Synthesis of a Hydrogen Isotope-Labeled SGLT1 C-Glucoside Ligand for Distribution and Metabolic Fate Studies

Over the last decades, a novel immunological function was established for the sodium–glucose co-transporter 1 (SGLT1), a protein involved in sugar absorption in the small intestine. High-glucose dosage and pharmacological concentrations of a C-glucoside analog showed a protective role in in vitro and in vivo models of severe inflammation states; experimental evidence suggests the engagement of SGLT1 in these processes. The mechanism of action underlying the protection is still unclear. To enhance our understand- ing of the molecular mechanisms responsible for this protection, we have developed a synthesis for the preparation of hydrogen isotope-labeled versions of the C-glucoside hit compound. Specifically, we report the synthesis of the deuterium-labeled derivative, which can be utilized for mass spectrometry-based research to examine the compound’s metabolic pathway, distribution, and cellular/tissue localization. The synthetic method developed can be extended to produce the tritiated analog, serving as a radioactive tracer.