Synthesis and evaluation of novel stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 inhibitors: 1′-{6-[5-(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]pyridazin-3-yl}-3,4-dihydrospiro[chromene-2,4′-piperidine] analogs

In continuation of our investigation on novel stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) 1 inhibitors, we have already reported on the structural modification of the benzoylpiperidines that led to a series of novel and highly potent spiropiperidine-based SCD1 inhibitors. In this report, we would like to extend the scope of our previous investigation and disclose details of the synthesis, SAR, ADME, PK, and pharmacological evaluation of the spiropiperidines with high potency for SCD1 inhibition. Our current efforts have culminated in the identification of 5-fluoro-1′-{6-[5-(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]pyridazin-3-yl}-3,4-dihydrospiro[chromene-2,4′-piperidine] (10e), which demonstrated a very strong potency for liver SCD1 inhibition (ID50 = 0.6 mg/kg). This highly efficacious inhibition is presumed to be the result of a combination of strong enzymatic inhibitory activity (IC50 (mouse) = 2 nM) and good oral bioavailability (F >95%). Pharmacological evaluation of 10e has demonstrated potent, dose-dependent reduction of the plasma desaturation index in C57BL/6J mice on a high carbohydrate diet after a 7-day oral administration (q.d.). In addition, it did not cause any noticeable skin abnormalities up to the highest dose (10 mg/kg).

Graphical abstractThe synthesis, SAR, ADME, PK, and pharmacological evaluation of the spiropiperidine-based highly potent SCD1 inhibitors are disclosed in detail. A representative compound from this series demonstrated potent, dose-dependent reduction of the plasma desaturation index in C57BL/6J mice on a high carbohydrate diet after a 7-day oral administration (q.d.). In addition, it did not cause noticeable abnormalities in the skin up to the highest dose (10 mg/kg).Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide