Topologically Tunable α‐Helix Mimetics for Targeting Protein–Protein Interactions

T Tae‐Kyung Lee (Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Texas at Dallas Richardson TX 75080 USA) L Luxi Chen C Chia‐Yuan Chen (Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Texas at Dallas Richardson TX 75080 USA) H Henry Neal (Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Texas at Dallas Richardson TX 75080 USA) J Jung‐Mo Ahn (Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Texas at Dallas Richardson TX 75080 USA)

Abstract

Abstract A novel strategy to replicate diverse α‐helical conformations found at the interfaces of protein–protein interactions is developed with a topologically tunable biphenyl scaffold. A set of N,N’‐diphenyl‐4,4′‐biphenyldicarboxamide scaffolds were designed as customizable α‐helix mimetics, capable of reproducing a wide range of helical surfaces that may be difficult to be replicated with previously reported α‐helix mimetics. These scaffolds were evaluated for their capability to mimic the α‐helical BH3 domains of Bcl‐2 family proteins. By modifying the substituents and their positions, both pan‐active and selective inhibitors of anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 family members were developed, each exhibiting distinct binding profiles. This unique approach offers a powerful tool for mimicking naturally occurring α‐helices and distinguishing subtle differences in bound conformations with target proteins.

Article Details

Volume / Issue Vol. 64, Issue 46
Published November 10, 2025
ISSN 1433-7851
Publisher Wiley

Journal Info

Angewandte Chemie International Edition

Wiley

ISSN: 1433-7851 Physical Sciences

Authors (5)

T

Tae‐Kyung Lee

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Texas at Dallas Richardson TX 75080 USA

L

Luxi Chen

C

Chia‐Yuan Chen

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Texas at Dallas Richardson TX 75080 USA

H

Henry Neal

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Texas at Dallas Richardson TX 75080 USA

J

Jung‐Mo Ahn

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Texas at Dallas Richardson TX 75080 USA