Disrupting Pheromone Signaling in Insects: Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of an Inhibitor
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Sex pheromones mediate mate recognition in insects through interactions with pheromone-binding proteins (PBPs). Targeting this pathway with pheromone analogs offers a species-specific approach to pest management. Here, we report the design, synthesis, and evaluation of a pheromone analog, (6 E,11 Z )-heptadeca-6,11-dien-1-yl acetate as an inhibitor of Antheraea polyphemus PBP1 (ApolPBP1). Molecular docking predicted potential binding orientations and interactions within the pocket. Fluorescence-based binding assays revealed a 4-fold higher dissociation constant, and 2D [ 1 H, 15 N] HSQC NMR titrations confirmed reduced affinity, with ApolPBP1 transitioning to the bound state only at higher analog concentrations. Overall, these findings highlight the sensitivity of PBPs to subtle structural modifications in their ligands and emphasize the importance of preserving key molecular interactions for effective binding.
Source: ACS Omega
Institutions: Oklahoma State University, The University of Texas at Austin
Language: English
Subfield: Insect Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,935
OpenAlex ID: W7124444383