Unlocking potential diabetes therapeutics: Insights into alpha-glucosidase inhibition

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) stands as a significant global health challenge, ranking third among causes of mortality worldwide. Despite extensive endeavors, effective treatments for diabetes remain elusive. Alpha-glucosidase, a pivotal enzyme in glycoprotein metabolism regulation, emerges as a promising therapeutic target for mitigating postprandial hyperglycemia, a hallmark of diabetes. In this study, we employed advanced computational methodologies to identify inhibitors of lysosomal α-glucosidase. Leveraging pharmacophore-based virtual screening of a vast library of drug-like molecules, we unearthed 161 potential inhibitors capable of binding within the enzyme's active pocket. Subsequent molecular docking simulations yielded five lead molecules exhibiting robust binding affinities and favorable interaction profiles with critical catalytic residues. Further analysis through molecular dynamics simulations provided crucial insights into the stability and conformational dynamics of the inhibitor-enzyme complexes. Notably, certain residues emerged as pivotal for the retention of inhibitors within the active site. Our findings underscore the potential of LIG1-LIG5 as promising inhibitors against lysosomal α-glucosidase, presenting novel avenues for the development of effective diabetes therapeutics. This research enriches our understanding of the molecular underpinnings of diabetes treatment, facilitating targeted drug development strategies in the quest for improved patient outcomes.