Non-enzymatic protein templates amide bond formation and provides catalytic turnover

Chem Commun (Camb). 2023 Apr 27;59(35):5241-5244. doi: 10.1039/d3cc00514c.

Abstract

The spatial alignment of functional groups is a central aspect of most catalytic processes. Protein scaffolds with their exceptional molecular recognition properties have evolved into powerful biological catalysts. However, the rational design of artificial enzymes starting from non-catalytic protein domains proved challenging. Herein, we report the use of a non-enzymatic protein as template for amide bond formation. Starting from a protein adaptor domain capable of simultaneously binding to two peptide ligands, we designed a catalytic transfer reaction based on the native chemical ligation. This system was used for the selective labelling of a target protein validating its high chemoselectivity and potential as a novel tool for the selective covalent modification of proteins.

MeSH terms

  • Amides* / chemistry
  • Catalysis
  • Oligonucleotides / chemistry
  • Peptides / chemistry
  • Proteins* / chemistry

Substances

  • Amides
  • Proteins
  • Peptides
  • Oligonucleotides