Human Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Enzymology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Humans express 15 carbonic anhydrase (CA) isoforms, vital metalloenzymes catalyzing CO2 hydration.
• CA enzymes play roles in numerous physiological and pathological processes.
• CA inhibitors are established therapeutics for glaucoma, epilepsy, and obesity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diverse applications of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.
• To explore novel therapeutic uses for CA inhibitors.
• To discuss the development of new CA inhibitor chemotypes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of CA isoforms and their inhibitors.
• Analysis of existing and potential therapeutic applications.
• Examination of over 45 chemotypes with CA inhibitory activity.

Main Results:

• CA inhibitors are clinically used for multiple conditions.
• Emerging applications include anti-cancer and anti-metastatic therapies.
• Potential uses in managing cerebral ischemia, rheumatoid arthritis, and neurodegenerative disorders are highlighted.

Conclusions:

• Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors represent a versatile class of therapeutic agents.
• Ongoing research into novel CA inhibitors may yield treatments for unmet medical needs.
• The broad physiological roles of CAs support their targeting for diverse diseases.