Static and dynamic interactions between GALK enzyme and known inhibitors: Guidelines to design new drugs for galactosemic patients

The search for inhibitors of galactokinase (GALK) enzyme is interesting for their possible therapeutic application capable to alleviate symptoms in people with classic galactosemia. Several high-throughput screenings in the past have found candidate ligands showing a moderate affinity for GALK. Computational analysis of the binding mode of these compounds in comparison to their target protein has been performed only on crystallographic static structures, therefore missing the evolution of the complex during time.In this work, we applied static and dynamics simulations to analyze the interactions between GALK and its potential inhibitors, while taking into account the temporal evolution of the complexes. The collected data allowed us to identify the most important and persistent anchoring points of the known active site and of the newly identified secondary cavity. These data will be of use to increase the specificity and the affinity of a new generation of GALK inhibitors.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Inhibitors of GALK enzyme could alleviate symptoms in galactosemic patients. ► A computational approach is used to analyze GALK–inhibitors complexes. ► Molecular dynamics studies allow to collect more complete information on the system. ► This will promote the development of better drugs for galactosemia.