Structure-Guided Conformational Restriction Leading to High-Affinity, Selective, and Cell-Active Tetrahydroisoquinoline-Based Noncovalent Keap1-Nrf2 Inhibitors.

Inhibition of the protein-protein interaction between Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) has been recognized as an attractive approach for treating oxidative stress-related diseases. Here, we present a new series of noncovalent Keap1-Nrf2 inhibitors developed by a conformational restriction strategy of our fluorenone-based compounds previously identified by fragment-based drug discovery. The design was guided by X-ray cocrystal structures, and the subsequent optimization process aimed at improving affinity, cellular activity, and metabolic stability.

Substrate recognition principles for the PP2A-B55 protein phosphatase.

The PP2A-B55 phosphatase regulates a plethora of signaling pathways throughout eukaryotes. How PP2A-B55 selects its substrates presents a severe knowledge gap. By integrating AlphaFold modeling with comprehensive high-resolution mutational scanning, we show that α helices in substrates bind B55 through an evolutionary conserved mechanism.

Substrate recognition principles for the PP2A-B55 protein phosphatase.

The PP2A-B55 phosphatase regulates a plethora of signaling pathways throughout eukaryotes. How PP2A-B55 selects its substrates presents a severe knowledge gap. By integrating AlphaFold modelling with comprehensive high resolution mutational scanning, we show that α-helices in substrates bind B55 through an evolutionary conserved mechanism.

and Evaluation of Pellotine: A Hypnotic Alkaloid.

Quality of life is often reduced in patients with sleep-wake disorders. Insomnia is commonly treated with benzodiazepines, despite their well-known side effects. Pellotine (), a alkaloid, has been reported to have short-acting sleep-inducing properties in humans.

The Alkaloids from and Other "False Peyotes".

Commonly, false peyote refers to . However, several other unrelated cacti go by this colloquial name. They either resemble "true" peyote, , or are found in similar habitats.