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Crystal structure of the thioesterase domain of human fatty acid synthase inhibited by orlistat

Journal Article · · Nature Structural and Molecular Biology
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1038/nsmb1265· OSTI ID:929922

Human fatty acid synthase (FAS) is uniquely expressed at high levels in many tumor types. Pharmacological inhibition of FAS therefore represents an important therapeutic opportunity. The drug Orlistat, which has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, inhibits FAS, induces tumor cell-specific apoptosis and inhibits the growth of prostate tumor xenografts. We determined the 2.3-{angstrom}-resolution crystal structure of the thioesterase domain of FAS inhibited by Orlistat. Orlistat was captured in the active sites of two thioesterase molecules as a stable acyl-enzyme intermediate and as the hydrolyzed product. The details of these interactions reveal the molecular basis for inhibition and suggest a mechanism for acyl-chain length discrimination during the FAS catalytic cycle. Our findings provide a foundation for the development of new cancer drugs that target FAS.

Research Organization:
Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) National Synchrotron Light Source
Sponsoring Organization:
Doe - Office Of Science
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-98CH10886
OSTI ID:
929922
Report Number(s):
BNL--80513-2008-JA
Journal Information:
Nature Structural and Molecular Biology, Journal Name: Nature Structural and Molecular Biology Journal Issue: 8 Vol. 14
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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