Computational Drug Repurposing Approach to Identify Potential Fatty Acid-Binding Protein-4 Inhibitors to Develop Novel Antiobesity Therapy

Abstract

Obesity is a chronic human disorder caused by multiple factors, causing excessive accumulation of fat because of the disparity in take of energy intake with respect to its expenditure. Genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors are having a crucial role in its pathogenesis. Fatty acid-binding protein (FABP) is a superfamily that was involved in the transportation, metabolism, and storage of lipids. The experimental studies have revealed that there is a significant rise in the fatty acid-binding protein-4 (FABP4) expression, and plasma concentration in obese and its downregulation or inhibition can be a potential drug target for obesity. Repurposing of drugs is a trending method for the identification of the newer pharmacological action of an established drug molecule having initially approved indication. It is a cost-effective and economical approach for the development of alternative therapies for existing dreadful diseases in quick succession. Thus, the in silico drug repurposing technique is a highly effective approach for identifying an existing drug molecule having an antiobesity therapeutic activity against the human FABP4, and Floxacillin was selected as safe and effective drug for candidates for developing an antiobesity therapy.