Department of Physiology, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), 15706, Spain
| | - Marcos F Fondevilla
- Department of Physiology, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), 15706, Spain
| | - Valentina Capelli
- Department of Physiology, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), 15706, Spain
| | - Ariane Maria Zanesco
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling-Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Carina Solon
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling-Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Joseane Morari
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling-Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Leticia Pires
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling-Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Ánxela Estevez-Salguero
- Department of Physiology, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), 15706, Spain
| | - Daniel Beiroa
- Department of Physiology, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), 15706, Spain
| | - Ismael González-García
- Department of Physiology, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), 15706, Spain
| | - Olga Barca-Mayo
- Department of Physiology, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain
| | - Carlos Diéguez
- Department of Physiology, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), 15706, Spain
| | - Ruben Nogueiras
- Department of Physiology, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), 15706, Spain
| | - José L Labandeira-García
- Department of Morphological Sciences, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; CIBER Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28029, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Trond Ulven
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marc Claret
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism (NeuCoMe) Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERdem), 08036, Spain; Faculty of Medicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Licio A Velloso
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling-Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Miguel López
- Department of Physiology, CiMUS, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), 15706, Spain.
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3
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Kjær VMS, Stępniewski TM, Medel-Lacruz B, Reinmuth L, Ciba M, Rexen Ulven E, Bonomi M, Selent J, Rosenkilde MM. Ligand entry pathways control the chemical space recognized by GPR183. Chem Sci 2023; 14:10671-10683. [PMID: 37829039 PMCID: PMC10566501 DOI: 10.1039/d2sc05962b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The G protein-coupled receptor GPR183 is a chemotactic receptor with an important function in the immune system and association with a variety of diseases. It recognizes ligands with diverse physicochemical properties as both the endogenous oxysterol ligand 7α,25-OHC and synthetic molecules can activate the G protein pathway of the receptor. To better understand the ligand promiscuity of GPR183, we utilized both molecular dynamics simulations and cell-based validation experiments. Our work reveals that the receptor possesses two ligand entry channels: one lateral between transmembrane helices 4 and 5 facing the membrane, and one facing the extracellular environment. Using enhanced sampling, we provide a detailed structural model of 7α,25-OHC entry through the lateral membrane channel. Importantly, the first ligand recognition point at the receptor surface has been captured in diverse experimentally solved structures of different GPCRs. The proposed ligand binding pathway is supported by in vitro data employing GPR183 mutants with a sterically blocked lateral entrance, which display diminished binding and signaling. In addition, computer simulations and experimental validation confirm the existence of a polar water channel which might serve as an alternative entrance gate for less lipophilic ligands from the extracellular milieu. Our study reveals knowledge to understand GPR183 functionality and ligand recognition with implications for the development of drugs for this receptor. Beyond, our work provides insights into a general mechanism GPCRs may use to respond to chemically diverse ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoria Madeline Skovgaard Kjær
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Blegdamsvej 3B 2200 København N Denmark
| | - Tomasz Maciej Stępniewski
- Research Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM) & Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) Dr Aiguader 88 E-8003 Barcelona Spain
- InterAx Biotech AG, PARK innovAARE 5234 Villigen Switzerland
- Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw 02-089 Warsaw Poland
| | - Brian Medel-Lacruz
- Research Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM) & Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) Dr Aiguader 88 E-8003 Barcelona Spain
| | - Lisa Reinmuth
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Blegdamsvej 3B 2200 København N Denmark
| | - Marija Ciba
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen Jagtvej 160 2100 København Ø Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen Jagtvej 160 2100 København Ø Denmark
| | - Massimiliano Bonomi
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR3528, Structural Bioinformatics Unit 75015 Paris France
| | - Jana Selent
- Research Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), Hospital del Mar Research Institute (IMIM) & Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) Dr Aiguader 88 E-8003 Barcelona Spain
| | - Mette Marie Rosenkilde
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Copenhagen Blegdamsvej 3B 2200 København N Denmark
