Qun Dang

Hit-to-Lead Optimization and Discovery of 5-((5-([1,1′-Biphenyl]-4-yl)-6-chloro-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)oxy)-2-methylbenzoic Acid (MK-3903): A Novel Class of Benzimidazole-Based Activators of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) plays an essential role as a cellular energy sensor and master regulator of metabolism in eukaryotes. Dysregulated lipid and carbohydrate metabolism resulting from insulin resistance leads to hyperglycemia, the hallmark of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). While pharmacological activation of AMPK is anticipated to improve these parameters, the discovery of selective, direct activators has proven challenging. We now describe a hit-to-lead effort resulting in the discovery of a potent and selective class of benzimidazole-based direct AMPK activators, exemplified by 5-((5-([1,1-biphenyl]-4-yl)-6-chloro-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)oxy)-2-methylbenzoic acid, 42 (MK-3903). Compound 42 exhibited robust target engagement in mouse liver following oral dosing, leading to improved lipid metabolism and insulin sensitization in mice.

Chapter 11:The Discovery and Development of MB07803, a Second-Generation Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase Inhibitor with Improved Pharmacokinetic Properties, as a Potential Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is a chronic disease affecting 346 million people worldwide, with the World Health Organization projecting that diabetes-related deaths will double between 2005 and 2030. Hyperglycemia is one of many hallmarks for T2DM, which is associated with an increased risk of nephropathy...

2′-Modified Guanosine Analogs for the Treatment of HCV

ABSTRACT Novel 2′-modified guanosine nucleosides were synthesized from inexpensive starting materials in 7–10 steps via hydroazidation or hydrocyanation reactions of the corresponding 2′-olefin. The antiviral effectiveness of the guanosine nucleosides was evaluated by converting them to the corresponding 5′-O-triphosphates (compounds 38–44) and testing their biochemical inhibitory activity against the wild-type NS5B polymerase.