Exploring the copper binding ability of Mets7 hCtr-1 protein domain and His7 derivative: An insight in Michael addition catalysis

Mets7is a methionine-rich motif present in hCtr-1 transporter that is involved in copper cellular trafficking. Its ability to bind Cu(I) was recently exploited to develop metallopeptide catalysts for Henry condensation. Here, the catalytic activity ofMets7-Cu(I)complex in Michael addition reactions has been evaluated. Furthermore,His7peptide, in which Met residues have been substituted with His ones, was also prepared. This substitution allowedHis7to coordinate Cu (II), with the obtainment of a stable turn conformation as evicted by CD experiments.His7-Cu (II)proved also to be a better catalyst thanMets7-Cu(I)in the addition reaction. In particular, when the substrate was the (E)-1-phenyl-3-(pyridin-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one, a conversion of 71% and a significative 58% of e.e. was observed.

Automated summary

The study found that Mets7-Cu(I) has catalytic activity in Michael addition reactions, but His7-Cu(II) performed better, especially in the reaction with (E)-1-phenyl-3-(pyridin-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one substrate, showing a high conversion rate and significant enantioselectivity.