Hot-Spots of Mcl-1 Protein.

Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) control many important physiological processes within human cells. Apoptosis or programmed cell death is closely regulated by pro- and anti-apoptotic signals. Dysregulation of this homeostasis is implicated in tumorigenesis and acquired resistance to treatments. The emerging importance of Mcl-1 protein in chemotherapeutic resistance makes it a high priority therapeutic target. Targeting PPIs associated with Mcl-1 presents many challenges for the design of inhibitors. This review focuses on the characterization of the Mcl-1 hot-spots which are related to four hydrophobic pockets P1–P4 and one major electrostatic interaction. Analysis of structural data highlights the high importance of the P2/P3 pockets for the binding of non-peptide ligands. In order to guide medicinal chemists into making more selective and potent Mcl-1 inhibitors, the Mcl-1 protein is compared to other anti-apoptotic proteins.