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Activation of G551D CFTR channel with MPB-91: regulation by ATPase activity and phosphorylation

R Dérand1, L Bulteau-Pignoux, Y Mettey

  • 1Laboratoire de Physiologie des Régulations Cellulaires, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6558, 86022 Poitiers, France.

Insights

A novel compound, MPB-91, effectively restores function to the G551D cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. This discovery offers a potential new therapeutic avenue for cystic fibrosis by modulating CFTR activity.

Area of Science:

  • Medicinal Chemistry
  • Molecular Pharmacology
  • Ion Channel Modulation

Background:

  • Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CFTR gene.
  • The G551D mutation impairs CFTR channel function, leading to ion transport defects.
  • Developing small molecules to correct CFTR dysfunction is a key therapeutic goal.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To design and synthesize novel benzo[c]quinolizinium derivatives.
  • To evaluate their efficacy in restoring the activity of the G551D CFTR mutation.
  • To investigate the mechanism of CFTR activation by the lead compound.

Main Methods:

  • Synthesis of benzo[c]quinolizinium derivatives.
  • Functional assays including iodide efflux, whole-cell patch clamp, and short-circuit current recordings.
  • Biochemical assays measuring ATPase, GTPase, and adenylate kinase activities.

Main Results:

  • MPB-91, a novel benzo[c]quinolizinium derivative, restored G551D CFTR activity (EC50 = 85 microM) and activated wild-type CFTR in Calu-3 cells (EC50 = 47 microM).
  • MPB-91 did not affect the ATPase activity of CFTR NBD1 or NBD2 domains.
  • CFTR activation by MPB-91 was independent of protein kinase A phosphorylation.

Conclusions:

  • MPB-91 is a potent activator of CFTR, including the G551D mutant.
  • The compound's mechanism of action is independent of phosphorylation and direct interaction with CFTR nucleotide-binding domains.
  • MPB-91 represents a promising therapeutic candidate for cystic fibrosis.

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