Protein Surface Recognition

A new perspective on the design of molecular therapeutics is emerging. This new strategy emphasizes the rational complementation of functionality along extended patches of a protein surface with the aim of inhibiting protein/protein interactions. The successful development of compounds able to inhibit these interactions offers a unique chance to selectively intervene in a large number of key cellular processes related to human disease. <p><i>Protein Surface Recognition</i> presents a detailed treatment of this strategy, with topics including:</p> <ul> <li>an extended survey of protein-protein interactions that are key players in human disease and biology and the potential for therapeutics derived from this new perspective</li> <li>the fundamental physical issues that surround protein-protein interactions that must be considered when designing ligands for protein surfaces</li> <li>examples of protein surface-small molecule interactions, including treatments of protein-natural product interactions, protein-interface peptides, and rational approaches to protein surface recognition from model to biological systems</li> <li>a survey of techniques that will be integral to the discovery of new small molecule protein surface binders, from high throughput synthesis and screening techniques to <i>in silico</i> and <i>in vitro</i> methods for the discovery of novel protein ligands.</li> </ul> <p><i>Protein Surface Recognition</i> provides an intellectual “tool-kit” for investigators in medicinal and bioorganic chemistry looking to exploit this emerging paradigm in drug discovery.</p>