National Institutes of Health, a Component of the US Dept. of Health & Human Services

Jung-Eun Park

Terrence R Burke, Jr

Kyung S Lee

Fa Liu

Novel compounds are provided that bind to polo-like kinases through the polo-box domain. In certain embodiments, the novel compounds are PEGylated peptides. The PEGylated peptides in accordance with the invention demonstrate high PBD-binding affinity. In certain embodiments, the PEGylated peptides have also achieved activities in whole cell systems. The invention also provides compounds that bind polo-like kinases through the polo-box domain and possess reduced anionic charge. Further provided are methods of design and/or synthesis of the PEGylated peptides and methods of use thereof. The invention provides methods of use of the compounds and methods of synthesis of the compounds.

Peptide mimetic ligands of polo-like kinase 1 polo box domain and methods of use

Found in various eukaryotic organisms, polo-like kinases (collectively, Plks) are a conserved subfamily of Ser/Thr protein kinases that play critical roles in cell proliferation. Provided herein are compounds that specifically inhibit the activity of Plks, specifically Plk1. Further provided herein are methods for use of the compounds for the treatment of hyperproliferative disorders, particularly cancer. Also provided are uses of the compounds for the preparation of a medicament.

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Bethesda, MD, United States of America

Jung-Eun Park