New targeted drug could aid in smoking reduction therapy

Scientists have been developing a targeted drug that could aid in smoking reduction therapy.

The new drug slows down the metabolism of nicotine, which would help smokers to cut down their smoking.

The work is being conducted by researchers working in a research project within the Academy of Finland's Research Programme on Substance Use and Addictions.

Nicotine is absorbed rapidly through the lining of the mouth but most readily through the lungs, from where it quickly passes through the body and into the brain. Once the nicotine reaches the liver, it is metabolised by an enzyme called CYP2A6. Preliminary studies by the Canadian partner of the research project have shown that inhibitors of the nicotine-metabolising CYP2A6 enzyme can help smokers curb the need to smoke.

Unfortunately, current CYP2A6 inhibitors are not viable options for anti-smoking therapy, as they involve too many adverse effects.

"We're working on developing a CYP2A6 inhibitor, a targeted drug that would only be effective in specific parts of the body. Thankfully, we have a very clear picture of the structure of CYP2A6, and we'll be able to use computer-aided modelling methods to design molecules that will bind specifically to the target without disturbing other functions in the body," said Hannu Raunio, the principal investigator of the research project and Professor of Pharmacology at the University of Eastern Finland.

"We've now finished our four-year project and have discovered several molecules of an until-now-unknown structure. Along the way, we've gained new insights into how the molecules bind to the active centre of the CYP2A6 enzyme. However, it'll take a good while - and money - before these molecules can be developed into a targeted drug," Raunio added.