Genz-123346 (free base)

Genz-123346 (free base) is an inhibitor of GL1 synthase that blocks the conversion of ceramide to GL1; inhibits GM1 with IC₅₀ value of 14 nM. IC50 & Target: IC50: 14 nM (GM1)^[1] In Vitro: Exposure of cells to Genz-123346 and to other GCS inhibitors at nontoxic concentrations can enhance the killing of tumor cells by cytotoxic anti-cancer agents. Genz-123346 and a few other GCS inhibitors are substrates for multi-drug resistance efflux pumps such as P-gp (ABCB1, gP-170). In cell lines selected to over-express P-gp or which endogenously express P-gp, chemosensitization by Genz-123346 is primarily due to the effects on P-gp function^[2]. Genz-123346(Genz) is an enhancer of autophagy flux^[3]. In Vivo: In the Zucker diabetic fatty rat, Genz-123346 loared glucose and A1C levels and improved glucose tolerance. Drug treatment also prevented the loss of pancreatic beta-cell function and preserved the ability of the animals to secrete insulin. In the diet-induced obese mouse, treatment with Genz-123346 normalized A1C levels and improved glucose tolerance. The oral bioavailability of the drug is shown to be about 10% and 30% in mice and rats, respectively, with a half-life in plasma of 30–60 min^[1]. Genz-123346 treatment results in a dose-dependent reduction of renal GlcCer and GM3 levels that translates into effective inhibition of cystic disease. A direct effect of Genz-123346 on the Akt-mTOR signaling pathway is observed, with reduced phosphorylation of Akt and ribosomal protein S6^[4].