Efficient discovery of selective small molecule agonists of estrogen-related receptor gamma using combinatorial approach

J Comb Chem. 2009 Sep-Oct;11(5):928-37. doi: 10.1021/cc900081j.

Abstract

With the goal of discovering a selective agonist of estrogen-related receptor gamma (ERRgamma) with enhanced potency, we designed a series of small-molecule ligands derived from a known ERRgamma agonist, GSK4716, that can substantially potentiate the transcriptional activity of ERRgamma. Individual compounds among a 30-member library of acyl hydrazones were pre-evaluated through in silico docking studies on the receptor cavities of ERRgamma LBDs using X-ray crystal structures cocrystallized with GSK4716 and 4-OHT. This rational approach to achieve the enhanced potency in ERRgamma transcriptional activity with selectivity over ERRalpha/beta enables us to complete the construction of a focused library by carrying out microwave-assisted parallel synthesis with excellent yields and purities. Finally, we identified a more potent ERRgamma agonist, E6, with excellent selectivity over ERRalpha/beta.

MeSH terms

  • Combinatorial Chemistry Techniques*
  • Crystallography, X-Ray
  • Drug Discovery*
  • Hydrazines / chemistry
  • Hydrazines / pharmacology
  • Models, Molecular
  • Molecular Structure
  • Receptors, Estrogen / agonists*
  • Tamoxifen / analogs & derivatives
  • Tamoxifen / chemistry
  • Tamoxifen / pharmacology

Substances

  • ESRRG protein, human
  • GSK 4716
  • Hydrazines
  • Receptors, Estrogen
  • Tamoxifen
  • afimoxifene