COMPUTER METHOD UTILIZING FREE ENERGY CALCULATIONS FOR LIGAND DESIGN AND THE PREDICTION OF BINDING TARGETS

摘要

A computer-based method for the identification of binding targets in proteins and other macromolecules. More particularly, the invention includes an algorithm aimed at predicting binding targets in proteins. This algorithm, named Woolford, requires knowledge of the high resolution structure of the protein but no knowledge of the location or identity of natural binding sites or ligands. Binding targets in the protein are identified and classified according to their expected optimal affinities. Binding targets can be located at the protein surface or at internal surfaces that become exposed as a result of partial unfolding, conformational changes, subunit dissociation, or other events. The entire protein is mapped according to the binding potential of its constituent atoms. Once binding targets are identified, optimal ligands are designed and progressively built by the addition of individual atoms that complement structurally and energetically the selected target.