Discovery of a novel CD39 inhibitor by DNA-encoded library screening

Simin Wang1, Jiannan Zhao2, Takashi Nakai3

  • 1College of Chemistry, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Pingyuan Laboratory, Zhengzhou 450001, China.

Insights

Researchers discovered a novel CD39 small molecule inhibitor, compound 338, using DNA-encoded library technology. This compound shows promise as an anti-tumor therapeutic agent due to its potent CD39 inhibition and good druggability.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pharmacology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • The ATP-adenosine pathway is crucial for adaptive immunity and influences tumor growth.
  • CD39, an extracellular nucleotidase, is a key regulator in this pathway and a potential target for cancer therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discover and characterize novel small molecule inhibitors of CD39 for potential anti-tumor applications.

Main Methods:

  • DNA-encoded library (DEL) technology was employed to identify potential CD39 inhibitors.
  • Compound 338 was synthesized and its inhibitory activity against CD39 was evaluated.
  • Molecular docking and Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) were used to assess binding interactions.
  • Anti-proliferative effects on tumor cells and toxicity on normal cells were tested.

Main Results:

  • A novel CD39 inhibitor, compound 338, was identified with an IC50 value of 68.7 nM.
  • Compound 338 demonstrated moderate anti-proliferative effects on tumor cells and low toxicity on normal cell lines.
  • Molecular docking and SPR confirmed robust binding interactions between compound 338 and CD39.

Conclusions:

  • Compound 338 exhibits strong CD39 inhibitory activity and favorable druggability characteristics.
  • This novel inhibitor represents a potential therapeutic agent for anti-tumor therapy and warrants further optimization.