Optimization of Ascidian-Derived Herdmanine D: Targeting Gouty Arthritis via the PPAR-γ/NF-κB/NLRP3 Pathway

Gouty arthritis, driven by monosodium urate (MSU) crystal deposition and dysregulated inflammation, remains a therapeutic challenge due to the limitations of current treatments. Here, we investigate Herdmanine D (HDD), a marine-derived alkaloid from the ascidian Herdmania momus. It was optimized via structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies and computational modeling to enhance its binding to peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ), which regulates the PPAR-γ/NF-κB signaling pathway in gout pathogenesis. The optimized HDD derivative 9a demonstrated potent PPAR-γ binding affinity and pharmacokinetic properties, effectively suppressing NF-κB-driven pro-inflammatory cytokines in vitro. In murine MSU-induced gouty arthritis models, 9a alleviated synovial inflammation and tissue damage. Mechanistically, 9a activated PPAR-γ to inhibit NF-κB and attenuate NLRP3 inflammasome assembly. This work highlights HDD as a unique marine scaffold for next-generation antigout therapeutics, merging marine natural product safety with rational design to address unmet clinical needs.