The ISRIB (eIF2B activator) is widely recognized for its excellence in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. However, the structure–activity relationship of ISRIB is not clear. Here, we identify two classes of structurally novel eIF2B activators through molecular docking and rational drug design. The results indicate that highly active compounds can be obtained by eliminating intramolecular hydrogen bonds or cis–trans isomerization.

Abstract

The eukaryotic initiation factor 2B (eIF2B) is a key regulator in protein-regulated signaling pathways and is closely related to the function of the central nervous system. Modulating eIF2B could retard the process of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and vanishing white matter disease (VWM) et al. Here, we designed and synthesized a series of novel eIF2B activators containing oxadiazole fragments. The activating effects of compounds on eIF2B were investigated through testing the inhibition of ATF4 expression. Of all the targeted compounds, compounds 21 and 29 exhibited potent inhibition on ATF4 expression with IC₅₀ values of 32.43 nM and 47.71 nM, respectively, which were stronger than that of ISRIB (IC₅₀=67.90 nM). ATF4 mRNA assay showed that these two compounds could restore ATF4 mRNA to normal levels in thapsigargin-stimulated HeLa cells. Protein Translation assay showed that both compounds were effective in restoring protein synthesis. Compound potency assay showed that both compounds had similar potency to ISRIB with EC₅₀ values of 5.844 and 37.70 nM. Cytotoxicity assay revealed that compounds 21 and 29 had low toxicity and were worth further investigation.