Structure Merging Approach Leads to New Dual Potent and Selective USP25/USP28 Inhibitors

Abstract

USP25 and USP28 are critical deubiquitylases (DUBs) that have been implicated in various diseases, particularly cancer and cardiac dysfunction. Several small-molecule inhibitors have been reported, exhibiting dual inhibitory activity in the low micromolar range. In this study, we present a strategy that merges structural features of the previously identified inhibitors AZ1 and vismodegib to develop a new class of potent dual inhibitors. Several of these newly synthesized compounds exhibit high potency across multiple orthogonal assays and demonstrate excellent selectivity over other ubiquitin-specific proteases. Moreover, a suitable negative control has also been identified, supporting the validity of the observed effects in cellular assays. These results highlight the potential of these compounds to serve as advanced chemical probes for dual USP25/USP28 inhibition and as candidates for further therapeutic development.