Discovery of novel heterocyclic derivatives containing oxadiazolone or pyrimidinone cores as DPP-4 inhibitors

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by insulin resistance and alterations in incretin secretion, such as the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone. GLP-1 plays a crucial role in signaling insulin production in the pancreas, with its activity regulated by the dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) enzyme. DPP-4 presents an intriguing strategy for controlling type 2 diabetes. This study focuses on synthesizing 22 novel oxadiazolone and pyrimidinone derivatives, in vitro DPP-4 inhibition, and elucidating binding modes through molecular docking simulations. Nine compounds showed promising inhibitory activity, with IC₅₀ values ranging from 0.3 to 1.86 mM. Molecular docking simulations revealed interactions between these compounds and critical residues in the enzyme's active site, such as Arg125, Glu206, Ser630, and His740. This investigation introduces a new class of DPP-4 inhibitors, providing insights into the design of more potent molecules as potential candidates for combating type 2 diabetes. The findings contribute to developing innovative therapeutics for managing this prevalent metabolic disorder.