Publications by authors named "Brandon Taoka"

This paper describes the structure-activity-relationships of novel fluoroalkyl substituents at the C2 position of iminothiazine dioxide beta secretase inhibitors. Key discoveries include reduced amidine basicity and its effect on Pgp, cell potency, and efficacy in various preclinical in vivo efficacy animal models. Findings from these structure-activity-relationships are discussed.

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Introduction: The peptide hormone glucagon acts as a counterregulatory response to hypoglycemia and as a key driver in the development of all forms of diabetes. Thus, inhibition of glucagon action, including through antagonism of the glucagon receptor by small molecule therapeutics, has been explored in clinical settings as a means to achieve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and mitigate associated comorbidities.

Areas Covered: This review covers patent applications concerning small molecule glucagon receptor antagonists (GRAs) published between 2015 and 2019.

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A high percentage of patients with the myeloproliferative disorder polycythemia vera (PV) harbor a Val617→Phe activating mutation in the Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) gene, and both cell culture and mouse models have established a functional role for this mutation in the development of this disease. We describe the properties of MRLB-11055, a highly potent inhibitor of both the WT and V617F forms of JAK2, that has therapeutic efficacy in erythropoietin (EPO)-driven and JAK2V617F-driven mouse models of PV. In cultured cells, MRLB-11055 blocked proliferation and induced apoptosis in a manner consistent with JAK2 pathway inhibition.

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The JAK-STAT pathway mediates signaling by cytokines, which control survival, proliferation, and differentiation of a variety of cells. In recent years, a single point mutation (V617F) in the tyrosine kinase JAK2 was found to be present with a high incidence in myeloproliferative disorders (MPDs). This mutation led to hyperactivation of JAK2, cytokine-independent signaling, and subsequent activation of downstream signaling networks.

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Cinchona alkaloids catalyze the enantioselective Mannich reaction of beta-keto esters with acyl aryl imines. The reaction requires 10 mol % of cinchonine or cinchonidine. The reaction products are obtained in good yields (81-99%), high enantioselectivities (80-96% ee), and in diastereoselectivities that range from 1:1 to >95:5.

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Synopsis of recent research by authors named "Brandon Taoka"

  • - Brandon Taoka's recent research primarily focuses on the design and development of novel small molecule inhibitors, particularly those targeting beta-secretase for Alzheimer's disease and Janus kinase (JAK2) for myeloproliferative disorders, highlighting structure-activity relationships and therapeutic efficacy.
  • - His studies reveal critical insights into the pharmacological profiles of these inhibitors, showcasing their potential effectiveness in preclinical models; for instance, the novel JAK2 inhibitors demonstrated significant therapeutic action in both JAK2 V617F-driven models and erythropoietin-driven environments.
  • - Additionally, Taoka has contributed to the understanding of glucagon receptor antagonists, with a comprehensive review of patents and therapeutic advancements in controlling diabetes through small molecules, indicating a broader scope in addressing metabolic diseases alongside hematological disorders.