In silico docking yields small molecule negative allosteric modulators targeting the core of Frizzled 7.

ABSTRACT: Targeting the Frizzled family (FZD_1-10) of WNT receptors pharmacologically has, despite substantial therapeutic potential, proven difficult. Given an almost complete lack of validated, effective small molecules targeting FZDs, no putative ligand binding site has so far been identified. In order to target FZD₇, a potential target for the treatment of intestinal tumors, we combine an approach of adapted docking setups and large molecular library docking screens, identifying compound C407. Applying pharmacological assays, genetically-encoded biosensors, site-directed mutagenesis, cryo-electron microscopy and molecular dynamics simulations, the compound binding site in the core of the seven transmembrane bundle is validated and C407 is confirmed as a negative allosteric m

SUBMITTER: Scharf MM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12705740 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature