Design, synthesis and structure–activity relationship of new HSL inhibitors guided by pharmacophore models

Hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) is a critical enzyme involved in the hormonally regulated release of fatty acids and glycerol from adipocyte lipid stores. Its inhibition may improve insulin sensitivity and blood glucose handling in type 2 diabetes. Accordingly, many small-molecule HSL inhibitors have recently been identified. In continuation of our efforts for discovery of new HSL inhibitors, we prepared a variety of esters, amides, sulfonamides and sulfonate esters capable of fitting two pharmacophore models that we developed and published earlier. The tested compounds were synthesized via coupling reactions of aroyl chlorides or sulfonyl chlorides with phenols, amines and related derivatives. Our efforts led to the identification of interesting compounds of low micromolar anti-HSL bioactivities, which have potential to be developed into effective antidiabetic agents.