Pseudodipeptide Inhibitors of Protein Farnesyltransferase
摘要:
A series of pseudodipeptide amides are described that inhibit Ras protein farnesyltransferase (PFTase). These inhibitors are truncated versions of the C-terminal tetrapeptide (CAAX motif) of Ras that serves as the signal sequence for PFTase-catalyzed protein farnesylation. In contrast to CAAX peptidomimetics previously reported, these inhibitors do not have a C-terminal carboxyl moiety, yet they inhibit farnesylation in vitro at <100 nM. Despite the absence of the X residue in the CAAX motif, which normally directs prenylation specificity, these pseudodipeptides are greater than 100-fold selective for PFTase over type 1 protein geranylgeranyltransferase.
The present invention includes methods for treatment and prophylaxis of eye disorders and injuries, particularly treatment and prophylaxis of ocular neovascularization and disorders, especially a vasculopathy that affects retinal or chorodial vessels. The methods of the invention in general comprise administration of a therapeutically effective amount of a compound that inhibits farnesyl-protein transferase to a subject suffering from or susceptible to ocular neovascularization or associated disorder.