Thiazolidinedione derivatives as PTP1B inhibitors with antihyperglycemic and antiobesity effects

Benzylidene-2,4-thiazolidinedione derivatives with substitutions on the phenyl ring at the ortho or para positions of the thiazolidinedione (TZD) group were synthesized as PTP1B inhibitors with IC50 values in a low micromolar range. Compound 3e, the lowest, bore an IC50 of 5.0 μM. In vivo efficacy of 3e as an antiobesity and hypoglycemic agent was evaluated in a mouse model system. Significant improvement of glucose tolerance was observed. This compound also significantly suppressed weight gain and significantly improved blood parameters such as TG, total cholesterol and NEFA. Compound 3e was also found to activate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) indicating multiple mechanisms of action.

Graphical abstractCompound 3e inhibited PTP1B, improved glucose tolerance, suppressed weight gain, and improved blood parameters in a mouse model system.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide