Chemical and biological dynamics of natural pterins

Abstract

Pteridine compounds are heterocyclic compounds that contribute to various processes in living organisms. Pterin is a representative derivative, and its analogs are widely used in biological systems. The two imine bonds within the pteridine ring confer electron donor–acceptor properties, and the oxidized form exhibits fluorescence because of its π-conjugated system. Owing to these structural and electronic features, pterins perform a variety of physiological functions, including serving as cofactors, pigments, and signaling molecules. To date, studies on the dynamics of pterins have been conducted independently from chemical and biochemical perspectives; thus, the resulting knowledge has not been sufficiently systematized. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the dynamics of naturally occurring pterins by systematically integrating existing chemical and biochemical data.