suramin binding

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Binding to suramin, a naphthalenesulfonic acid compound which is used in the treatment of diseases caused by trypanosomes and worms. [GOC:jl, Wikipedia:Suramin]

Suramin is a polysulfonated naphthylurea derivative that acts as a potent inhibitor of a variety of biological processes, including enzyme activity, signal transduction, and cell growth. Its molecular function primarily revolves around its ability to bind to and interfere with the activity of various protein targets.

One of the key mechanisms of suramin binding is its interaction with negatively charged molecules and sites, such as sulfates, phosphates, and carboxylates. This characteristic allows it to bind to a wide range of protein targets, including growth factors, enzymes, and receptors.

For instance, suramin has been shown to bind to and inhibit the activity of several kinases, such as the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and the platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR). This inhibition occurs through competitive binding to the ATP-binding site of these kinases, thereby preventing their phosphorylation activity and downstream signaling pathways.

Furthermore, suramin can bind to and interfere with the function of other important proteins involved in cell growth and proliferation. For example, it can bind to and inhibit the activity of the fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) and the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), which are critical for angiogenesis and tumor growth.

Beyond its interaction with receptor tyrosine kinases, suramin can also bind to and inhibit the activity of other enzymes, including trypanosome enzymes like trypanothione reductase and trypanosome RNA polymerase. This inhibitory action is attributed to its binding to the active site of these enzymes, effectively blocking their catalytic activity.

In addition to its direct binding to protein targets, suramin can also form complexes with other molecules, such as heparin, which enhances its affinity and specificity for certain proteins.

In summary, the molecular function of suramin binding is multifaceted and involves its interaction with various protein targets, including kinases, growth factor receptors, and other enzymes. This interaction disrupts their activity, leading to the inhibition of cell growth, signaling pathways, and other biological processes. The binding mechanisms involve electrostatic interactions with negatively charged residues on protein targets, as well as the formation of complexes with other molecules.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (16)