Synthesis of a novel series of imidazo[1,2-α]pyridines as Acyl-CoA: cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT) inhibitors

Abstract

A novel series of imidazo[1,2-α]pyridines was designed, synthesized, and tested for their ability to inhibit acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase. Preliminary lead optimization efforts resulted in the identification of ACAT inhibitors represented by analogues 5b, 5c, 6a, 6c, 7b, and 7c. The ACAT inhibitory activity of these compounds was further established by potent inhibition of cholesteryl ester formation in HepG2 cells by a representative analogue 7b.