Synthesis and Development of Trefoil Factor Peptides

Division Of Basic Sciences - Nci

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Abstract

Trefoil factor family peptides (TFF1, TFF2, and TFF3) are key players in protecting, maintaining, and repairing the gastrointestinal tract and in signaling pathways in breast cancer.. Accordingly, they have the therapeutic potential to treat or prevent a variety of gastrointestinal disorders associated with mucosal damage. TFF peptides share a conserved motif, including three disulfide bonds that stabilize a well-defined three-loop-structure reminiscent of a trefoil. Although multiple functions have been described for TFF peptides, their mechanisms at the molecular level remain poorly understood. Our work is focused on the chemical synthesis of members of the TFF to overcome the recognised bottleneck of synthetic production of this peptide family. This allows us to evaluate putative TFF receptors and protein partners and their importance in the therapeutic potential of these peptides in gastrointestinal disorders where altered mucosal biology plays a crucial role. Our research aims to better understand this peptide family and its therapeutic potential for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.