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4
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Lorza-Gil E, Kaiser G, Carlein C, Hoffmann MDA, König GM, Haug S, Prates Roma L, Rexen Ulven E, Ulven T, Kostenis E, Birkenfeld AL, Häring HU, Ullrich S, Gerst F. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion depends on FFA1 and Gq in neonatal mouse islets. Diabetologia 2023; 66:1501-1515. [PMID: 37217659 PMCID: PMC10317898 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-023-05932-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS After birth, the neonatal islets gradually acquire glucose-responsive insulin secretion, a process that is subjected to maternal imprinting. Although NEFA are major components of breastmilk and insulin secretagogues, their role for functional maturation of neonatal beta cells is still unclear. NEFA are the endogenous ligands of fatty acid receptor 1 (FFA1, encoded by Ffar1 in mice), a Gq-coupled receptor with stimulatory effect on insulin secretion. This study investigates the role of FFA1 in neonatal beta cell function and in the adaptation of offspring beta cells to parental high-fat feeding. METHODS Wild-type (WT) and Ffar1-/- mice were fed high-fat (HFD) or chow diet (CD) for 8 weeks before mating, and during gestation and lactation. Blood variables, pancreas weight and insulin content were assessed in 1-, 6-, 11- and 26-day old (P1-P26) offspring. Beta cell mass and proliferation were determined in P1-P26 pancreatic tissue sections. FFA1/Gq dependence of insulin secretion was evaluated in isolated islets and INS-1E cells using pharmacological inhibitors and siRNA strategy. Transcriptome analysis was conducted in isolated islets. RESULTS Blood glucose levels were higher in CD-fed Ffar1-/- P6-offspring compared with CD-fed WT P6-offspring. Accordingly, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) and its potentiation by palmitate were impaired in CD Ffar1-/- P6-islets. In CD WT P6-islets, insulin secretion was stimulated four- to fivefold by glucose and five- and sixfold over GSIS by palmitate and exendin-4, respectively. Although parental HFD increased blood glucose in WT P6-offspring, it did not change insulin secretion from WT P6-islets. In contrast, parental HFD abolished glucose responsiveness (i.e. GSIS) in Ffar1-/- P6-islets. Inhibition of Gq by FR900359 or YM-254890 in WT P6-islets mimicked the effect of Ffar1 deletion, i.e. suppression of GSIS and of palmitate-augmented GSIS. The blockage of Gi/o by pertussis toxin (PTX) enhanced (100-fold) GSIS in WT P6-islets and rendered Ffar1-/- P6-islets glucose responsive, suggesting constitutive activation of Gi/o. In WT P6-islets, FR900359 cancelled 90% of PTX-mediated stimulation, while in Ffar1-/- P6-islets it completely abolished PTX-elevated GSIS. The secretory defect of Ffar1-/- P6-islets did not originate from insufficient beta cells, since beta cell mass increased with the offspring's age irrespective of genotype and diet. In spite of that, in the breastfed offspring (i.e. P1-P11) beta cell proliferation and pancreatic insulin content had a genotype- and diet-driven dynamic. Under CD, the highest proliferation rate was reached by the Ffar1-/- P6 offspring (3.95% vs 1.88% in WT P6), whose islets also showed increased mRNA levels of genes (e.g. Fos, Egr1, Jun) typically high in immature beta cells. Although parental HFD increased beta cell proliferation in both WT (4.48%) and Ffar1-/- (5.19%) P11 offspring, only the WT offspring significantly increased their pancreatic insulin content upon parental HFD (5.18 µg under CD to 16.93 µg under HFD). CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION FFA1 promotes glucose-responsive insulin secretion and functional maturation of newborn islets and is required for adaptive offspring insulin secretion in the face of metabolic challenge, such as parental HFD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estela Lorza-Gil
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Zentrum München at the University of Tübingen (IDM), Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetology and Nephrology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Gabriele Kaiser
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Zentrum München at the University of Tübingen (IDM), Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetology and Nephrology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christopher Carlein
- Department of Biophysics Faculty of Medicine, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Markus D A Hoffmann
- Department of Biophysics Faculty of Medicine, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele M König
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Bonn University, Bonn, Germany
| | - Sieglinde Haug
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetology and Nephrology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Leticia Prates Roma
- Department of Biophysics Faculty of Medicine, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Trond Ulven
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Evi Kostenis
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Bonn University, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andreas L Birkenfeld
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Zentrum München at the University of Tübingen (IDM), Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetology and Nephrology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Susanne Ullrich
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Zentrum München at the University of Tübingen (IDM), Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetology and Nephrology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Felicia Gerst
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Tübingen, Germany.
- Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Zentrum München at the University of Tübingen (IDM), Tübingen, Germany.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetology and Nephrology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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5
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Abstract
The succinate receptor (SUCNR1) has emerged as a potential target for the treatment of various metabolic and inflammatory diseases, including hypertension, inflammatory bowel disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. While several ligands for this receptor have been reported, species differences in pharmacology between human and rodent orthologs have limited the validation of SUCNR1's therapeutic potential. Here, we describe the development of the first potent fluorescent tool compounds for SUCNR1 and use these to define key differences in ligand binding to human and mouse SUCNR1. Starting from known agonist scaffolds, we developed a potent agonist tracer, TUG-2384 (22), with affinity for both human and mouse SUCNR1. In addition, we developed a novel antagonist tracer, TUG-2465 (46), which displayed high affinity for human SUCNR1. Using 46 we demonstrate that three humanizing mutations on mouse SUCNR1, N181.31E, K2697.32N, and G84EL1W, are sufficient to restore high-affinity binding of SUCNR1 antagonists to the mouse receptor ortholog.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Ciba
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bethany Dibnah
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland United Kingdom
| | - Brian D Hudson
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland United Kingdom
| | - Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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6
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Valentini A, Schultz-Knudsen K, Højgaard Hansen A, Tsakoumagkou A, Jenkins L, Christensen HB, Manandhar A, Milligan G, Ulven T, Rexen Ulven E. Discovery of Potent Tetrazole Free Fatty Acid Receptor 2 Antagonists. J Med Chem 2023; 66:6105-6121. [PMID: 37129317 PMCID: PMC10547238 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The free fatty acid receptor 2 (FFA2), also known as GPR43, mediates effects of short-chain fatty acids and has attracted interest as a potential target for treatment of various metabolic and inflammatory diseases. Herein, we report the results from bioisosteric replacement of the carboxylic acid group of the established FFA2 antagonist CATPB and SAR investigations around these compounds, leading to the discovery of the first high-potency FFA2 antagonists, with the preferred compound TUG-2304 (16l) featuring IC50 values of 3-4 nM in both cAMP and GTPγS assays, favorable physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties, and the ability to completely inhibit propionate-induced neutrophil migration and respiratory burst.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Valentini
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University
of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katrine Schultz-Knudsen
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University
of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Højgaard Hansen
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University
of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Argyro Tsakoumagkou
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University
of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laura Jenkins
- Centre
for Translational Pharmacology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College
of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Henriette B. Christensen
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University
of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Asmita Manandhar
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University
of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Graeme Milligan
- Centre
for Translational Pharmacology, School of Molecular Biosciences, College
of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Trond Ulven
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University
of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University
of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University
of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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7
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Barki N, Bolognini D, Börjesson U, Jenkins L, Riddell J, Hughes DI, Ulven T, Hudson BD, Ulven ER, Dekker N, Tobin AB, Milligan G. Chemogenetics defines a short-chain fatty acid receptor gut-brain axis. eLife 2022; 11:73777. [PMID: 35229717 PMCID: PMC8887895 DOI: 10.7554/elife.73777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Volatile small molecules, including the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), acetate and propionate, released by the gut microbiota from the catabolism of nondigestible starches, can act in a hormone-like fashion via specific G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). The primary GPCR targets for these SCFAs are FFA2 and FFA3. Using transgenic mice in which FFA2 was replaced by an altered form called a Designer Receptor Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (FFA2-DREADD), but in which FFA3 is unaltered, and a newly identified FFA2-DREADD agonist 4-methoxy-3-methyl-benzoic acid (MOMBA), we demonstrate how specific functions of FFA2 and FFA3 define a SCFA-gut-brain axis. Activation of both FFA2/3 in the lumen of the gut stimulates spinal cord activity and activation of gut FFA3 directly regulates sensory afferent neuronal firing. Moreover, we demonstrate that FFA2 and FFA3 are both functionally expressed in dorsal root- and nodose ganglia where they signal through different G proteins and mechanisms to regulate cellular calcium levels. We conclude that FFA2 and FFA3, acting at distinct levels, provide an axis by which SCFAs originating from the gut microbiota can regulate central activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasja Barki
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Daniele Bolognini
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ulf Börjesson
