Theoretical study of the role of boron-nitrogen dative bonds in the physiological action of boronated compounds

Some boronated molecules have shown surprising physiological action; howeve r, the mode of action of these compounds is not understood. Our hypothesis is that the boron moiety is attracted to Lewis base sites on an enzyme and the resulting interaction causes an inhibition of the physiological pathway . To study this problem, quantum mechanical calculations of boron-nitrogen bond dissociation energies for 12 molecules have been calculated and compar ed with physiological activities including anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-neo plastic behavior. Results of linear correlation analysis between bond disso ciation energy and physiological action have shown evidence that our hypoth esis has merit. Possible locations of enzyme inhibition by boronated compou nds are inferred. In addition, structural and energetic features of boronat ed molecules, including intramolecular electrostatic interactions and Lewis acidity, are discussed.