Compound repurposing is an efficient method to save both time and costs by redirecting previously synthesized small molecules towards new biological targets. In this research, we employ computational methodologies to investigate and assess target engagement of small molecules as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Therefore, compounds TKI.2a, TKI.2b, TKI.6, TKI.16, TKI.19, and TKI.21b identified from our earlier research, undergo assessments of molecular similarity, docking studies, and pharmacophore modeling along with those discovered through database searches. Compounds TKI.2a, TKI.2b, TKI.6, and TKI.19 appear to exhibit multi-target tyrosine kinase inhibitory activities against VEGFR-2 (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor), RET (proto-oncogene tyrosine–protein kinase receptor), PDGFRα (Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor alpha), EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor), and HER2 (Human Epidermal Receptor) receptors. Pharmacophore models were applied for ligand-based virtual screening using defined parameters to discover candidate compounds that exhibit drug-likeness with FDA (Food and Drug Administration)-approved tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Molecular docking studies identified lead compounds for each biological target based on their overall affinity values and established interactions. Compound ChEMBL2170947 was found to be the most promising candidate for the VEGFR-2 receptor, ChEMBL5019511 for PDGFRα, ChEMBL2216869 for EGFR, and ChEMBL3355044 for HER2.
Mavridis et al. (Sat,) studied this question.