- Discovery Sciences, Biopharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Laura Jenkins
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - John Riddell
- Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - David I Hughes
- Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Trond Ulven
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Brian D Hudson
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niek Dekker
- Discovery Sciences, Biopharmaceutical R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Andrew B Tobin
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Graeme Milligan
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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8
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Hansen AH, Christensen HB, Pandey SK, Sergeev E, Valentini A, Dunlop J, Dedeo D, Fratta S, Hudson BD, Milligan G, Ulven T, Rexen Ulven E. Structure-Activity Relationship Explorations and Discovery of a Potent Antagonist for the Free Fatty Acid Receptor 2. ChemMedChem 2021; 16:3326-3341. [PMID: 34288488 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Free fatty acid receptor 2 (FFA2) is a sensor for short-chain fatty acids that has been identified as an interesting potential drug target for treatment of metabolic and inflammatory diseases. Although several ligand series are known for the receptor, there is still a need for improved compounds. One of the most potent and frequently used antagonists is the amide-substituted phenylbutanoic acid known as CATPB ( 1 ). We here report the structure-activity relationship exploration of this compound, leading to the identification of homologues with increased potency. The preferred compound 37 (TUG-1958) was found, besides improved potency, to have high solubility and favorable pharmacokinetic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Højgaard Hansen
- University of Southern Denmark: Syddansk Universitet, Department of Physics,Chemistry and Pharmacy, DENMARK
| | - Henriette B Christensen
- University of Southern Denmark: Syddansk Universitet, Department of Physics, Chemsitry and Pharmacy, DENMARK
| | - Sunil K Pandey
- University of Southern Denmark: Syddansk Universitet, FKF, DENMARK
| | - Eugenia Sergeev
- University of Glasgow, Center for Translational Pharmacology, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Alice Valentini
- University of Copenhagen: Kobenhavns Universitet, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacoloy, DENMARK
| | - Julia Dunlop
- University of Glasgow, Center for Translational Medicine, DENMARK
| | - Domonkos Dedeo
- University of Glasgow, Center for Translational Research, DENMARK
| | - Simone Fratta
- University of Copenhagen: Kobenhavns Universitet, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, DENMARK
| | - Brian D Hudson
- University of Glasgow, Center for Translational Medicine, DENMARK
| | - Graeme Milligan
- University of Glasgow, Center for Translational Research, DENMARK
| | - Trond Ulven
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Jagtvej 162, DK-2100, Copenhagen, DENMARK
| | - Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- University of Copenhagen: Kobenhavns Universitet, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, DENMARK
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9
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Ulven ER, Quon T, Sergeev E, Barki N, Brvar M, Hudson BD, Dutta P, Hansen AH, Bielefeldt LØ, Tobin AB, McKenzie CJ, Milligan G, Ulven T. Structure-Activity Relationship Studies of Tetrahydroquinolone Free Fatty Acid Receptor 3 Modulators. J Med Chem 2020; 63:3577-3595. [PMID: 32141297 PMCID: PMC7307922 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b02036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Free fatty acid receptor 3 (FFA3, previously GPR41) is activated by short-chain fatty acids, mediates health effects of the gut microbiota, and is a therapeutic target for metabolic and inflammatory diseases. The shortage of well-characterized tool compounds has however impeded progress. Herein, we report structure-activity relationship of an allosteric modulator series and characterization of physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties of selected compounds, including previous and new tools. Two representatives, 57 (TUG-1907) and 63 (TUG-2015), showed improved solubility and preserved potency. Of these, 57, with EC50 = 145 nM and a solubility of 33 μM, showed high clearance in vivo but is a preferred tool in vitro. In contrast, 63, with EC50 = 162 nM and a solubility of 9 μM, showed lower clearance and seems better suited for in vivo studies. Using 57, we demonstrate for the first time that FFA3 activation leads to calcium mobilization in murine dorsal root ganglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University
of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University
of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Tezz Quon
- Centre
for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems
Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ Glasgow, Scotland, U.K.
| | - Eugenia Sergeev
- Centre
for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems
Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ Glasgow, Scotland, U.K.
| | - Natasja Barki
- Centre
for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems
Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ Glasgow, Scotland, U.K.
| | - Matjaz Brvar
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University
of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Brian D. Hudson
- Centre
for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems
Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ Glasgow, Scotland, U.K.
| | - Palash Dutta
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University
of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Højgaard Hansen
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University
of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Line Ø. Bielefeldt
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University
of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Andrew B. Tobin
- Centre
for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems
Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ Glasgow, Scotland, U.K.
