Short protecting-group-free synthesis of 5-acetylsulfanyl-histidines in water: novel precursors of 5-sulfanyl-histidine and its analogues.

The discovery of a non-enzymatic oxidative introduction of sulfur to the 5-position of histidine is reported, by activation with bromine or NBS followed by reaction with thioacetic acid forming novel 5-acetylsulfanyl-histidine. Complementing the previously developed regioselective oxidative S-introduction to the 2-position of histidine by reaction with cysteine, this surprising finding provides straightforward access in multi-gram quantities to naturally occurring 5-sulfanyl-histidine and its N-methylated analogues, including a hitherto unknown regioisomer of l-ergothioneine.

SAR156497, an exquisitely selective inhibitor of aurora kinases.

The Aurora family of serine/threonine kinases is essential for mitosis. Their crucial role in cell cycle regulation and aberrant expression in a broad range of malignancies have been demonstrated and have prompted intensive search for small molecule Aurora inhibitors. Indeed, over 10 of them have reached the clinic as potential anticancer therapies. We report herein the discovery and optimization of a novel series of tricyclic molecules that has led to SAR156497, an exquisitely selective Aurora A, B, and C inhibitor with in vitro and in vivo efficacy. We also provide insights into its mode of binding to its target proteins, which could explain its selectivity.