Molecular Cloaking Devices for Manipulation of Cysteine Post-Translational Modifications

University Of Florida, Gainesville FL

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

Project Summary Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins are involved in virtually all cellular signaling pathways. Pharmacological intervention in these events is an important strategy for drug development. In this project, we propose to establish a novel platform for the discovery of covalent inhibitors of cysteine post-translational modifications, in particular, the prenylation of the C-termini of H-Ras and K-Ras. These events are critical for oncogenic mutants of these proteins to drive cell uncontrolled growth and division. In contrast to typical strategies for blocking PTMs, we will screen for non-peptidic macrocycles that bind covalently to the modified epitope on the substrate protein (H-Ras or K-Ras), rather than compounds that target the modifying enzyme. In this way, we believe it will be possible to manipulate single PTMs with unprecedented selectivity.