Discovery of Alogliptin: A Potent, Selective, Bioavailable, and Efficacious Inhibitor of Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV

Abstract

Alogliptin is a potent, selective inhibitor of the serine protease dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-4). Herein, we describe the structure-based design and optimization of alogliptin and related quinazolinone-based DPP-4 inhibitors. Following an oral dose, these noncovalent inhibitors provide sustained reduction of plasma DPP-4 activity and a lowering of blood glucose in animal models of diabetes. Alogliptin is currently undergoing phase III trials in patients with type 2 diabetes.