文摘
A novel series of p38 MAP kinase inhibitors with high selectivity for the p38¦Á isoform over the other family members including the highly homologous p38¦Â isoform has been identified. X-ray co-crystallographic studies have revealed an unprecedented kinase binding mode in p38¦Á for representative analogs, 5c and 9d, in which a Leu108/Met109 peptide flip occurs within the p38¦Á hinge region. Based on these findings, a general strategy for the rational design of additional promising p38¦Á isoform selective inhibitors by targeting this novel binding mode is proposed.