Synthesis of dolutegravir derivatives modified by 1,2,3-triazole structure and their anti-inflammatory activity in LPS-induced BV2 cells

Given the promising anti-inflammatory activity of the HIV integrase inhibitor dolutegravir and the widespread use of the 1,2,3-triazole structure in anti-inflammatory drug development, this study aimed to enhance dolutegravir’s efficacy by introducing a 1,2,3-triazole group. As a result, four series of dolutegravir derivatives were synthesized. Screening these derivatives for anti-inflammatory activity in microglial cells revealed that compound 6k demonstrated the most potent anti-inflammatory effect without significant cytotoxicity. Specifically, 6k significantly reduced the transcription levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced BV-2 microglial cells. Additionally, 6k decreased the LPS-induced overproduction of inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide (NO), IL-6, and TNF-α. Further investigation into the upstream inflammatory enzymes iNOS and COX-2 showed that 6k markedly reduced their transcription and protein levels. To elucidate the mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of dolutegravir derivatives, it was found that compound 6k modulates microglial inflammation by inhibiting the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1/3 (STAT1/3). Moreover, acute toxicity testing in mice indicated that compound 6k exhibited low toxicity, suggesting its potential as a lead compound for the treatment of neuroinflammation.