In vitro biological activity and structural analysis of 2,4-diamino-5-(2′-arylpropargyl)pyrimidine inhibitors of Candida albicans

In order to develop new antifungal agents effective against two species of Candida, we have designed a series of dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) inhibitors. Here, we explore the structure–activity relationships of these inhibitors toward Candida albicans DHFR by evaluating enzyme inhibition, antifungal activity and toxicity to mammalian cells. Analysis of docked complexes of the enzyme and inhibitors yields the structural basis of relative potency. The meta-biphenyl series of this class exhibits the greatest enzyme inhibition, selectivity and antifungal activity.

A comparison of the active sites of dihydrofolate reductase from Candida albicans (blue), Candida glabrata (green) and human (red) with a modeled bound inhibitor of C. albicans and C. glabrata.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide