We present the structure-based optimization of a series of estrogen receptor-beta (ERbeta) selective ligands. X-ray cocrystal structures of these ligands complexed to both ERalpha and ERbeta are described. We also discuss how molecular modeling was used to take advantage of subtle differences between the two binding cavities in order to optimize selectivity for ERbeta over ERalpha. Quantum chemical calculations are utilized to gain insight into the mechanism of selectivity enhancement. Despite only two relatively conservative residue substitutions in the ligand binding pocket, the most selective compounds have greater than 100-fold selectivity for ERbeta relative to ERalpha when measured using a competitive radioligand binding assay.

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In an effort to develop orally active farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonists, a series of tetrahydroazepinoindoles with appended solubilizing amine functionalities were synthesized. The crystal structure of the previously disclosed FXR agonist, 1 (FXR-450), aided in the design of compounds with tethered solubilizing functionalities designed to reach the solvent cavity around the hFXR receptor. These compounds were soluble in 0.5% methylcellulose/2% Tween-80 in water (MC/T) for oral administration. In vitro and in vivo optimization led to the identification of 14dd and 14cc, which in a dose-dependent fashion regulated low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc) in low density lipoprotein receptor knockout (LDLR(-/-)) mice. Compound 14cc was dosed in female rhesus monkeys for 4 weeks at 60 mg/kg daily in MC/T vehicle. After 7 days, triglyceride (TG) levels and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDLc) levels were significantly decreased and LDLc was decreased 63%. These data are the first to demonstrate the dramatic lowering of serum LDLc levels by a FXR agonist in primates and supports the potential utility of 14cc in treating dyslipidemia in humans beyond just TG lowering.

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