Design, Synthesis and Testing of Novel Inhibitors of Cell Adhesion

The Selectin family of proteins comprises three carbohydrate binding proteins (E, P and L) involved in cell adhesion events1. In response to inflammatory stimuli, these proteins play a crucial role in the recognition of sialyl Lewis X (sLeX) and related carbohydrates present on the surface of neutrophils. Following recognition and binding the white blood cells are free to migrate to the sites of injury and infection2. In pathogenic states this sequence of events can lead to pain and inflammation. Blocking the binding of sLeX could potentially be of benefit in the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders such as, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, psoriasis, IBD etc.