EP2 Antagonists (2011-2021): A Decade's Journey from Discovery to Therapeutics

J Med Chem. 2021 Aug 26;64(16):11816-11836. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00816. Epub 2021 Aug 5.

Abstract

In the wake of health disasters associated with the chronic use of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor drugs, it has been widely proposed that modulation of downstream prostanoid synthases or receptors might provide more specificity than simply shutting down the entire COX cascade for anti-inflammatory benefits. The pathogenic actions of COX-2 have long been thought attributable to the prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) signaling through its Gαs-coupled EP2 receptor subtype; however, the truly selective EP2 antagonists did not emerge until 2011. These small molecules provide game-changing tools to better understand the EP2 receptor in inflammation-associated conditions. Their applications in preclinical models also reshape our knowledge of PGE2/EP2 signaling as a node of inflammation in health and disease. As we celebrate the 10-year anniversary of this breakthrough, the exploration of their potential as drug candidates for next-generation anti-inflammatory therapies has just begun. The first decade of EP2 antagonists passes, while their future looks brighter than ever.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / chemistry
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors / chemistry
  • Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Drug Discovery
  • Humans
  • Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype / antagonists & inhibitors*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors
  • Receptors, Prostaglandin E, EP2 Subtype