| | - Christine J. McKenzie
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University
of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Graeme Milligan
- Centre
for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems
Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ Glasgow, Scotland, U.K.
| | - Trond Ulven
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University
of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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10
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Hansen AH, Sergeev E, Bolognini D, Sprenger RR, Ekberg JH, Ejsing CS, McKenzie CJ, Rexen Ulven E, Milligan G, Ulven T. Discovery of a Potent Thiazolidine Free Fatty Acid Receptor 2 Agonist with Favorable Pharmacokinetic Properties. J Med Chem 2018; 61:9534-9550. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b00855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anders Højgaard Hansen
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Eugenia Sergeev
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Daniele Bolognini
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Richard R. Sprenger
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Jeppe Hvidtfeldt Ekberg
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christer S. Ejsing
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Christine J. McKenzie
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Graeme Milligan
- Centre for Translational Pharmacology, Institute of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Trond Ulven
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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11
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Domljanovic I, Rexen Ulven E, Ulven T, Thomsen RP, Okholm AH, Kjems J, Voss A, Taskova M, Astakhova K. Dihydropyridine Fluorophores Allow for Specific Detection of Human Antibodies in Serum. ACS Omega 2018; 3:7580-7586. [PMID: 30087918 PMCID: PMC6068599 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.8b00424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Antigen recognition by antibodies plays an important role in human biology and in the development of diseases. This interaction provides a basis for multiple diagnostic assays and is a guide for treatments. We have developed dihydropyridine-based fluorophores that form stable complexes with double-stranded DNA and upon recognition of the antibodies to DNA (anti-DNA) provide an optical response. The fluorophores described herein have advantageous optical properties compared to those of the currently available dyes making them valuable for research and clinical diagnostics. By studying a series of novel fluorophores, crucial parameters for the design were established, providing the required sensitivity and specificity in the detection of antibodies. Using these DNA-fluorophore complexes in a direct immunofluorescence assay, antibodies to DNA are specifically detected in 80 patients diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, systemic lupus erythematosus. Positivity indicated by emission change of α-(4'-O-methoxyphenyl)-2-furyl dihydropyridine strongly correlates with other disease biomarkers and autoimmune arthritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Domljanovic
- Department
of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 206, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University
of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- Department
of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University
of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Trond Ulven
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University
of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken
2, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rasmus P. Thomsen
- Interdisciplinary
Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Anders H. Okholm
- Interdisciplinary
Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Kjems
- Interdisciplinary
Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department
of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus
University, C.F. Møllers
Allé 3, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Anne Voss
- Department
of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, J. B. Winsløws Vej 19, 2, 5000 Odense C, Denmark
| | - Maria Taskova
- Department
of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 206, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Kira Astakhova
- Department
of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet 206, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- E-mail:
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12
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Rexen Ulven E, Trauelsen M, Brvar M, Lückmann M, Bielefeldt LØ, Jensen LKI, Schwartz TW, Frimurer TM. Structure-Activity Investigations and Optimisations of Non-metabolite Agonists for the Succinate Receptor 1. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10010. [PMID: 29968758 PMCID: PMC6030209 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28263-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The succinate receptor 1 (SUCNR1) is a receptor for the metabolite succinate, which functions as a metabolic stress signal in the liver, kidney, adipose tissue and the retina. However, potent non-metabolite tool compounds are needed to reveal the physiological role and pharmacological potential of SUCNR1. Recently, we published the discovery of a computationally receptor-structure derived non-metabolite SUCNR1 agonist series with high target selectivity. We here report our structure-activity exploration and optimisation that has resulted in the development of agonists with nanomolar potency and excellent solubility and stability properties in a number of in vitro assays. Ligand-guided receptor models with high discriminative power between binding of active and inactive compounds were developed for design of novel chemotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark.
