Normal-Mode-Analysis–Monitored Energy Minimization Procedure for Generating Small–Molecule Bound Conformations The NEM Procedure
2007

NEM Procedure for Generating Small-Molecule Bound Conformations

Sample size: 22 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Wang Qi, Pang Yuan-Ping

Primary Institution: Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America

Hypothesis

The NEM procedure can generate small-molecule bound conformations from their 2D structures.

Conclusion

The NEM procedure effectively generates small-molecule bound conformations, supporting virtual screening methods that utilize local minimum conformations.

Supporting Evidence

  • All 22 guest-host complex crystal structures were reproduced with guest mass-weighted root mean square deviations of less than 1.0 Å.
  • 100% of the guest bound conformations had conformational strain energies of less than or equal to 3.8 kcal/mol.
  • 22 of the 22 small-molecule complex crystal structures were produced with guest mwRMSDs of less than 1.0 Å.

Takeaway

Scientists created a new method to help small molecules fit better with their partners, which can help in finding new drugs.

Methodology

The study used a normal-mode-analysis–monitored energy minimization procedure to generate local minimum conformations of small molecules.

Limitations

The study focused on small molecules with fewer than five rotatable bonds, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0001025

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication