Crystal structure of the GLP-1 receptor bound to a peptide agonist.

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) regulates glucose homeostasis through the control of insulin release from the pancreas. GLP-1 peptide agonists are efficacious drugs for the treatment of diabetes. To gain insight into the molecular mechanism of action of GLP-1 peptides, here we report the crystal structure of the full-length GLP-1 receptor bound to a truncated peptide agonist. The peptide agonist retains an α-helical conformation as it sits deep within the receptor-binding pocket. The arrangement of the transmembrane helices reveals hallmarks of an active conformation similar to that observed in class A receptors. Guided by this structural information, we design peptide agonists with potent in vivo activity in a mouse model of diabetes.

Corrigendum: Crystal structure of the GLP-1 receptor bound to a peptide agonist.

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1038/nature22800.

Extra-helical binding site of a glucagon receptor antagonist.

Glucagon is a 29-amino-acid peptide released from the α-cells of the islet of Langerhans, which has a key role in glucose homeostasis. Glucagon action is transduced by the class B G-protein-coupled glucagon receptor (GCGR), which is located on liver, kidney, intestinal smooth muscle, brain, adipose tissue, heart and pancreas cells, and this receptor has been considered an important drug target in the treatment of diabetes. Administration of recently identified small-molecule GCGR antagonists in patients with type 2 diabetes results in a substantial reduction of fasting and postprandial glucose concentrations. Although an X-ray structure of the transmembrane domain of the GCGR has previously been solved, the ligand (NNC0640) was not resolved. Here we report the 2.5 Å structure of human GCGR in complex with the antagonist MK-0893 (ref. 4), which is found to bind to an allosteric site outside the seven transmembrane (7TM) helical bundle in a position between TM6 and TM7 extending into the lipid bilayer. Mutagenesis of key residues identified in the X-ray structure confirms their role in the binding of MK-0893 to the receptor. The unexpected position of the binding site for MK-0893, which is structurally similar to other GCGR antagonists, suggests that glucagon activation of the receptor is prevented by restriction of the outward helical movement of TM6 required for G-protein coupling. Structural knowledge of class B receptors is limited, with only one other ligand-binding site defined--for the corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 1 (CRF1R)--which was located deep within the 7TM bundle. We describe a completely novel allosteric binding site for class B receptors, providing an opportunity for structure-based drug design for this receptor class and furthering our understanding of the mechanisms of activation of these receptors.

Identification of a novel allosteric GLP-1R antagonist HTL26119 using structure- based drug design.

A series of novel allosteric antagonists of the GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R), exemplified by HTL26119, are described. SBDD approaches were employed to identify HTL26119, exploiting structural understanding of the allosteric binding site of the closely related Glucagon receptor (GCGR) (Jazayeri et al., 2016) and the homology relationships between GCGR and GLP-1R. The region around residue C3476.36b of the GLP-1R receptor represents a key difference from GCGR and was targeted for selectivity for GLP-1R.

Structurally Enabled Discovery of Adenosine A2A Receptor Antagonists.

Over the past decade there has been a revolution in the field of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) structural biology. Many years of innovative research from different areas have come together to fuel this significant change in the fortunes of this field, which for many years was characterized by the paucity of high-resolution structures. The determination to succeed has been in part due to the recognized importance of these proteins as drug targets, and although the pharmaceutical industry has been focusing on these receptors, it can be justifiably argued and demonstrated that many of the approved and commercially successful GPCR drugs can be significantly improved to increase efficacy and/or reduce undesired side effects. In addition, many validated targets in this class remain to be drugged. It is widely recognized that application of structure-based drug design approaches can help medicinal chemists a long way toward discovering better drugs. The achievement of structural biologists in providing high-resolution insight is beginning to transform drug discovery efforts, and there are a number of GPCR drugs that have been discovered by use of structural information that are in clinical development. This review aims to highlight the key developments that have brought success to GPCR structure resolution efforts and exemplify the practical application of structural information for the discovery of adenosine A2A receptor antagonists that have potential to treat multiple conditions.

