- Structural optimization of a CXCR2-directed antagonist that indirectly inhibits γ-secretase and reduces Aβ
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Amyloid β (Aβ), a key molecule in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), is derived from the amyloid precursor protein (APP) by sequential proteolysis via β- and γ-secretases. Because of their role in generation of Aβ, these enzymes have emerged as important therapeutic targets for AD. In the case of γ-secretase, progress has been made towards designing potent inhibitors with suitable pharmacological profiles. Direct γ-secretase inhibitors are being evaluated in clinical trials and new strategies are being explored to block γ-secretase activity indirectly as well. In this regard, we have previously reported an indirect regulation of γ-secretase through antagonism of CXCR2, a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR). We demonstrated that N-(2-hydroxy-4-nitrophenyl)-N′-(2-bromophenyl)urea (SB225002), a selective inhibitor of CXCR2 also plays a role in an indirect inhibition of γ-secretase. Furthermore, we reported a ～5-fold difference in the selective inhibition of APP versus Notch processing via γ-secretase following treatment with SB225002. Herein we describe the synthesis and optimization of SB225002. By determination of the structure-activity relationship (SAR), we derived small molecules that inhibit Aβ40 production with IC50 values in the sub-micromolar range in a cell-based assay and also validated the potential of CXCR2 as a new target for therapeutic intervention in AD.
- Bakshi, Pancham,Jin, Chao,Broutin, Pierre,Berhane, Beniam,Reed, Jon,Mullan, Michael
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experimental part
p. 8102 - 8112
(2010/03/24)
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