Structural Insights of Benzenesulfonamide Analogues as NLRP3 Inflammasome Inhibitors: Design, Synthesis, and Biological Characterization

NLRP3 inflammasome plays critical roles in a variety of human diseases and represents a promising drug target. In this study, we established the in vivo functional activities of JC124, a previously identified NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor from our group, in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease and acute myocardial infarction. To understand the chemical space of this lead structure, a series of analogues were designed, synthesized, and biologically characterized. The results revealed the critical roles of the two substituents on the benzamide moiety of JC124. On the other hand, modifications on the sulfonamide moiety of JC124 are well tolerated. Two new lead compounds, 14 and 17, were identified with improved inhibitory potency (IC50 values of 0.55 +/- 0.091 and 0.42 +/- 0.080 mu M, respectively). Further characterization confirmed their selectivity and in vivo target engagement. Collectively, the results strongly encourage further development of more potent analogues based on this chemical scaffold.