Inhibiting Ca2+ channels in Alzheimer's disease model mice relaxes pericytes, improves cerebral blood flow and reduces immune cell stalling and hypoxia.

Early in Alzheimer's disease (AD), pericytes constrict capillaries, increasing their hydraulic resistance and trapping of immune cells and, thus, decreasing cerebral blood flow (CBF). Therapeutic approaches to attenuate pericyte-mediated constriction in AD are lacking. Here, using in vivo two-photon imaging with laser Doppler and speckle flowmetry and magnetic resonance imaging, we show that Ca2+ entry via L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (CaVs) controls the contractile tone of pericytes. In AD model mice, we identifed pericytes throughout the capillary bed as key drivers of an immune reactive oxygen species (ROS)-evoked and pericyte intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i)-mediated decrease in microvascular flow. Blocking CaVs with nimodipine early in disease progression improved CBF, reduced leukocyte stalling at pericyte somata and attenuated brain hypoxia. Amyloid ß (Aß)-evoked pericyte contraction in human cortical tissue was also greatly reduced by CaV block. Lowering pericyte [Ca2+]i early in AD may, thus, offer a therapeutic strategy to enhance brain energy supply and possibly cognitive function in AD.

The rational design of ARUK2007145, a dual inhibitor of the α and γ isoforms of the lipid kinase phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate 4-kinase (PI5P4K).

The phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate 4-kinases (PI5P4Ks) are therapeutic targets for diseases such as cancer, neurodegeneration and immunological disorders as they are key components in regulating cell signalling pathways. In an effort to make probe molecules available for further exploring these targets, we have previously reported PI5P4Kα-selective and PI5P4Kγ-selective ligands. Herein we report the rational design of PI5P4Kα/γ dual inhibitors, using knowledge gained during the development of selective inhibitors for these proteins. ARUK2007145 (39) is disclosed as a potent, cell-active probe molecule with ADMET properties amenable to conducting experiments in cells.

The Identification of Potent, Selective, and Brain Penetrant PI5P4Kγ Inhibitors as In Vivo-Ready Tool Molecules.

Owing to their central role in regulating cell signaling pathways, the phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate 4-kinases (PI5P4Ks) are attractive therapeutic targets in diseases such as cancer, neurodegeneration, and immunological disorders. Until now, tool molecules for these kinases have been either limited in potency or isoform selectivity, which has hampered further investigation of biology and drug development. Herein we describe the virtual screening workflow which identified a series of thienylpyrimidines as PI5P4Kγ-selective inhibitors, as well as the medicinal chemistry optimization of this chemotype, to provide potent and selective tool molecules for further use. In vivo pharmacokinetics data are presented for exemplar tool molecules, along with an X-ray structure for ARUK2001607 (15) in complex with PI5P4Kγ, along with its selectivity data against >150 kinases and a Cerep safety panel.

Identification of ARUK2002821 as an isoform-selective PI5P4Kα inhibitor.

The phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate 4-kinases (PI5P4Ks) play a central role in regulating cell signalling pathways and, as such, have become therapeutic targets for diseases such as cancer, neurodegeneration and immunological disorders. Many of the PI5P4Kα inhibitors that have been reported to date have suffered from poor selectivity and/or potency and the availability of better tool molecules would facilitate biological exploration. Herein we report a novel PI5P4Kα inhibitor chemotype that was identified through virtual screening. The series was optimised to deliver ARUK2002821 (36), a potent PI5P4Kα inhibitor (pIC50 = 8.0) which is selective vs. other PI5P4K isoforms and has broad selectivity against lipid and protein kinases. ADMET and target engagement data are provided for this tool molecule and others in the series, as well as an X-ray structure of 36 solved in complex with its PI5P4Kα target.

