Scientists target critical interface essential for cancer cell survival

Proteins control almost all of the vital processes in our cells. If they do not work properly, if there is too much or not enough, it can lead to the development of various diseases, including cancer. Associated proteins are therefore also important targets for drug discovery in biomedical research.

However, there are a large number of proteins that simply do not provide suitable targets for a conventional active ingredient. That’s why scientists at UDE’s Collaborative Research Center 1093 are developing unusual small molecules called supramolecular ligands that can bind precisely to their surface.

Molecules block the pivot site of the protein

Recently, the team of scientists led by Professor Shirley Knauer, Professor Elsa-Sanchez-Garcia and Professor Thomas Schrader succeeded in targeting a critical interface important for cancer cell survival with such personalized molecules.

The survivin protein is actually barely found in healthy adult organisms. In cancer cells, however, its production is accelerated. “

Shirley Knauer, professor, University of Duisburg-Essen

Using a custom-made artificial ligand, the scientists were able to cover the exact site of survivin, which is responsible for its activation and transport out of the cell nucleus.

Each protein has a unique three-dimensional structure with a fissured surface that can form loops and niches. Sanchez-Garcia and his team performed computer analyzes of the protein’s surface and found that the important interface sits on an orderly but somewhat dynamic loop. Using this information and further structural analysis, the chemists led by Schrader were able to design the ligand for this particularly difficult surface.