Targeting Myeloperoxidase Ameliorates Gouty Arthritis: A Virtual Screening Success Story

J Med Chem. 2024 Jul 25;67(14):12012-12032. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00721. Epub 2024 Jul 11.

Abstract

This study presents a new approach for identifying myeloperoxidase (MPO) inhibitors with strong in vivo efficacy. By combining inhibitor-like rules and structure-based virtual screening, the pipeline achieved a 70% success rate in discovering diverse, nanomolar-potency reversible inhibitors and hypochlorous acid (HOCl) scavengers. Mechanistic analysis identified RL6 as a genuine MPO inhibitor and RL7 as a potent HOCl scavenger. Both compounds effectively suppressed HOCl production in cells and neutrophils, with RL6 showing a superior inhibition of neutrophil extracellular trap release (NETosis). In a gout arthritis mouse model, intraperitoneal RL6 administration reduced edema, peroxidase activity, and IL-1β levels. RL6 also exhibited oral bioavailability, significantly reducing paw edema when administered orally. This study highlights the efficacy of integrating diverse screening methods to enhance virtual screening success, validating the anti-inflammatory potential of potent inhibitors, and advancing the MPO inhibitor research.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arthritis, Gouty* / drug therapy
  • Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / chemistry
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Hypochlorous Acid
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Neutrophils / drug effects
  • Neutrophils / metabolism
  • Peroxidase* / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Peroxidase* / metabolism
  • Structure-Activity Relationship

Substances

  • Peroxidase
  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Hypochlorous Acid