Development of Selective Phosphatidylinositol 5-Phosphate 4-Kinase γ Inhibitors with a Non-ATP-competitive, Allosteric Binding Mode.

Phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate 4-kinases (PI5P4Ks) are emerging as attractive therapeutic targets in diseases, such as cancer, immunological disorders, and neurodegeneration, owing to their central role in regulating cell signaling pathways that are either dysfunctional or can be modulated to promote cell survival. Different modes of binding may enhance inhibitor selectivity and reduce off-target effects in cells. Here, we describe efforts to improve the physicochemical properties of the selective PI5P4Kγ inhibitor, NIH-12848 (1). These improvements enabled the demonstration that this chemotype engages PI5P4Kγ in intact cells and that compounds from this series do not inhibit PI5P4Kα or PI5P4Kß. Furthermore, the first X-ray structure of PI5P4Kγ bound to an inhibitor has been determined with this chemotype, confirming an allosteric binding mode. An exemplar from this chemical series adopted two distinct modes of inhibition, including through binding to a putative lipid interaction site which is 18 Å from the ATP pocket.

Systematic Investigation of the Permeability of Androgen Receptor PROTACs.

Bifunctional molecules known as PROTACs simultaneously bind an E3 ligase and a protein of interest to direct ubiquitination and clearance of that protein, and they have emerged in the past decade as an exciting new paradigm in drug discovery. In order to investigate the permeability and properties of these large molecules, we synthesized two panels of PROTAC molecules, constructed from a range of protein-target ligands, linkers, and E3 ligase ligands. The androgen receptor, which is a well-studied protein in the PROTAC field was used as a model system. The physicochemical properties and permeability of PROTACs are discussed.

Total synthesis of thapsigargin, a potent SERCA pump inhibitor.

The enantioselective total synthesis of thapsigargin, a potent, selective inhibitor of the Ca2+ pump SERCA, is described. Starting from ketoalcohol 8, key steps involve regioselective introduction of the internal olefin at C4-C5, judicious protecting group choice to allow chelation-controlled reduction at C3, and chemoselective introduction of the angelate ester function at C3-O. A selective esterification approach completes the total synthesis in a total of 42 steps and 0.61% overall yield (88.6% average yield per step). [reaction: see text].

Autophagy and Neurodegeneration: Pathogenic Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities.

Autophagy is a conserved pathway that delivers cytoplasmic contents to the lysosome for degradation. Here we consider its roles in neuronal health and disease. We review evidence from mouse knockout studies demonstrating the normal functions of autophagy as a protective factor against neurodegeneration associated with intracytoplasmic aggregate-prone protein accumulation as well as other roles, including in neuronal stem cell differentiation. We then describe how autophagy may be affected in a range of neurodegenerative diseases. Finally, we describe how autophagy upregulation may be a therapeutic strategy in a wide range of neurodegenerative conditions and consider possible pathways and druggable targets that may be suitable for this objective.

Evaluation of Cross-contamination of Nylon Bags with Heavy-loaded Gasoline Fire Debris and with Automotive Paint Thinner.

Nylon bags are used for packaging fire debris in several countries, particularly in Europe. The possibility of cross-contamination during transport from the fire scene to the laboratory, in normal casework conditions in the U.K., was studied for two brands of nylon bags, using simulated heavy-loaded fire debris. Three experiments were carried out with each brand, using as sample a piece of cotton fabric soaked with gasoline. One experiment was carried out using automotive paint thinner (oxygenated solvent). Each sample was sealed in a nylon bag and stored in contact with eight empty bags. The empty bags were analysed at regular intervals for a period of time up to 8 weeks, using SPME and GC/MS. Cross-contamination was found for components of gasoline (toluene and C2 -alkylbenzenes) in the two brands of nylon bags used, after 4 days and 2 weeks. Cross-contamination using automotive topcoat thinner was detected after 2 days.

