PMID: 30675988
Authors:
Albert L, Penalver A, Djokovic N, Werel L, Hoffarth M, Ruzic D, Xu J, Essen LO, Nikolic K, Dou Y, Vazquez O
Title:
Modulating Protein-Protein Interactions with Visible-Light-Responsive Peptide Backbone Photoswitches.
Journal:
Chembiochem. 2019 Jun 3;20(11):1417-1429. doi: 10.1002/cbic.201800737. Epub 2019 , Apr 25.
Abstract:
Life relies on a myriad of carefully orchestrated processes, in which proteins and their direct interplay ultimately determine cellular function and disease. Modulation of this complex crosstalk has recently attracted attention, even as a novel therapeutic strategy. Herein, we describe the synthesis and characterization of two visible-light-responsive peptide backbone photoswitches based on azobenzene derivatives, to exert optical control over protein-protein interactions (PPI). The novel peptidomimetics undergo fast and reversible isomerization with low photochemical fatigue under alternatively blue-/green-light irradiation cycles. Both bind in the nanomolar range to the protein of interest. Importantly, the best peptidomimetic displays a clear difference between isomers in its protein-binding capacity and, in turn, in its potential to inhibit enzymatic activity through PPI disruption. In addition, crystal structure determination, docking and molecular dynamics calculations allow a molecular interpretation and open up new avenues in the design and synthesis of future photoswitchable PPI modulators.