Pharmacological evaluation and molecular docking of new di-tert-butylphenol compound, LQFM-091, a new dual 5-LOX/COX inhibitor.

Dual 5-LOX/COX inhibitors are potential new dual drugs to treat inflammatory conditions. This research aimed to design, synthesis and to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of the new compound, which is derived from nimesulide and darbufelone lead compounds. The new dual inhibitor 5-LOX/COX has the possible advantage of gastrointestinal safety. A voltammetric experiment was conducted to observe the drug's antioxidative effect. A formalin test, a hot plate test and carrageenan-induced mechanical hyperalgesia were employed to evaluate the analgesic nature of LQFM-091. To evaluate anti-inflammatory activity, we measured edema, leukocyte count, myeloperoxidase activity and cytokines levels in carrageenan-induced inflammation tests. We elucidated the underlying mechanisms by assessing the interaction the with COXs and LOX enzymes by colorimetric screening assay and molecular docking. The lethal dose (LD ₅₀ ) was estimated using 3T3 Neutral Red Uptake assay. Our results indicate that the LQFM-091 prototype is a powerful antioxidant, as well as able to inhibit COX-1, COX-2 and LOX activities. LQFM091 was classified in GHS category 4 (300<LD ₅₀ <2000mg/Kg). This prototype showed analgesic activity in the formalin test and decreased carrageenan-induced mechanical hyperalgesia. Furthermore, LQFM-091 reduced the paw edema induced by carrageenan and reduced the leukocyte count, myeloperoxidase activity, TNF-α and IL-1β levels in the pleural exudate. Another interesting finding was the absence of gastrointestinal lesions. These data indicate that LQFM-091 produced antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects while maintaining gastrointestinal safety. Furthermore, this compound presented a safe toxicological profile. Blocked COXs and LOX enzymes are important targets for manipulating the mechanism of this compound.
(Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.)