The molybdenum cofactor consists, inter alia, of a pterin component termed molybdopterin complexed with molybdenum. It appears to be a universal cofactor for a wide variety of molybdenum-containing enzymes, acting as a link to bind the enzyme subunits to form an active enzyme, and functioning as an electron carrier. Human genetic deficiency in cofactor synthesis is a condition characterized by severe neuropathy and early death. Furthermore, the recent finding that some 5% of all asthmatics are sensitive to SO2 and bisulfite suggests that these susceptible individuals might have a deficiency of sulfite oxidase, and enzyme totally dependent on the molybdenum cofactor for its activity. It is the aim of this proposal to develop unequivocal synthetic approaches to molybdopterin its biosynthetic precursor(s), and to the cofactor itself. This work will provide critical structural and stereochemical information on molybdopterin, and will make possible a study of the possible therapeutic utility of synthetic molybdenum cofactor.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
2R01DK035642-04
Application #
3233924
Study Section
Bio-Organic and Natural Products Chemistry Study Section (BNP)
Project Start
1985-09-01
Project End
1992-03-31
Budget Start
1989-04-01
Budget End
1990-03-31
Support Year
4
Fiscal Year
1989
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Princeton University
Department
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
002484665
City
Princeton
State
NJ
Country
United States
Zip Code
08544