An evaluation of fMLP pocket dimensions and features using formyltetrapeptides

The formyltetrapeptides for-Met-Leu-Leu-Phe-OMe 1, for-Met-Leu-Aib-Phe- OMe 2, for-Met-Leu-AC6C-Phe-OMe 3, for-Met-Leu-Pro-Phe-OMe 4, for-Met-Pro- Pro-Phe-OMe 5, for-Met-Aib-Aib-Phe-OMe 6, for-Met-Pro-Aib-Phe-OMe 7 and for- Met-Aib-Pro-Phe-OMe 8 were synthesized and biologically tested on human neutrophils in an attempt to evaluate the specific receptor pocket dimensions and features. Our results indicate that the shift in the Phe residue to the fourth position in these compounds strongly reduces chemotactic response, but is efficacious in triggering superoxide anion production and lysozyme release (order of potency 3 > 2 > 1 > 4 > 6 > 8 > 5 > 7). The potency of the two latter responses correlates well with the affinity data obtained in binding experiments.