Inhibition of galactosyltransferases by a novel class of donor analogues

J Med Chem. 2012 Mar 8;55(5):2015-24. doi: 10.1021/jm201154p. Epub 2012 Feb 22.

Abstract

Galactosyltransferases (GalT) are important molecular targets in a range of therapeutic areas, including infection, inflammation, and cancer. GalT inhibitors are therefore sought after as potential lead compounds for drug discovery. We have recently discovered a new class of GalT inhibitors with a novel mode of action. In this publication, we describe a series of analogues which provide insights, for the first time, into SAR for this new mode of GalT inhibition. We also report that a new C-glycoside, designed as a chemically stable analogue of the most potent inhibitor in this series, retains inhibitory activity against a panel of GalTs. Initial results from cellular studies suggest that despite their polarity, these sugar-nucleotides are taken up by HL-60 cells. Results from molecular modeling studies with a representative bacterial GalT provide a rationale for the differences in bioactivity observed in this series. These findings may provide a blueprint for the rational development of new GalT inhibitors with improved potency.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bacterial Proteins / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Bacterial Proteins / chemistry
  • Cattle
  • Galactosyltransferases / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Galactosyltransferases / chemistry
  • Glycosides / chemical synthesis*
  • Glycosides / chemistry
  • HL-60 Cells
  • Humans
  • Models, Molecular
  • Neisseria meningitidis / enzymology
  • Structure-Activity Relationship
  • Uridine Diphosphate Galactose / analogs & derivatives*
  • Uridine Diphosphate Galactose / chemical synthesis*
  • Uridine Diphosphate Galactose / chemistry

Substances

  • Bacterial Proteins
  • Glycosides
  • Uridine Diphosphate Galactose
  • Galactosyltransferases