Applying structure-based drug design to target UrdA
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Implexion Pharma AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 500 000 |
| Project duration | February 2020 - July 2021 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Research infrastructure - utilisation and collaboration |
| Call | Industrial pilot projects for the utilisation of neutron and photon based techniques at large-scale infrastructures - Autumn 2019 |
| End-of-project report | 2019-05255_ImplexionPharma.pdf (pdf, 403 kB) |
Important results from the project
The overall purpose was to explore a novel target for potential treatment of type 2 diabetes. The target selection was based on the recent finding that imidazole propionate (ImP) produced by bacteria in patients with type 2 diabetes can contribute to disease. Hence, blocking ImP production would potentially reduce diabetic symptoms. ImP is a metabolite produced by the enzyme UrdA. Thus, the overall goal was to produce and validate inhibitors of UrdA by performing structure-based drug design.
Expected long term effects
The project has scientifically been very successful and strengthened the consortium between Lund University and Implexion Pharma AB. Several candidate compounds blocking UrdA activity has been identified. The structure-function relationship has been validated by performing structure-based drug design utilizing X-ray data from the large synchrotron facilities for three different UrdA inhibitors, confirming a large success of the program.
Approach and implementation
The formed consortium has been optimal to execute the proposed project as the project leader Prof. Lindkvist is an expert in the structural biology and Implexion Pharma AB with Prof Bäckhed expert in the human microbiome and its connection to type 2 diabetes. A strong collaboration has been established by regular meetings with vivid scientific and technical discussions. All the deliverables have successfully been executed and will contribute to improve drug development for type 2 diabetes.