Small Molecule CXCR3 Antagonists.

Chemokines and their receptors are known to play important roles in disease. More than 40 chemokine ligands and 20 chemokine receptors have been identified, but, to date, only two small molecule chemokine receptor antagonists have been approved by the FDA. The chemokine receptor CXCR3 was identified in 1996, and nearly 20 years later, new areas of CXCR3 disease biology continue to emerge. Several classes of small molecule CXCR3 antagonists have been developed, and two have shown efficacy in preclinical models of inflammatory disease. However, only one CXCR3 antagonist has been evaluated in clinical trials, and there remain many opportunities to further investigate known classes of CXCR3 antagonists and to identify new chemotypes. This Perspective reviews the known CXCR3 antagonists and considers future opportunities for the development of small molecules for clinical evaluation.

Orexin Receptor Antagonists: Historical Perspectives and Future Opportunities.

The orexin receptors OX1 and OX2 play important roles in the regulation of sleep-wake cycles, feeding, reward and energy homeostasis. Since these G protein-coupled receptors were deorphanised in 1998, more than 200 patents containing orexin receptor antagonists have been filed and, in 2014, suvorexant (Belsomra®) became the first of these compounds to receive approval from the FDA. Suvorexant is a dual orexin receptor antagonist (DORA) which is available for the treatment of insomnia. This review provides a historical perspective on the discovery and development of DORAs as well as selective OX1 receptor antagonists (1-SORAs) and selective OX2 receptor antagonists (2-SORAs). 2-SORAs are under clinical evaluation for their ability to modulate sleep, and 1-SORAs have shown promise for the treatment of addiction in pre-clinical animal models. Detailed medicinal chemistry case studies are presented and future opportunities for orexin receptor antagonists are considered.

Automated parallel, multi-step polymer-assisted solution phase (PASP) synthesis of substituted benzimidazole derivatives.

The automated polymer-assisted solution phase (PASP) synthesis of a 72 member library of 2-alkylthio-benzimidazoles 16 and benzimidazolin-2-ones 17 using commercially available robotic workstations is described. By incorporating both automated aqueous work-ups, in-line scavenging and 'catch and release' protocols the desired compounds were obtained directly in good yields and excellent purities without the need for conventional chromatographic purification. The synthesis described demonstrates how both manual and automated equipment may be utilised together to provide a versatile approach that facilitates parallel compound synthesis.

Structure-based and fragment-based GPCR drug discovery.

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are an important family of membrane proteins; historically, drug discovery in this target class has been fruitful, with many of the world's top-selling drugs being GPCR modulators. Until recently, the modern techniques of structure- and fragment-based drug discovery had not been fully applied to GPCRs, primarily because of the instability of these proteins when isolated from their cell membrane environments. Recent advances in receptor stabilisation have facilitated major advances in GPCR structural biology over the past six years, with 21 new receptor targets successfully crystallised with one or more ligands. The dramatic increase in GPCR structural information has yielded an increased use of structure-based methods for hit identification and progression, which are reviewed herein. Additionally, a number of fragment-based drug discovery techniques have been validated for use with GPCRs in recent years; these approaches and their use in hit identification are reviewed.

Combustion and toxic gas production from disposable barbecues in enclosures.

The production of carbon monoxide from disposable barbecues in an enclosed room has been investigated. Hazard calculations have shown that lethal concentrations of CO and CO2 can be produced easily. Burning rates and the relative formation of CO and CO2 depend on the ambient oxygen concentration. Smoke does not correlate with CO concentration as it is mostly produced by the combustion of volatile hydrocarbons added to facilitate ignition. In a typical room, this results in smoke clearing before the maximum CO concentration is reached. Smoke obscuration is therefore a poor indicator of the danger posed by CO. This is an important observation for those discovering or attempting to resuscitate or rescue comatose victims. Dilution caused by ventilation is described numerically and has allowed total volumes of CO and CO2 produced to be estimated.