Demonstrating In-Cell Target Engagement Using a Pirin Protein Degradation Probe (CCT367766)

J Med Chem. 2018 Feb 8;61(3):918-933. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.7b01406. Epub 2018 Jan 5.

Abstract

Demonstrating intracellular protein target engagement is an essential step in the development and progression of new chemical probes and potential small molecule therapeutics. However, this can be particularly challenging for poorly studied and noncatalytic proteins, as robust proximal biomarkers are rarely known. To confirm that our recently discovered chemical probe 1 (CCT251236) binds the putative transcription factor regulator pirin in living cells, we developed a heterobifunctional protein degradation probe. Focusing on linker design and physicochemical properties, we generated a highly active probe 16 (CCT367766) in only three iterations, validating our efficient strategy for degradation probe design against nonvalidated protein targets.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cell Line
  • Cell Survival
  • Models, Molecular
  • Prion Proteins / metabolism*
  • Protein Conformation
  • Proteolysis / drug effects*

Substances

  • Prion Proteins