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Structural biology and inhibition of the Mtb cell wall glycoconjugates biosynthesis on the membrane

Lu Zhang1, Zihe Rao2

  • 1Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.

Current Opinion in Structural Biology
|August 5, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Mycobacterium tuberculosis cell wall glycoconjugates are vital for survival and drug resistance. Targeting membrane-bound glycosyltransferases and transporters offers promising strategies for new anti-tuberculosis drugs.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Structural Biology
  • Drug Discovery

Background:

  • Glycoconjugates are key components of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) cell wall.
  • These molecules are crucial for Mtb viability, virulence, and drug resistance.
  • Cell wall assembly depends on the Mtb plasma membrane, housing essential enzymes and transporters.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent structural biology findings on mycobacterial glycosyltransferases (GTs) and transporters.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms of action for existing and potential anti-tuberculosis drugs targeting these components.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on structural biology studies.
  • Analysis of drug mechanisms targeting Mtb cell wall biosynthesis pathways.

Main Results:

  • Recent structural data provide insights into the function of mycobacterial GTs and transporters.
  • Understanding these structures aids in designing novel therapeutic agents.
  • Several drug candidates show significant potential in combating tuberculosis.

Conclusions:

  • Structural insights into Mtb GTs and transporters are critical for developing effective anti-TB chemotherapeutics.
  • Targeting these membrane-bound proteins represents a promising avenue for new drug development against tuberculosis.

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