Targeting Sterol O-Acyltransferase/Acyl-CoA:Cholesterol Acyltransferase (ACAT): A Perspective on Small-Molecule Inhibitors and Their Therapeutic Potential

J Med Chem. 2022 Dec 22;65(24):16062-16098. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01265. Epub 2022 Dec 6.

Abstract

Sterol O-acyltransferase (SOAT) is a membrane-bound enzyme that aids the esterification of cholesterol and fatty acids to cholesterol esters. SOAT has been studied extensively as a potential drug target, since its inhibition can serve as an alternative to statin therapy. Two SOAT isozymes that have discrete functions in the human body, namely, SOAT1 and SOAT2, have been characterized. Over three decades of research has focused on candidate SOAT1 inhibitors with unsatisfactory results in clinical trials. Recent research has focused on targeting SOAT2 selectively. In this perspective, we summarize the literature covering various SOAT inhibitory agents and discuss the design, structural requirements, and mode of action of SOAT inhibitors.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural

MeSH terms

  • Acyl Coenzyme A*
  • Cholesterol
  • Humans
  • Sterol O-Acyltransferase*

Substances

  • Sterol O-Acyltransferase
  • Acyl Coenzyme A
  • Cholesterol