HPK1-Targeting PROTAC Chimeras for Cell-Penetrant Degradation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing PROTAC compounds targeting HPK1 have difficulty entering cells and are not effective in degrading HPK1, leading to inadequate treatment of diseases mediated by HPK1, such as tumors, inflammatory diseases, and immunological diseases.

Innovation Solution

A novel PROTAC compound with a specific structure, represented by [B-L] n -HPK1 ligand, which includes an HPK1 ligand, a degradation tag (E3 ligase ligand), and a linking group, designed to selectively degrade HPK1, enhancing solubility, stability, bioavailability, and safety while reducing toxicity and drug resistance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional PROTAC compounds with large and bulky peptide linkages are used, then the degradation function can be achieved, but the compounds have difficulty entering cells

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedegradation functionVSAvoidcell penetration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the molecular parameters of the PROTAC compound by replacing large peptide linkages with small molecule linkages and optimizing the molecular weight and lipophilicity of the compound to enhance cell penetration while maintaining degradation function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a composite PROTAC molecule combining an E3 ligase ligand, a linker, and an HPK1 ligand in a specific structural arrangement that facilitates both cell entry and target degradation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If existing PROTAC compounds are used to target HPK1, then some degradation effect is achieved, but the compounds are not effective in degrading HPK1

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveHPK1 degradation effectivenessVSAvoiddegradation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes the local binding affinity of the HPK1 ligand portion of the PROTAC compound to enhance specific binding to HPK1, thereby improving degradation effectiveness and efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis to identify and synthesize optimized ligands that replicate and improve upon the binding characteristics of existing HPK1 inhibitors

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If existing PROTAC compounds are used, then some treatment effect is achieved, but toxicity and drug resistance issues remain

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetreatment effectVSAvoidtoxicity and drug resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies pharmacokinetic parameters of the PROTAC compound including solubility, metabolic stability, and half-life to reduce toxicity and prevent drug resistance while maintaining treatment effectiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a carefully designed linker that acts as an intermediary between the E3 ligase ligand and HPK1 ligand, optimizing the compound's interaction with cellular systems to minimize harmful effects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The compound effectively induces HPK1 degradation, increases IL2 production, and demonstrates good physicochemical properties, pharmacokinetic properties, and safety, making it suitable for treating diseases like tumors, inflammatory diseases, and immunological diseases.

Implementation Method 1

The proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology stems from scientists' discovery of the ubiquitin (Ub) regulated protein degradation process. When it is linked to proteins, it causes these proteins to be transported to the proteasome for degradation.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUbiquitin-mediated protein degradation:

Data Source

PatentEP4635956A1Protac chimeric compound, preparation method therefor and use thereof
Publication Date: 2025.10.22 HANGZHOU ZHONGMEI HUADONG PHARMACEUTICAL CO LTD
  • EP4635956A1 patent drawing
  • EP4635956A1 patent drawing
  • EP4635956A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A compound represented by general formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or a stereoisomer thereof, and a use thereof in treating diseases such as tumors, immunological diseases, and inflammatory diseases, as well as a pharmaceutical preparation and a pharmaceutical composition of the compound, and a use thereof.