Discovery of a potent and selective TRPC3 antagonist with neuroprotective effects

Jiaxing Wang1, Sicheng Zhang1, Vijay K Boda1

  • 1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, United States.

PubMed

Insights

Researchers developed a novel TRPC3 antagonist, compound 60a, showing improved potency and selectivity for potential therapeutic use in diseases linked to TRPC3 protein dysfunction.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Medicinal Chemistry

Background:

  • TRPC3 protein is crucial for calcium signaling and cell function.
  • Dysregulated TRPC3 expression is linked to cardiovascular diseases, tumors, and neurodegeneration.
  • Selective TRPC3 antagonists are needed due to TRPC3's distinct disease roles compared to TRPC6/TRPC7.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To design and synthesize novel TRPC3 antagonists.
  • To identify a potent and selective TRPC3 antagonist with favorable drug-like properties.
  • To evaluate the therapeutic potential of novel TRPC3 antagonists.

Main Methods:

  • Medicinal chemistry synthesis and structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies.
  • Design and synthesis of 31 novel TRPC3 antagonists based on the JW-65 scaffold.
  • In vitro evaluation of antagonist potency, selectivity, and neuronal protective effects.
  • Molecular modeling to elucidate potential mechanisms of action.

Main Results:

  • Thirty-one novel TRPC3 antagonists were synthesized.
  • Compound 60a demonstrated a 4-fold increase in potency and exceptional selectivity.
  • Compound 60a exhibited favorable drug-like properties and enhanced in vitro neuronal protection.
  • Molecular modeling provided insights into TRPC3-antagonist interactions.

Conclusions:

  • Compound 60a is a promising TRPC3 antagonist with potential for clinical development.
  • This compound may be beneficial for treating conditions associated with TRPC3 dysregulation.
  • The developed antagonists offer new therapeutic avenues for TRPC3-related pathologies.