Design and synthesis of potent inhibitors of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) exploiting a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline platform

Tetrahydroquinoline A is a potent inhibitor of the cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP), a target for the treatment of low HDL-C and atherosclerosis. Low HDL-C has been identified as a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease in addition to high LDL-C, the target of the statin drugs. Tetrahydroquinoline A inhibits partially purified CETP with an IC₅₀ of 39 nM. The preparation of a series of potent inhibitors of CETP designed around a 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline platform will be discussed.