Available from Reaxense
This protein is integrated into the Receptor.AI ecosystem as a prospective target with high therapeutic potential. We performed a comprehensive characterization of Protein max including:
1. LLM-powered literature research
Our custom-tailored LLM extracted and formalized all relevant information about the protein from a large set of structured and unstructured data sources and stored it in the form of a Knowledge Graph. This comprehensive analysis allowed us to gain insight into Protein max therapeutic significance, existing small molecule ligands, relevant off-targets, and protein-protein interactions.
Fig. 1. Preliminary target research workflow
2. AI-Driven Conformational Ensemble Generation
Starting from the initial protein structure, we employed advanced AI algorithms to predict alternative functional states of Protein max, including large-scale conformational changes along "soft" collective coordinates. Through molecular simulations with AI-enhanced sampling and trajectory clustering, we explored the broad conformational space of the protein and identified its representative structures. Utilizing diffusion-based AI models and active learning AutoML, we generated a statistically robust ensemble of equilibrium protein conformations that capture the receptor's full dynamic behavior, providing a robust foundation for accurate structure-based drug design.
Fig. 2. AI-powered molecular dynamics simulations workflow
3. Binding pockets identification and characterization
We employed the AI-based pocket prediction module to discover orthosteric, allosteric, hidden, and cryptic binding pockets on the protein’s surface. Our technique integrates the LLM-driven literature search and structure-aware ensemble-based pocket detection algorithm that utilizes previously established protein dynamics. Tentative pockets are then subject to AI scoring and ranking with simultaneous detection of false positives. In the final step, the AI model assesses the druggability of each pocket enabling a comprehensive selection of the most promising pockets for further targeting.
Fig. 3. AI-based binding pocket detection workflow
4. AI-Powered Virtual Screening
Our ecosystem is equipped to perform AI-driven virtual screening on Protein max. With access to a vast chemical space and cutting-edge AI docking algorithms, we can rapidly and reliably predict the most promising, novel, diverse, potent, and safe small molecule ligands of Protein max. This approach allows us to achieve an excellent hit rate and to identify compounds ready for advanced lead discovery and optimization.
Fig. 4. The screening workflow of Receptor.AI
Receptor.AI, in partnership with Reaxense, developed a next-generation technology for on-demand focused library design to enable extensive target exploration.
The focused library for Protein max includes a list of the most effective modulators, each annotated with 38 ADME-Tox and 32 physicochemical and drug-likeness parameters. Furthermore, each compound is shown with its optimal docking poses, affinity scores, and activity scores, offering a detailed summary.
Protein max
partner:
Reaxense
upacc:
P61244
UPID:
MAX_HUMAN
Alternative names:
Class D basic helix-loop-helix protein 4; Myc-associated factor X
Alternative UPACC:
P61244; A6NH73; A8K265; A8K4G4; A8K824; P25912; P52163; Q14803; Q96CY8
Background:
Protein max, also known as Myc-associated factor X, plays a pivotal role in transcription regulation. It forms a DNA-binding protein complex with MYC or MAD, targeting the core sequence 5'-CAC[GA]TG-3'. This interaction can either activate or repress transcription, influenced by the nature of the complex formed. The MYC:MAX complex acts as a transcriptional activator, while the MAD:MAX complex serves as a repressor, potentially through recruitment of a chromatin remodeling complex.
Therapeutic significance:
Pheochromocytoma, a tumor resulting from excessive catecholamine production, has been linked to variants affecting the gene encoding Protein max. Understanding the role of Protein max could open doors to potential therapeutic strategies for this condition, highlighting its significance in disease modulation.