Identification of LY3522348: A Highly Selective and Orally Efficacious Ketohexokinase Inhibitor

J Med Chem. 2023 Dec 14;66(23):15960-15976. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01410. Epub 2023 Nov 22.

Abstract

The identification of clinical candidate LY3522348 (compound 23) is described. LY3522348 is a highly selective, oral dual inhibitor of human ketohexokinase isoforms C and A (hKHK-C, hKHK-A). Optimization began with highly efficient (S)-2-(2-methylazetidin-1-yl)-6-(1H-pyrazol-4-yl)-4-(trifluoromethyl)nicotinonitrile (3). Efforts focused on developing absorption, distribution, metabolism, potency, and in vitro safety profiles to support oral QD dosing in patients. Structure-based design leveraged vectors for substitution of the pyrazole ring, which provided an opportunity to interact with several different proximal amino acid residues in the protein. LY3522348 displayed a robust pharmacodynamic response in a mouse model of fructose metabolism and was advanced into clinical trials.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Fructokinases*
  • Humans
  • Mice

Substances

  • Fructokinases