Insight of Natural Compounds Halimane Diterpenoids against <i>Mycobacterium tuberculosis</i>: Virtual Screening, DFT, Drug-Likeness, and Molecular Dynamics Approach

Abstract

In the purpose to design novel antituberculosis (anti-TB) drugs agents against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), we have built a molecular library around 42 Halimane Diterpenoids isolated from natural sources. Two Mtb enzymes drug targets (Mtb Mycothiol S-transferase and Mtb Homoserine transacetylase) have been adopted. The pharmacological potential was investigated through molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, density functional theory (gas phase and water) and ADMET analysis. Our results indicate that (2R,5R,6S)-1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8-octahydro-5-((E)-5-hydroxy-3-methylpent-3-enyl)-1,1,5,6-tetramethylnaphtha-lene-2-ol (compound 20) has displays higher docking score with each of the selected drug targets. In addition, this molecule exhibits a satisfactory drug potential activity and a good chemical reactivity. Its improved kinetic stability in the Mtb Mycothiol S-transferase enzyme reflects its suitability as a novel inhibitor of Mtb growth. This molecule has displayed a good absorption potential. Our results also show that its passive passage of the intestinal permeability barrier is more effective than that of first-line treatments (ethambutol, isoniazid). In the same way, this anti-TB druglikeness has shown to be able to cross the blood brain barrier.