Pliability in the m6A-Binding Region Extends Druggability of YTH Domains

J Chem Inf Model. 2024 Mar 11;64(5):1682-1690. doi: 10.1021/acs.jcim.4c00051. Epub 2024 Feb 28.

Abstract

Epitranscriptomic mRNA modifications affect gene expression, with their altered balance detected in various cancers. YTHDF proteins contain the YTH reader domain recognizing the m6A mark on mRNA and represent valuable drug targets. Crystallographic structures have been determined for all three family members; however, discrepancies are present in the organization of the m6A-binding pocket. Here, we present new crystallographic structures of the YTH domain of YTHDF1, accompanied by computational studies, showing that this domain can exist in different stable conformations separated by a significant energetic barrier. During the transition, additional conformations are explored, with peculiar druggable pockets appearing and offering new opportunities for the design of YTH-interfering small molecules.

MeSH terms

  • Molecular Conformation
  • Pliability
  • RNA, Messenger / chemistry
  • RNA, Messenger / metabolism
  • RNA-Binding Proteins* / chemistry
  • RNA-Binding Proteins* / genetics
  • RNA-Binding Proteins* / metabolism

Substances

  • RNA-Binding Proteins
  • RNA, Messenger