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 GDP-L-fucose synthase 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 GDP-L-fucose synthase 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 GDP-L-fucose synthase, 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 GDP-L-fucose synthase. 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 GDP-L-fucose synthase. 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 GDP-L-fucose synthase 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.
GDP-L-fucose synthase
partner:
Reaxense
upacc:
Q13630
UPID:
FCL_HUMAN
Alternative names:
GDP-4-keto-6-deoxy-D-mannose-3,5-epimerase-4-reductase; Protein FX; Red cell NADP(H)-binding protein; Short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase family 4E member 1
Alternative UPACC:
Q13630; B2R8Y7; D3DWK5; Q567Q9; Q9UDG7
Background:
GDP-L-fucose synthase, also known as GDP-4-keto-6-deoxy-D-mannose-3,5-epimerase-4-reductase, plays a crucial role in the NADP-dependent conversion of GDP-4-dehydro-6-deoxy-D-mannose to GDP-fucose. This process involves an epimerase and a reductase reaction, highlighting its importance in cellular functions. The protein is also referred to as Protein FX, Red cell NADP(H)-binding protein, and Short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase family 4E member 1, reflecting its diverse roles and activities within biological systems.
Therapeutic significance:
Understanding the role of GDP-L-fucose synthase could open doors to potential therapeutic strategies. Its pivotal function in the synthesis of GDP-fucose, a donor substrate for fucosyltransferases, implicates it in various biological processes, including cell signaling and immune response. Exploring its mechanisms further could unveil novel approaches to modulating these pathways for therapeutic benefit.