Chemistry and biological function of biopterin cofactor and related compounds.

Biopterin cofactor [(6 R) -5, 6, 7, 8-tetrahydrobiopterin] in biological samples was measured by radioimmunoassay of biopterin. The results showed that this compound deeply concerned with neurological diseases, such as Parkinson disease. The structure of biopterin cofactor was determined by CD spectra and X-ray crystalographic analysis. Synthesis of biopterin cofactor was achieved by stereoselective hydrogenation of biopterin. Biopterin and related pteridines were synthesized by condensation of a pyrimidine derivative whith a sugar or an epoxyaldehyde. Some natural occurring pteridines were synthesized by the introduction of side chains to pteridine ring under radical conditions. Quinonoid dihydrobiopterin was prepared by oxidation of biopterin cofactor, and decomposed through different pathways depending on the acidity of solution. By using various pteridine derivatives, the relationship between structure and biological activity was studied.