Discovery of a Parenteral Small Molecule Coagulation Factor XIa Inhibitor Clinical Candidate (BMS-962212)

Donald J P Pinto1, Michael J Orwat1, Leon M Smith1

  • 1Research and Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company , P.O. Box 5400, Princeton, New Jersey 08543, United States.

Insights

Researchers discovered BMS-962212, a potent small molecule inhibitor of Factor XIa (FXIa). This drug candidate shows promise for acute antithrombotic therapy in hospitals, effectively blocking clot formation without impairing normal hemostasis.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Pharmacology
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Factor XIa (FXIa) is a key enzyme in blood coagulation, amplifying thrombin generation.
  • Inhibiting FXIa is a promising strategy for antithrombotic therapy, potentially preventing pathological thrombosis while maintaining hemostasis.
  • Developing FXIa inhibitors for acute hospital-based treatments is an active area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discover and characterize potent, selective small molecule inhibitors of FXIa.
  • To identify a clinical candidate suitable for intravenous administration as an acute antithrombotic agent.
  • To evaluate the preclinical efficacy and safety profile of novel FXIa inhibitors.

Main Methods:

  • Screening for and optimizing small molecule inhibitors targeting FXIa.
  • Biochemical assays to determine inhibitor potency (e.g., Ki values) and selectivity.
  • Preclinical thrombosis models to assess antithrombotic efficacy and bleeding risk.

Main Results:

  • Discovery of compound 55 (BMS-962212), a potent FXIa inhibitor with a Ki of 0.7 nM.
  • Demonstrated excellent preclinical antithrombotic efficacy in relevant thrombosis models.
  • Compound 55 exhibits suitable aqueous solubility for intravenous administration and is a reversible, direct, and highly selective inhibitor.

Conclusions:

  • BMS-962212 is a promising clinical candidate for FXIa inhibition.
  • This compound has potential as an acute antithrombotic agent for hospital settings.
  • The findings support the therapeutic potential of direct FXIa inhibition in managing thrombotic events.

Related Concept Videos