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Updated: May 13, 2026

A Bilingual Computational Workflow for Identifying Potential PLK1 Inhibitors in American Sign Language and English
Published on: April 3, 2026
Structure-based design, SAR analysis and antitumor activity of PI3K/mTOR dual inhibitors from
Hengmiao Cheng1, Jacqui E Hoffman, Phuong T Le
1Cancer Chemistry, Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, La Jolla Laboratories, 10770 Science Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92121, USA. henry.cheng@pfizer.com
Abstract:
PI3K, AKT and mTOR, key kinases from a frequently dysregulated PI3K signaling pathway, have been extensively pursued to treat a variety of cancers in oncology. Clinical trials of PF-04691502, a highly potent and selective ATP competitive kinase inhibitor of class 1 PI3Ks and mTOR, from 4-methylpyridopyrimidinone series, led to the discovery of a metabolite with a terminal carboxylic acid, PF-06465603. This paper discusses structure-based drug design, SAR and antitumor activity of the MPP derivatives with a terminal alcohol, a carboxylic acid or a carboxyl amide.
Insights
Researchers explored novel cancer drug candidates based on PI3K/mTOR inhibitors. Structure-based design yielded new compounds with potential antitumor activity, advancing cancer therapy research.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway, involving key kinases like PI3K, AKT, and mTOR, is frequently dysregulated in various cancers.
- Targeting this pathway is a significant strategy in oncology drug development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss structure-based drug design, structure-activity relationships (SAR), and antitumor activity of novel 4-methylpyridopyrimidinone (MPP) derivatives.
- To explore MPP derivatives featuring terminal alcohol, carboxylic acid, or carboxyl amide functionalities.
Main Methods:
- Structure-based drug design principles were applied.
- Synthesis and characterization of MPP derivatives.
- Evaluation of antitumor activity and structure-activity relationships (SAR).
Main Results:
- Discovery of PF-06465603, a metabolite of PF-04691502, with a terminal carboxylic acid.
- Identification of MPP derivatives with terminal alcohol, carboxylic acid, or carboxyl amide groups.
- Assessment of the antitumor potential of these novel derivatives.
Conclusions:
- The study presents advancements in the design and evaluation of PI3K/mTOR inhibitors for cancer treatment.
- MPP derivatives with specific terminal functional groups show promise for further drug development in oncology.
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