Jianping Cai

DNA Compatible Multistep Synthesis and Applications to DNA Encoded Libraries

Complex mixtures of DNA encoded small molecules may be readily interrogated via high-throughput sequencing. These DNA encoded libraries (DELs) are commonly used to discover molecules that interact with pharmaceutically relevant proteins. The chemical diversity displayed by the library is key to successful discovery of potent, novel, and drug-like chemical matter. The small molecule moieties of DELs are generally synthesized though a multistep process, and each chemical step is accomplished while it is simultaneously attached to an encoding DNA oligomer. Hence, library chemical diversity is often limited to DNA compatible synthetic reactions. Herein, protocols for 24 reactions are provided that have been optimized for high-throughput production of DELs. These protocols detail the multistep synthesis of benzimidazoles, imidazolidinones, quinazolinones, isoindolinones, thiazoles, and imidazopyridines. Additionally, protocols are provided for a diverse range of useful chemical reactions including BOC deprotection (under pH neutral conditions), carbamylation, and Sonogashira coupling. Last, step-by-step protocols for synthesizing functionalized DELs from trichloronitropyrimidine and trichloropyrimidine scaffolds are detailed.

Identification of novel, potent and selective inhibitors of Polo-like kinase 1.

A series of pyrimidodiazepines was identified as potent Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) inhibitors. The synthesis and SAR are discussed. The lead compound 7 (RO3280) has potent inhibitory activity against PLK1, good selectivity against other kinases, and excellent in vitro cellular potency. It showed strong antitumor activity in xenograft mouse models.