AI-ACCELERATED DRUG DISCOVERY
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 Septin-9 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 Septin-9 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 Septin-9, 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 Septin-9. 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 Septin-9. 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 Septin-9 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.
Septin-9
partner:
Reaxense
upacc:
Q9UHD8
UPID:
SEPT9_HUMAN
Alternative names:
MLL septin-like fusion protein MSF-A; Ovarian/Breast septin; Septin D1
Alternative UPACC:
Q9UHD8; A8K2V3; B3KPM0; B4DTL9; B4E0N2; B4E274; B7Z654; Q96QF3; Q96QF4; Q96QF5; Q9HA04; Q9UG40; Q9Y5W4
Background:
Septin-9, known by alternative names such as MLL septin-like fusion protein MSF-A and Ovarian/Breast septin, is a filament-forming cytoskeletal GTPase. It is implicated in crucial cellular processes, including cytokinesis, potentially, and the internalization of intracellular pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes and Shigella flexneri. Its role in cell division and pathogen response highlights its significance in maintaining cellular integrity.
Therapeutic significance:
Septin-9 is directly associated with Hereditary neuralgic amyotrophy (HNA), a condition characterized by recurrent episodes of severe pain and muscle weakness. Understanding the role of Septin-9 in HNA could pave the way for innovative therapeutic strategies targeting the underlying genetic variants to alleviate or prevent the debilitating symptoms of this disease.
