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Optimizing Ligand Efficiency of Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs)
Anthony L Handlon1, Lee T Schaller1, Lisa M Leesnitzer1
1Metabolic Pathways Cardiovascular Unit and Platform Technology & Science, GlaxoSmithKline , 709 Swedeland Road, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania 19406-0939, United States.
Researchers developed potent selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) using a novel core structure. Optimization guided by lipophilic ligand efficiency (LLE) yielded a SARM with nanomolar potency and excellent drug-like properties.
Area of Science:
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Pharmacology
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) are being investigated for therapeutic applications.
- Optimization of SARMs requires balancing potency with favorable drug-like properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) with a 1-(trifluoromethyl)benzyl alcohol core.
- To improve androgen receptor (AR) potency and drug-like characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Utilized lipophilic ligand efficiency (LLE) as a guiding parameter for structural modifications.
- Synthesized and evaluated a series of novel SARM compounds.
Main Results:
- Achieved a significant increase in LLE over 3 log units during optimization.
- Identified SARM 43 with nanomolar potency against the androgen receptor.
- SARM 43 demonstrated good aqueous kinetic solubility (>700 μM) and high oral bioavailability (83%) in rats.
Conclusions:
- The 1-(trifluoromethyl)benzyl alcohol core is a viable scaffold for developing potent SARMs.
- Lipophilic ligand efficiency (LLE) is an effective metric for guiding SARM optimization.
- SARM 43 represents a promising drug candidate with favorable pharmacokinetic properties.
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