Discovery of Bis-imidazolecarboxamide Derivatives as Novel, Potent, and Selective TNIK Inhibitors for the Treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Traf2- and Nck-interacting kinase (TNIK) has been identified as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of fibrosis-driven diseases. Utilizing a structure-based drug design workflow, we developed a series of potent TNIK inhibitors that modulate the conformation of the gatekeeper Met105 side chain and access the TNIK back pocket. The lead optimization efforts culminated in the discovery of the recently reported compound 4 (INS018_055), a novel TNIK inhibitor. This molecule demonstrated excellent activity in both enzymatic and cell-based assays, along with high selectivity in a kinome panel. Further, in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies revealed favorable in vitro and in vivo DMPK properties. Results from multiple cell-based and animal models proved that compound 4 exhibits considerable antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory efficacy. Currently, phase II clinical trials of compound 4 are underway for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
Source: Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
Authors: Vladimir Aladinskiy, Chris Kruse, Luoheng Qin, Eugene Babin, Yaya Fan, Georgiy Andreev, Heng Zhao, Yanyun Fu, Man Zhang, Yan Ivanenkov, Alex Aliper, Alex Zhavoronkov, Feng Ren
Institution: International Renewable Energy Agency
Language: English
Subfield: Computational Theory and Mathematics
Field: Computer Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4403537754