We have designed more potent inhibitors from the previously reported LF 05-0038, a 6- isoquinolinol based inhibitor of 2, 3-oxidosqualene cyclase (IC 50: 1.1 μM). Replacement of the 3-OH group by various 3-substituted amino groups, and modification of the alkyl chain borne by the endocyclic nitrogen led to inhibitors with IC 50 in the range of 0.15 to 1 μM. In a second step, opening of the bicyclic ring system afforded the corresponding ...