Inhibitors of oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1 and methods of use thereof
Inventors
Mehta, Jawahar L. • Khaidakov, Magomed • Varughese, Kottayil I. • Thakkar, Shraddha • Dai, Yao • Crooks, Peter • Penthala, Narsimha Reddy
Assignees
Bio Ventures LLC • US Department of Veterans Affairs • BioVentures LLC
Publication Number
US-11465972-B2
Publication Date
2022-10-11
Expiration Date
2036-10-28
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Abstract
Inhibitors of oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1 (LOX-1), compositions comprising inhibitors of LOX-1, and methods of using thereof are described.
Core Innovation
The invention provides inhibitors of oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1 (LOX-1), compositions comprising such inhibitors, and methods of using them. The inhibitors are compounds defined by specific chemical formulas (Formulas I, II, and XX) with various selectable substituents, which are capable of binding to LOX-1. The compounds inhibit LOX-1 activity including binding and uptake of ox-LDL, as well as intracellular signaling mediated by LOX-1. These compounds are useful for treating diseases related to LOX-1 activity.
The problem addressed is that atherosclerosis remains a significant health risk with limited effective treatments and severe side effects. No new targets for treatment have been found in 15 years. The process leading to atherosclerosis involves elevated oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) interacting with LOX-1, which triggers endothelial dysfunction and other pro-atherogenic events. LOX-1 also plays roles in multiple cardiovascular conditions and susceptibility to diabetes. There is a need for effective LOX-1 inhibitors to block LOX-1 activity and LOX-1-mediated ox-LDL uptake.
The invention solves the problem by providing small molecule compounds that bind to the LOX-1 binding site, blocking ox-LDL interaction and inhibiting LOX-1 activity. The compounds reduce ox-LDL uptake in cells expressing LOX-1, modulate LOX-1 expression, inhibit downstream signaling such as MAPK phosphorylation, and decrease expression of adhesion molecules (VCAM-1), thereby reducing monocyte adhesion. These molecules were identified using virtual screening and confirmed by protein binding assays and cell-based functional studies.
Claims Coverage
The patent contains one independent method claim directed to inhibiting LOX-1 activity by contacting a cell with an effective amount of a specific class of compounds along with related dependent claims.
Method of inhibiting LOX-1 in a cell using specific compounds
A method comprising contacting a cell with an effective amount of a compound having a defined chemical structure represented by a formula where substituents such as X, R1, R2, and R3 have specified selections (e.g., X is oxygen, R1 is hydrogen, amino, or C1-C5 alkyl, R2 is hydrogen or C1-C5 alkyl, R3 is hydrogen, C1-C5 alkyl, cyano or halogen). The method inhibits LOX-1 activity in the cell.
Use of specific compounds with defined chemical structures
The use of compounds selected from a defined group of chemical structures possessing the specified substituents to inhibit LOX-1 when contacted with cells expressing LOX-1.
Application to human cells and isolated cells
The method applies to human cells and cells isolated from subjects prior to administration, enabling inhibition of LOX-1 in relevant biological contexts.
Administration via contacting or to subjects
Contacting LOX-1 can be performed by administration to a subject, wherein the subject has been diagnosed with a disorder associated with LOX-1 activity or elevated ox-LDL levels.
The claims cover methods of inhibiting LOX-1 by contacting cells with specific small molecule compounds defined by particular chemical structures and substituents, including use in human and isolated cells and administration to subjects with relevant disorders.
Stated Advantages
Compounds provide effective inhibition of LOX-1 activity and ox-LDL uptake by vascular cells.
Small molecules offer advantages such as ease of manufacturing, potential for oral administration, and better tissue penetration compared to antibodies.
Compounds reduce downstream pro-atherogenic effects including MAP kinase activation, adhesion molecule expression, and monocyte adhesion.
Lead compounds showed no cytotoxicity at tested concentrations, indicating potential safety for therapeutic use.
Documented Applications
Treatment of atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular conditions by inhibiting LOX-1 mediated processes.
Treatment of myocardial injury initiated during ischemia-reperfusion conditions.
Treatment of clinical conditions resulting from metabolic syndrome.
Reduction of buildup of atherosclerotic plaques in subjects by administering compounds that inhibit LOX-1.
Potential treatment for diseases associated with elevated LOX-1 activity or ox-LDL levels, including thrombocytopenia, diabetic nephropathy, sepsis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, vascular restenosis, thrombogenesis, and increased susceptibility to diabetes.
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