Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is an enzyme that forms the cross linkages between connective tissues such as collagen and elastin. Research into LOX by our collaborators has found that an upregulation occurs in enzymatic activity when in the presence of cancer cells leading to a metastasis of the cells in the affected area. There have been several compounds that have been found to have inhibiting abilities of the enzyme one of which being β-aminopropionitrile (BAPN). However, this compound has been found to be cytotoxic when directly administered to the body’s cells. The goal of this project is to explore the mechanism of action taken by the enzyme through the creation of various small molecule inhibitors containing the β-aminopropionitrile group attached that are capable of limiting LOX expression without the cytotoxic effects.<br/>The targeted inhibitors for synthesis include various compounds with heterocyclic rings that are hypothesized to have the capability of limiting LOX expression while being soluble under physiological conditions. In hopes to achieve these goals, pyridine-containing heterocyclics with BAPN derivatives were prepared from utilizing the process of reductive amination with 2-picoline borane. These products are being purified and yields will be determined. Future developments to be made in this project include the development of other heterocyclic compounds with an increased solubility in physiological conditions and screening of the inhibitors to determine effectiveness in limiting LOX expression.

Synthesis of pyridine based small molecule inhibitors to limit the expression of lysyl oxidase

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.