10.1016/j.bmcl.2005.08.050
The research focuses on the synthesis and biological activity of a series of 2-cyano-4-fluoro-1-thiovalylpyrrolidine inhibitors of DPP-IV (dipeptidyl peptidase IV), an enzyme involved in the inactivation of incretins like GLP-1 and GIP, which are important for glucose-dependent insulin secretion. The study aims to develop potent, selective, and orally active DPP-IV inhibitors with a long duration of action to potentially treat type 2 diabetes by increasing the half-life of native incretins. Key chemicals involved in the research include the 2-cyano-4-fluoro-1-thiovalylpyrrolidine core structure, various P2 fragments with different substituents (such as benzyl derivatives, sulfoxides, and sulfones), and the amino acid portion derived from D-penicillamine. The synthesis process involves multiple steps, including hydrolysis, dehydration, coupling reactions, and deprotection. The most promising compound identified is compound 19, which demonstrated good inhibitory activity, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic properties, with a long duration of action in both rat and dog models.