X-ray structures of human furin in complex with competitive inhibitors

ACS Chem Biol. 2014 May 16;9(5):1113-8. doi: 10.1021/cb500087x. Epub 2014 Apr 1.

Abstract

Furin inhibitors are promising therapeutics for the treatment of cancer and numerous infections caused by bacteria and viruses, including the highly lethal Bacillus anthracis or the pandemic influenza virus. Development and improvement of inhibitors for pharmacological use require a detailed knowledge of the protease's substrate and inhibitor binding properties. Here we present a novel preparation of human furin and the first crystal structures of this enzyme in complex with noncovalent inhibitors. We show the inhibitor exchange by soaking, allowing the investigation of additional inhibitors and substrate analogues. Thus, our work provides a basis for the rational design of furin inhibitors.

Publication types

  • Letter
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Crystallography, X-Ray
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / chemistry*
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Furin / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Furin / chemistry*
  • Furin / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Molecular Docking Simulation
  • Protein Conformation / drug effects

Substances

  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Furin