Structure-based design and synthesis of novel P2/P3 modified, non-peptidic β-secretase (BACE-1) inhibitors

Starting from peptidomimetic BACE-1 inhibitors, the P2 amino acid including the P2/P3 peptide bond was replaced by a rigid 3-aminomethyl cyclohexane carboxylic acid. Co-crystallization revealed an unexpected binding mode with the P3/P4 amide bond placed into the S3 pocket resulting in a new hydrogen bond interaction pattern. Further optimization based on this structure resulted in highly potent BACE-1 inhibitors with selectivity over BACE-2 and cathepsin D.

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