Bicyclic Inhibitors of Branched-Chain α-Keto Acid Dehydrogenase Kinase (BDK) with In Vivo Activity.

Elevated levels of the branched chain α-amino acids valine, leucine, and isoleucine are associated with heart disease and metabolic disorders. The kinase BDK, also known as branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase kinase (BCKDK), is a negative regulator of branched-chain α-amino acid metabolism through deactivation of BCKDC, the branched-chain α-ketoacid dehydrogenase complex. Inhibitors of BDK increase the activity of BCKDC and could be useful therapeutic leads for cardiometabolic diseases. We describe a novel bicyclic carboxy amide as an inhibitor of BDK with in vivo activity.