Discovery of Novel 5,6-Dihydro-1,2,4-triazine Derivatives as Efficacious Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists

Danuglipron is the most representative small-molecule agonist of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) and has received considerable attention due to positive results in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity in clinical trials. However, hERG inhibition, lower activity than endogenous GLP-1, and a short action time represent limitations in terms of feasible application. In this study, we report a new class of 5,6-dihydro-1,2,4-triazine derivatives that serve to eliminate potential hERG inhibition caused by the piperidine ring of danuglipron. Applying systematic in vitro to in vivo screening, we have identified compound 42 as a highly potent and selective GLP-1R agonist, which delivers improved (7-fold) efficacy in stimulating cAMP accumulation compared with danuglipron and which exhibits acceptable drug-like properties. Furthermore, 42 significantly reduces glucose excursion and inhibits food intake of hGLP-1R Knock-In mice. These effects are longer-lasting than that shown by danuglipron, demonstrating feasibility in the treatment of T2DM and obesity.