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ID: ALA4024751

Journal: J Med Chem

Title: Hit-to-Lead Optimization and Discovery of 5-((5-([1,1'-Biphenyl]-4-yl)-6-chloro-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)oxy)-2-methylbenzoic Acid (MK-3903): A Novel Class of Benzimidazole-Based Activators of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase.

Authors: Lan P, Romero FA, Wodka D, Kassick AJ, Dang Q, Gibson T, Cashion D, Zhou G, Chen Y, Zhang X, Zhang A, Li Y, Trujillo ME, Shao Q, Wu M, Xu S, He H, MacKenna D, Staunton J, Chapman KT, Weber A, Sebhat IK, Makara GM.

Abstract: AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) plays an essential role as a cellular energy sensor and master regulator of metabolism in eukaryotes. Dysregulated lipid and carbohydrate metabolism resulting from insulin resistance leads to hyperglycemia, the hallmark of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). While pharmacological activation of AMPK is anticipated to improve these parameters, the discovery of selective, direct activators has proven challenging. We now describe a hit-to-lead effort resulting in the discovery of a potent and selective class of benzimidazole-based direct AMPK activators, exemplified by 5-((5-([1,1'-biphenyl]-4-yl)-6-chloro-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)oxy)-2-methylbenzoic acid, 42 (MK-3903). Compound 42 exhibited robust target engagement in mouse liver following oral dosing, leading to improved lipid metabolism and insulin sensitization in mice.

CiteXplore: 29035567

DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b01344