Structure-activity relationship of flavin analogs that target the FMN riboswitch

ABSTRACT The flavin mononucleotide (FMN) riboswitch is an emerging target for the development of novel RNA-targeting antibiotics. We previously discovered an FMN derivative —5FDQD— that protects mice against diarrhea-causing Clostridium difficile bacteria. Here, we present the structure-based drug design strategy that led to the discovery of this fluoro-phenyl derivative with antibacterial properties. This approach involved the following stages: (1) structural analysis of all available free and bound FMN riboswitch structures; (2) design, synthesis and purification of derivatives; (3) in vitro testing for productive binding using two chemical probing methods; (4) in vitro transcription termination assays; (5) resolution of the crystal structures of the FMN riboswitch in complex with the most mature candidates. In the process, we delineated principles for productive binding to this riboswitch, thereby demonstrating the effectiveness of a coordinated structure-guided approach to designing drugs against RNA. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT Exploring the chemical structure landscape of FMN riboswitch binders.