Cinnamoyl inhibitors of tissue transglutaminase

Transglutaminases (TGases) catalyze the intermolecular cross-linking of certain proteins and tissue TGases (TG2) are involved in diverse biological processes. Unregulated, high TGase activities have been implicated in several physiological disorders, but few reversible inhibitors of TG2 have been reported. Herein, we report the synthesis of a series of novel trans-cinammoyl derivatives, discovered to be potent inhibitors of guinea pig liver transglutaminase. The most effective inhibitors evaluated can be sorted into two subclasses: substituted cinnamoyl benzotriazolyl amides and the 3-(substituted cinnamoyl)pyridines, referred to more commonly as azachalcones. Kinetic evaluation of both of these subclasses revealed that they display reversible inhibition and are competitive with acyl donor TGase substrates at IC50 values as low as 18 microM. An analysis of structure-activity relationships within these series of inhibitors permitted the identification of potentially important binding interactions. Further testing of some of the most potent inhibitors demonstrated their selectivity for TG2 and their potential for further development.