| | - Mette Trauelsen
- NNF Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Section for Metabolic Receptology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Matjaz Brvar
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Michael Lückmann
- Laboratory for Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Line Ø Bielefeldt
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Lisa K I Jensen
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Thue W Schwartz
- NNF Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Section for Metabolic Receptology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Laboratory for Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas M Frimurer
- NNF Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Section for Metabolic Receptology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
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13
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Lorza-Gil E, Przemeck GKH, Ulven ER, Sabrautzki S, Panse M, Gerst F, Häring HU, Ulven T, Hrabě de Angelis M, Ullrich S. Role of free fatty acid signaling in islet function. DIABETOL STOFFWECHS 2018. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1641773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E Lorza-Gil
- Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Institut für Diabetes Forschung und Metabolische Krankheiten des Helmholtz Zentrum München an der Universität Tübingen (IDM), Department für Pathophysiologie des Prediabetes, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Tübingen, Germany
| | - GKH Przemeck
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Experimental Genetics and the German Mouse Clinic, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), München, Germany
| | - ER Ulven
- University of Southern Denmark, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Odense M, Denmark
| | - S Sabrautzki
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Experimental Genetics and the German Mouse Clinic, Neuherberg, Germany
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Research Unit Comparative Medicine, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - M Panse
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Tübingen, Germany
- University Hospital Tübingen, Internal Medicine IV, Endocrinology, Diabetology, Vascular Medicine, Nephrology and Clinical Chemistry, Tübingen, Germany
| | - F Gerst
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Zentrum München at the University of Tübingen (IDM), Department für Pathophysiologie des Prediabetes, Tübingen, Germany
| | - HU Häring
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Tübingen, Germany
- University Hospital Tübingen, Internal Medicine IV, Endocrinology, Diabetology, Vascular Medicine, Nephrology and Clinical Chemistry, Tübingen, Germany
| | - T Ulven
- University of Copenhagen, Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - M Hrabě de Angelis
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, Institute of Experimental Genetics and the German Mouse Clinic, Neuherberg, Germany
- Technische Universität München, Chair of Experimental Genetics, School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, München, Germany
| | - S Ullrich
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Tübingen, Germany
- Institute for Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases of the Helmholtz Zentrum München at the University of Tübingen (IDM), Department für Pathophysiologie des Prediabetes, Tübingen, Germany
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14
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Trauelsen M, Rexen Ulven E, Hjorth SA, Brvar M, Monaco C, Frimurer TM, Schwartz TW. Receptor structure-based discovery of non-metabolite agonists for the succinate receptor GPR91. Mol Metab 2017; 6:1585-1596. [PMID: 29157600 PMCID: PMC5699910 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2017.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Besides functioning as an intracellular metabolite, succinate acts as a stress-induced extracellular signal through activation of GPR91 (SUCNR1) for which we lack suitable pharmacological tools. Methods and results Here we first determined that the cis conformation of the succinate backbone is preferred and that certain backbone modifications are allowed for GPR91 activation. Through receptor modeling over the X-ray structure of the closely related P2Y1 receptor, we discovered that the binding pocket is partly occupied by a segment of an extracellular loop and that succinate therefore binds in a very different mode than generally believed. Importantly, an empty side-pocket is identified next to the succinate binding site. All this information formed the basis for a substructure-based search query, which, combined with molecular docking, was used in virtual screening of the ZINC database to pick two serial mini-libraries of a total of only 245 compounds from which sub-micromolar, selective GPR91 agonists of unique structures were identified. The best compounds were backbone-modified succinate analogs in which an amide-linked hydrophobic moiety docked into the side-pocket next to succinate as shown by both loss- and gain-of-function mutagenesis. These compounds displayed GPR91-dependent activity in altering cytokine expression in human M2 macrophages similar to succinate, and importantly were devoid of any effect on the major intracellular target, succinate dehydrogenase. Conclusions These novel, synthetic non-metabolite GPR91 agonists will be valuable both as pharmacological tools to delineate the GPR91-mediated functions of succinate and as leads for the development of GPR91-targeted drugs to potentially treat low grade metabolic inflammation and diabetic complications such as retinopathy and nephropathy. The GPR91 binding site for succinate is identified with an adjacent empty pocket. The binding pocket structure is used to identify novel synthetic GPR91 agonists. The non-metabolite GPR91 ligands can be used as pharmacological tools and drug leads. Novel compounds demonstrate GPR91 control of cytokine expression in M2 macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Trauelsen
- NNF Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Section for Metabolic Receptology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Rexen Ulven
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Siv A Hjorth
- Laboratory for Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Matjaz Brvar
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Claudia Monaco
- Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, OX3 7FY Oxford, UK
| | - Thomas M Frimurer
- NNF Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Section for Metabolic Receptology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Thue W Schwartz
- NNF Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Section for Metabolic Receptology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; Laboratory for Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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