Structural determinants in the binding of BB2 receptor ligands: In silico, X-ray and NMR studies in PD176252 analogues

Background: The mammalian bombesin receptor family comprises three G proteincoupled receptors: the neuromedin B receptor, the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (BB2), and the bombesin receptor subtype 3. BB2 receptor plays a role in gastrointestinal functions; however, at present the role of this subtype in physiological and pathological conditions is unknown due to the lack of specific binders for all subclasses of bombesin receptors. Results: Here, we present a study focused on the properties of the peptoid bombesin antagonist called PD176252, and other structural analogues with the aim to elucidate causes of their different affinity towards the BB2 receptor. Conclusion: By means of computational techniques, based on QSAR, docking and homology building, supported by experimental data (X-ray diffraction and NMR spectroscopy) fresh insights on binding modes of this class of biological targets were achieved.