Asperentin B, a New Inhibitor of the Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B.

In the frame of studies on secondary metabolites produced by fungi from deep-sea environments we have investigated inhibitors of enzymes playing key roles in signaling cascades of biochemical pathways relevant for the treatment of diseases. Here we report on a new inhibitor of the human protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), a target in the signaling pathway of insulin. A new asperentin analog is produced by an strain isolated from the sediment of the deep Mediterranean Sea. Asperentin B () contains an additional phenolic hydroxy function at C-6 and exhibits an IC value against PTP1B of 2 μM in vitro, which is six times stronger than the positive control, suramin. Interestingly, asperentin () did not show any inhibition of this enzymatic activity. Asperentin B () is discussed as possible therapeutic agents for type 2 diabetes and sleeping sickness.