Discovery of N-Ethyl Sulfonamide Derivatives as Potent Intestinal-Restricted Farnesoid X Receptor Antagonists for the Treatment of Metabolic Disorders

Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) plays a critical role in regulating bile acid and lipid metabolism, and intestinal FXR antagonism contributes to significant metabolic improvements. Herein, we report the discovery of a series of FXR antagonists featuring an N-ethyl sulfonamide scaffold. Through systematic structural optimization and structure-activity relationship studies, 101 derivatives were synthesized, among which F44-S101 was identified as a potent and selective intestine-restricted FXR antagonist with an IC₅₀ value of 0.48 μM. In Triton-induced hyperlipidemic mice, F44-S101 significantly reduced total Cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein Cholesterol levels. In high-fat diet-fed mice, F44-S101 ameliorated lipid metabolic disorders, decreased adipose mass, and lowered serum ceramide levels. Mechanistically, F44-S101 selectively antagonizes intestinal FXR and feedback-activates hepatic FXR, thereby promoting Cholesterol metabolism and reducing lipid accumulation. Collectively, these findings highlight F44-S101 as a promising lead compound for hyperlipidemia and support intestinal FXR antagonism as a potential therapeutic strategy for metabolic disorders.