Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-4) inhibitors have been shown to enhance GLP-1 levels and thereby improve hyperglycemia in type II diabetes. From a small fragment hit, using structure-based design, we have discovered a new class of non-covalent, potent and selective DPP-4 inhibitors.
The discovery of two classes of heterocyclic dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-4) inhibitors, pyrimidinones and pyrimidinediones, is described. After a single oral dose, these potent, selective, and noncovalent inhibitors provide sustained reduction of plasma DPP-4 activity and lowering of blood glucose in animal models of diabetes. Compounds 13a, 27b, and 27j were selected for development.
Alogliptin is a potent, selective inhibitor of the serine protease dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-4). Herein, we describe the structure-based design and optimization of alogliptin and related quinazolinone-based DPP-4 inhibitors. Following an oral dose, these noncovalent inhibitors provide sustained reduction of plasma DPP-4 activity and a lowering of blood glucose in animal models of diabetes. Alogliptin is currently undergoing phase III trials in patients with type 2 diabetes.